National Belgian Day

Young woman wearing a red beret, enjoying a plate of Belgian waffles topped with chocolate, surrounded by beautiful medieval architecture in Belgium.. — National belgian day illustration

Hey there! Are you ready to celebrate National Belgian Day? Well, get your waffles, chocolate, and beer ready because it's going to be a deliciously fun day! Let's dive into the history and festivities, Belgium-style!

When is Belgian Day?

It's national belgian day on the 21st July.

What is National Belgian Day?

National Belgian Day is a day dedicated to celebrating the rich and diverse culture of Belgium. It's a time to honor Belgian heritage, traditions, and all the things that make Belgium so unique.

A Brief History

Belgium, located in Western Europe, is known for its medieval towns, stunning architecture, and of course, its mouthwatering cuisine. The nation gained independence from the Netherlands in 1830 and has since flourished as a thriving country with a rich history.

On July 21st, 1831, Leopold I became the first King of the Belgians. This historic moment marked the beginning of a new era for Belgium and its people. To commemorate this milestone, Belgians celebrate National Belgian Day each year on July 21st.

How to Celebrate

There are plenty of ways to celebrate National Belgian Day, and it's all about indulging in the best that Belgium has to offer. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Host a Belgian-themed dinner party and delight your guests with classic dishes like moules-frites and waffles. Don't forget to pair the meal with some fine Belgian beer!
Visit a local Belgian bakery and treat yourself to an array of delectable pastries. Trust us, you won't be able to resist the irresistible aroma of freshly baked Belgian treats!
Explore Belgian art and culture by visiting a museum or attending a Belgian film screening. Immerse yourself in the beauty and creativity of this incredible nation.

Did You Know?

Did you know that Belgium is famous for its comic strips? Comics play a significant role in Belgian culture, with iconic characters like Tintin and The Smurfs originating from the country. So, when you're celebrating National Belgian Day, don't forget to dive into the colorful world of Belgian comic art!

History behind the term 'Belgian'

1200

The Rise of the Walloons

In the 13th century, the term 'belgian' started to emerge. It originally referred to the Walloons, a group of people who inhabited the Southern region of the Low Countries. The Walloons spoke a Romance language and had distinct cultural traits that set them apart from their Germanic neighbors.

1477

Burgundy's Influence

By the late 15th century, the Burgundian Netherlands, led by the powerful Dukes of Burgundy, gained influence in the Low Countries. This led to a further development of the term 'belgian' as it became associated with the inhabitants of the entire region, encompassing both the Dutch-speaking Flemish and the French-speaking Walloons.

1830

Independence and National Identity

In 1830, Belgium declared its independence from the United Kingdom of the Netherlands. This marked a significant turning point in the history of the term 'belgian' as it became closely tied to the new nation's identity. Belgians began to embrace their shared cultural heritage and diverse linguistic backgrounds.

1880

Belgian Colonial Exploits

During the late 19th century, Belgium colonized several territories in Africa, most notably the Belgian Congo (modern-day Democratic Republic of the Congo). This period of colonial expansion contributed to the international recognition of the term 'belgian' and the association with Belgium's imperial ambitions.

1967

Linguistic Divisions and Federalization

In 1967, Belgium underwent a process of federalization due to linguistic tensions between the Dutch-speaking Flemish and the French-speaking Walloons. This development further solidified the term 'belgian' as a representation of the diverse linguistic and cultural landscape of the country.