The Flower Carpet is back: Brussels is blooming
The Flower Carpet is back: Brussels is blooming
Half a million flowers, one iconic square, and four days to see it. Ready?
Every two years, Brussels gives its Grand-Place a spectacular makeover. From 13 to 16 August 2026, the city’s most famous square will once again be covered in the iconic Flower Carpet and this year, it’s set to be bigger, bolder and very, very photogenic.
A wave of flowers
For its 2026 edition, the Flower Carpet takes inspiration from one of the world’s most recognisable artworks: Hokusai’s The Great Wave of Kanagawa.
More than 500,000 dahlias will come together to recreate the famous Japanese wave right in the heart of Brussels, celebrating 160 years of diplomatic relations between Belgium and Japan.
It’s art, but make it floral. And honestly? We’re here for it.
More flowers, more Brussels
The Grand-Place isn’t the only place getting a floral glow-up.
For the first time, a second Flower Carpet will be created at the Bourse, with a design inspired by hops, a little tribute to Belgium’s much-loved beer culture.
Because what’s more Belgian than flowers, beautiful architecture and a beer reference?
Don’t just see it. See it from above.
The Flower Carpet is impressive from the ground, but the real wow moment comes from above.
Head up the Town Hall tower for a panoramic view of the entire installation and the historic Grand-Place surrounding it. It’s also the perfect excuse to get that one photo you’ll definitely be posting later.
And when evening arrives, the Flower Carpet gets a whole new atmosphere, with a sound and light show bringing the Grand-Place to life after dark. Running from 9 PM to 11 PM, with performances every 30 minutes, it's the perfect way to experience the Flower Carpet in a completely different light.
Make a weekend of it with Cardo
And this is where Cardo Brussels comes in.
Located just 15 minutes from the Grand-Place, Cardo is the perfect base for a floral-filled Brussels escape. Spend the day exploring the city, discovering the Flower Carpet and enjoying a Belgian beer or two, then come back to the hotel and switch into relaxation mode.
Take a dip in the rooftop pool, unwind at Contour Spa, or simply enjoy the city from above with a drink in hand.
Flowers by day. Rooftop vibes by night. Sounds like a pretty perfect Brussels weekend to us.
Ready to catch the wave?
The Flower Carpet only happens every two years, and it only sticks around for four days.
So, if you’ve been waiting for a reason to visit Brussels this summer, consider this your sign.
Book your stay at Cardo, grab your camera and come see Brussels bloom.