Leuven (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Leuven’s Car-Free Sunday shifts from the end of August to 21 September, aligning with Flanders. It includes King of the Ring, Short Chain Market, Bike Plaza, Maakleerfest, and a flea market at Vismarkt.
As VRT News reported, Leuven is shifting the date of its Car-Free Sunday. Traditionally held at the end of August, the timing aimed to avoid conflict with the influx of students at the start of the academic year, which begins on 21 September. The city was concerned about disrupting student relocations, which are often concentrated around that time.
After a survey, Leuven found that students now arrive more gradually throughout September, not in a single wave. Consequently, the city has decided to align its Car-Free Sunday with the rest of Flanders, adopting a date consistent with regional schedules. Officials mentioned that this change allows Leuven to harmonise the event with other cities in the region while minimising disruption to student relocations.
What’s new for Leuven’s Car-Free Sunday on 21 September?
Leuven is changing things up for its Car-Free Sunday. The popular “King of the Ring” event, where people can cycle or walk around the Leuven ring road, will stay the same. However, the flea market, known as the brocante, is moving. It’s going from the ring road to the Vismarkt area.
Because the flea market is moving, the Bondgenotenlaan, which used to host the market, will now be used for sports activities. Officials mentioned that these changes are designed to make Car-Free Sunday in Leuven easier for everyone to enjoy.
Leuven’s Car-Free Sunday is adding new things. They’re starting a “Short Chain Market.” At this market, local people can sell their goods directly. This helps local farmers and small businesses. They mentioned that it also encourages people to buy things that are good for the environment because the goods don’t have to travel far.
The Martelarenplein will change into a “Bike Plaza.” At the Bike Plaza, people’ll find everything about bikes. There will be bike repairs, shows, and workshops. Leuven is serious about getting people to use bikes and be environmentally friendly.
There will be a “maakleerfest,” a festival by Maakleerplek. It’s all about being green and using things in a circle. People can join workshops, see displays, and do fun activities. The Olevodroom on the Brusselsestraat will be a place for dance groups and performers to show off their skills. People in Leuven can also put tables and chairs outside their homes. The city will give more details about traffic and events soon.
