March is the start of spring in Belgium, and although temperatures can still be quite cold, excitement for the end of winter is in the air. A major reason to visit Belgium this month is to attend a traditional Lent parade, such as the centuries-old Carnival of Binche in French-speaking Wallonia. Flower lovers are also in luck, with the first spring blossoms appearing. Here’s where to go and what to do in Belgium in March.
Weather in Belgium During March
March signifies a transitional period in Belgium, marking the conclusion of winter’s grip and the tentative arrival of spring. While temperatures remain relatively chilly, a noticeable shift occurs as daylight hours extend, and the first delicate blooms of the season begin to emerge, hinting at the warmer days to come. This makes March a fascinating time to experience Belgium’s evolving landscape.
Despite its compact size, Belgium exhibits diverse climatic conditions across its coastal, inland, and highland regions. Flanders, the Flemish-speaking northern part of Belgium, enjoys a comparatively milder climate due to its coastal location. This maritime influence helps to moderate temperature fluctuations, preventing extreme cold or excessive heat. In contrast, the Ardennes, a hilly and forested region in southern Belgium, experiences the coldest temperatures, with frequent snowfall and dense fog during the winter months. Brussels, the nation’s capital, situated inland, displays a more pronounced continental climate compared to coastal cities such as Bruges or Antwerp. In Brussels, visitors can anticipate an average high temperature of around 50°F (10°C) and a low of approximately 39°F (4°C). This variance in climate across different regions adds another layer of interest to exploring Belgium in March.
Crowds, Costs, and Considerations for March Travel
Generally, March falls within the low season for tourism in Belgium, offering a quieter and more budget-friendly experience for travelers. However, it’s important to note that the timing of Lent and Easter can influence visitor numbers, potentially creating busier periods. If you’re traveling on a budget, March presents an excellent opportunity to secure more affordable accommodation. You may discover attractive deals on hotels in popular destinations like Ghent, Bruges, or Antwerp, which tend to be significantly more expensive and heavily booked during the peak summer months. Despite being the off-season, most cultural institutions and attractions within the cities remain open and operational, ensuring a fulfilling travel experience.
If Easter or Lent coincides with your visit in March, it’s advisable to anticipate a surge in tourism, potentially impacting availability and pricing. The renowned Binche Carnival, held near the southern city of Charleroi, draws significant crowds due to its historical significance as one of Europe’s oldest street carnivals. This vibrant celebration takes place during the three days leading up to Lent, with its date fluctuating between February and March. If attending this lively festival is on your itinerary, booking accommodation well in advance is highly recommended. Similarly, if your travels coincide with the Easter holiday, be prepared for potential closures as it is a public holiday weekend.
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Where to Explore in Belgium During March
Whether you are captivated by historical narratives or simply enjoy immersing yourself in the atmosphere of a lively street festival, Binche offers a compelling destination for travelers with diverse interests during the month of March (although the precise timing of the festival depends on the dates of Lent and Easter, potentially falling in February). This town, nestled in southern Belgium near the city of Charleroi, proudly hosts one of Europe’s most enduring street carnivals, with origins tracing back to the Middle Ages. Expect captivating parades, whimsical costumes, and the opportunity to sample local Belgian beer, creating a memorable experience regardless of the prevailing weather conditions.
A short distance from Charleroi, the charming town of Bouge, integrated within the city of Namur, hosts a unique traditional spring event on the first Sunday of Lent: the Giant Fire of Bouge. This colossal bonfire serves as a symbolic celebration of spring’s arrival, with the tradition thought to be deeply rooted in history, stretching back over 1,000 years. While similar bonfires are celebrated in numerous towns throughout Wallonia, the French-speaking region of southern Belgium, the bonfire in Bouge stands out for its impressive scale and grandeur.
What to Experience: Activities and Attractions
Belgium welcomes the initial signs of spring in March, with parks and woodlands across the country awakening with vibrant colors. Although the peak season for spring flowers typically occurs in April and May, the delicate white wood anemones begin to carpet the forest floor of the Zevenbergenbos in Ranst, located just outside of Antwerp, from mid-March onward. This creates a whimsical and enchanting scene that is sure to delight flower enthusiasts and nature lovers. Similarly, visitors can admire the soft pink blossoms of magnolia trees along the magnolia walk section of Rivierenhof Park, also situated near Antwerp, offering another opportunity to appreciate the beauty of early spring.
Should your travels bring you to the Antwerp region to admire these floral attractions, make sure to dedicate some time to discovering the city’s impressive collection of galleries and museums. If the spring weather happens to be cold and damp, seeking refuge indoors at the Royal Museum of Fine Arts, housed within a magnificent neo-classical building, or exploring the Rubens House (Rubenshuis), the former Antwerp residence and studio of Peter Paul Rubens, will provide rewarding cultural experiences. These attractions offer a welcome escape from the elements while enriching your understanding of art and history.
Highlighting Events in March
Carnival of Binche, Binche. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this three-day carnival, held annually before the start of Lent. Experience captivating street performances, traditional dances, and elaborate costumed processions that showcase the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Giant Fire of Bouge, Namur. Join in the festivities as Wallonia celebrates the end of winter and the arrival of spring with the spectacular Giant Fire of Bouge. Witness this awe-inspiring bonfire that illuminates the city skyline, marking a symbolic transition into the warmer months.
Additional Information for Planning Your Trip
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