Genk (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Genk prepares as the capital of De Warmste Week 2025 (Dec 18–24). A donation box launches tomorrow, Nov 31, 2025, at Stadsplein. Mayor Wim Dries and Aldermen Parthoens, Kriekemans support the Warmest Weekend (Dec 12–14) events.
As VRT News reported, the city of Genk is preparing for its role as the capital of De Warmste Week 2025, Belgium’s annual week of solidarity taking place from December 18 to 24, 2025. Starting tomorrow, Nov 31, 2025, a new donation box will be placed at Stadsplein (City Square). Visitors can make a contribution in cash or by scanning a QR code.
“Passersby can easily contribute,”
says Alderman for Economy Kathleen Parthoens (CD8M).
“The city wants to bring the message of De Warmste Week closer to residents and encourage everyone to take part before the campaign officially begins.”
How is Genk uniting the city for De Warmste Week 2025?
According to officials, with this initiative, Genk shows its commitment to community involvement and social responsibility. The bright flame in the centre of the city will act as a visual reminder of togetherness.
“People can contribute to the 220 projects that help people with invisible illnesses,”
says Mayor Wim Dries (CD&V).
“Moreover, part of the proceeds will go to five Genk initiatives.”
“From a closet sale and waffle baking to walks and small sales, the theme is clearly alive in the city.”
Wim Dries, mayor of Genk
Preparations for De Warmste Week 2025 are gaining pace in Genk. Local schools, clubs, and residents are setting up their own projects to support the national campaign.
“The theme is clearly alive and well in the city: from a closet sale and waffle baking to walks and small sales,”
says Dries.
“Every contribution counts. It just goes to show what a warm and welcoming city Genk is.”
The city will hold The Warmest Weekend from December 12 to 14, 2025. During these 3 days, the city centre will become a meeting point for all who want to take part in the charity event. Officials mentioned that the goal is to connect local initiatives and highlight the strong community spirit leading up to De Warmste Week, which runs from December 18 to 24, 2025.
“This way, we want to provide maximum support to all Genk residents in their initiatives,”
says Karel Kriekemans (CD&V), Alderman for Events.
Throughout The Warmest Weekend, clubs, schools, and community groups can use free market stalls to present their activities and fundraising ideas. Residents will be able to sell handmade items or showcase projects. Local shops, cafés, and restaurants will also join in by offering live music, entertainment, and seasonal treats. The city centre will be filled with winter lights.
“Besides, it’s a shopping weekend,”
adds Parthoens.
“There will be plenty to do in Genk!”
De Warmste Week is a national event that promotes solidarity and supports community initiatives in Belgium. The project began in 2013 as part of Studio Brussel’s “Music for Life” initiative and has grown substantially into a well-recognised annual event. Each year (and last year in Flanders – Ghent and the province of Luxembourg), there is a different city that is chosen as the year’s major event location. Genk has been selected to host the events in 2025, from December 18 – 24, 2025.
