National Day
Nationwide public holiday in Belgium · Nationale feestdag
Dates
| Year | Date | Weekday | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 | 21 July | Tuesday | Nationwide |
| 2027 | 21 July | Wednesday | Nationwide |
Where it applies
Everywhere in Belgium.
Is it a day off?
Yes. It is an official public holiday, so most employees have the day off. Government offices, schools and many businesses are usually closed; shops, restaurants and public transport may keep reduced hours. Check local announcements for opening times.
Typical weather in Brussels around 21 July: high 25°C (78°F), low 14°C (57°F), rain on 31% of days.
Averages for 2015–2024, 3 days either side of the date, for the area around Brussels. Past averages, not a forecast.
Forecast for Wednesday 21 July in Brussels: (MET Norway)
About National Day
Belgian National Day on 21 July commemorates the day in 1831 when Leopold of Saxe-Coburg took the constitutional oath as the first King of the Belgians, following the country's independence from the United Kingdom of the Netherlands. It is the main patriotic holiday of the year.
Traditions
The day begins with a Te Deum service attended by the royal family, followed by a military and civilian parade in Brussels in front of the Royal Palace. The capital hosts a popular festival with concerts and activities, and the celebrations close with a fireworks display in the evening.
Editorial summary by Public Holidays World. Dates on this page come from the data source; customs vary by region and family.
Coming up next in Belgium
Sunday, 15 August 2027
National Day in other countries
More for Belgium
Holiday dates are for general information and can change. Official government announcements take precedence.