Flowertime: this is not a Town Hall!

For the 2023 edition, 23 teams of floral artists pay tribute to Belgian surrealism

From 11 to 15 August, some of the world's finest floral artists will transform fifteen rooms in the Town Hall to pay tribute to another Belgian speciality: Surrealism and its great masters. An enchantment of fragrance and colour to inspire the imagination in the most beautiful setting you could dream of: the Grand-Place in Brussels.

Every two years, alternating with the Flower Carpet on the Grand-Place, the Flowertime biennial invites lovers of flowers and of Brussels to (re)discover its splendid Town Hall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with the whole of the Grand-Place.

Floral capital of Europe

Since its creation in 2013, the event has become an unmissable celebration for architecture and flower lovers everywhere, whatever their age. Jointly organised by the Tapis de Fleurs de Bruxelles non-profit association and Floraliën, Flowertime 2023 will once again crown Brussels as the floral capital of Europe.

Flowertime returns for its fifth edition from 11 to 15 August 2023 with a new Belgian theme: surrealism.

"Without a doubt, Brussels stands as the birthplace and global hub of surrealism. This year, the city is reviving this rich legacy through Flowertime. With the participation of talented floral artists from all corners of the world, the iconic Town Hall will undergo a breathtaking transformation. Every nook and cranny of this architectural marvel will be adorned with exquisite floral arrangements and botanical creations, turning it into an extraordinary, oversized bouquet that will captivate both young and old alike. It's a splendid way to commemorate the 125th anniversary of Magritte's birth," explains Delphine Houba, President of the non-profit association Tapis de Fleurs and alderwoman for Culture, Tourism and Big Events in the capital.

During a dreamlike, flower-filled tour, which lasts around 45 minutes, visitors will have the opportunity to discover this gem of Gothic architecture from a different perspective. It will thrill the senses, and also question our perception of the world around us.

More rooms in the Town Hall and more flowers in Brussels

Flowertime, an internationally acclaimed event, attracts the best florists and their breathtaking creations, to dazzle visitors. A different theme is chosen for each edition, making every one unique.

This year, 23 teams of florists from Brussels, Wallonia, Flanders and abroad (France, Portugal, Ukraine, Indonesia, etc.) compete in terms of their boldness, talent and imagination to decorate the Town Hall. So much so that this year the Flowertime route has been extended to include two more rooms: the Mayor's Office and the provisional Council Chamber. In keeping with the surrealist theme, the Grand-Place will also feature a 'monumental' surprise, which will thrill the many visitors waiting to discover the magnificent floral decorations inside the Town Hall.

It's the combination of a historic location and the diversity of styles and perspectives that makes Flowertimeso fascinating.

"This year, the Flowertime florists have a unique opportunity to express their creativity and push the boundaries of floral design. Surrealism is an artistic movement known for its unusual, dreamlike images and for combining different elements in surprising and sometimes even bewildering ways. The florists have applied this concept to their floral creations, creating a captivating and enchanting atmosphere," explains Pieter Toebaert, General Manager of Floraliën and Artistic Director of Flowertime.

The Flowertime - View Tower Experience spectacle

By happy coincidence, the capital's events unit (Brussels Major Events) is launching two other events at the same time, which will delight tourists, botanists, Brussels residents and lovers of all things beautiful. First of all, the third edition of Brussels in Bloom, a free flower trail created during the pandemic, which leads intrigued participants through the streets surrounding the Grand-Place from 1 to 15 August.

Although totally independent, the two events will nevertheless share the inner courtyard of the Town Hall, which will pay tribute to perhaps the most famous of Belgium's Surrealists: René Magritte.

And that's not all! During Flowertime, you will be able to access the Town Hall Tower and admire a 360-degree panoramic view of Brussels. To view the panorama, you have to climb a 200-step spiral staircase from the courtyard of the Town Hall. You will be rewarded with an incredible view of the Grand-Place and the whole city. The View Tower Experience is a unique opportunity to admire Brussels from an exceptional vantage point! The View Tower Experience is available separately or as a combi ticket that also includes Flowertime.

To make sure you don't miss out on this surreal floral experience, plan your visit:

Opening hours

11 August: 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. (last admission at 5.30 p.m.)
12 to 15 August: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. (last admission at 6.30 p.m.)

Price: €12 on site - €10 in advance (free for children under 10)

Available in advance on www.flowertime.be and in Visit Brussels shops
On sale on the day at the entrance to the Town Hall
Group price from 15 people: contact [email protected]
Group tickets available: Flowertime + View Tower Experience: €18 on site - €16 in advance

Find all the information you need on www.flowertime.be