In 2026, Ghent has 73 events to explore, from pop-up exhibitions in hidden alleyways to major music festivals filling the squares. This historic university city knows how to perfectly blend its medieval architecture with a really creative, modern edge. You’ll discover everything from quirky film screenings and street theatre performances to bustling market feasts, often happening along its picturesque canals or in ancient guild houses.
The atmosphere during events is always friendly and unpretentious, fuelled by a large student population that keeps things fresh and energetic. You’ll easily find travellers from all corners of the globe gathering for a craft beer by the waterfront or heading to an impromptu concert, making it super easy to connect and make new mates. Staying in hostels helps you stretch your budget and keeps you right in the centre of the action, ready for whatever Ghent throws at you in 2026.
Top Events Ghent, Belgium
Ghent Events you can’t miss in 2026
Medieval backdrops, canal side gigs, lively student nights
Best things to do in Ghent
Festival

Film Fest Gent
7-18 Oct, 2026
Ghent, Belgium
Festival

Odegand
12 Sep, 2026
Ghent, Belgium
Festival

Patersholfeesten
14-17 Aug, 2026
Ghent, Belgium
Concert

AZ
8 Sep, 2026
Ghent, Belgium
Concert

Daft Funk Live: A Tribute to Daft Punk
12 Sep, 2026
Ghent, Belgium
Concert

Fear Factory
11 Sep, 2026
Ghent, Belgium
Festival

De Opstand van de Gevels
12 Sep, 2026
Ghent, Belgium
Parade

The Uprising of the Facades: The Caravan
12 Sep, 2026
Ghent, Belgium
Performance show

Carmen
11 Sep - 10 Dec, 2026
Ghent, Belgium
Performance show

Bart De Pauw
30 Sep - 5 Oct, 2026
Ghent, Belgium
Concert

Laura Tesoro
12 Sep, 2026
Ghent, Belgium