Celebrate the “Tournée Minérale” With These Awe-Inspiring Events
Tournée Minérale began last week, marking the eighth edition of this popular Belgian initiative. Off to a good start; an estimated 1.5 million people have joined the month-long challenge. Their mission? To abstain from alcohol for a taste of sobriety.
What’s it all about? The campaign aims to promote the health benefits of a zero-alcohol lifestyle. How? By encouraging people to take a break from drinking.
If life without booze sounds dull, think again! We’ve rounded up the best alcohol-free events around for Tournée Minérale 2024. You’re assured a fun-filled February from nature to waffle-making and chocolate tasting! Go on and discover a wealth of experiences without alcohol!
Take Walks and Sip Tournée Minérale Mocktails
For alternative activities, why not embark on an outdoor adventure during Tournée Minérale? Kasterlee offers a slice of nature’s paradise to dedicated hikers, beginner walkers, or families. The cherry on top? Not a drop of alcohol is needed to soak up your time here!
The place offers various programmes from which to choose. All of them are tailored to your needs and fitness levels. Marvel at forest scenery on leisurely walks with a mocktail in hand. Feel the burn on intense hikes and longer walks if you like a challenge.
If you don’t like exercise, don’t worry! You can enjoy Kasterlee’s sumptuous culinary scene instead. Satisfy your appetite at various restaurants dotted through the area.
Where: Kasterlee, Belgium
When: Monday to Friday (9 am to 12 pm & 1 pm to 4 pm), Saturdays (9 am to 2 pm). Closed on Tuesday afternoon. Open during Public Holidays and long weekends.
Discover New Hobbies and Unwind at de Feniks
Workshops at De Feniks won’t just keep you entertained over dry February but will teach you new-found skills or fuel life-long passions!
During Tournée Minérale, learn the art of knitting, brush up on your Dutch or play fun board games with friends at De Feniks.
If you don’t already know, De Feniks is a concept store and bar rolled into one. The unique venue offers myriads of incredible workshops. And no, you won’t be enticed by the bar. This is a temptation-free zone where only non-alcoholic drinks are sold. Quench your thirst with Belgian lemonade and signature Tournée Minérale mocktails, or try their renowned Belgian coffees.
Where: Kortrijkstraat 60, 8700 Tielt
When: view workshop times and dates here
Nights Out with Alcohol-Free Alternatives
Do you crave cold, refreshing beer? Or fun nights out at the bar? Apero Zero Alcohol Craft Beer, an event by Hoppiness, is the answer to your dry February woes.
The Tournée Minérale inspired event promises a night to remember. Anticipate good times and laughter on a guided zero-alcohol craft beer tasting. Savour your favourite brews without the buzz. Or try alternative beverages instead if beer’s not your drink of choice.
These social events without alcohol offer more than satisfying beer sips. But will renew your appreciation for the well-loved drink. Instead of overdrinking, learn all there is to know about craft beer.
Where: Hoppiness Brussels, Av. de Jette 154, 1090, Belgium
When: Sunday, 11 February (7:30 pm to 9:30 pm) & Thursday, 22 February (6 pm to 8 pm)
Alcohol-Free Fun and Vintage Finds at Brussels Retro Market
For Tournée Minérale 2024, skip the booze and go treasure hunting. If you love all things vintage or pre-loved finds, don’t miss Brussels Retro Market.
Open every Sunday from 10 am, the flea market bursts with one-of-a-kind bric-a-brac. Stumble across eclectic jewelers, vintage fashion, handcrafted trinkets and more!
Nestled within the heart of Brussels, the Brussels Retro Market is held weekly at the Be-HERE Sustainable Village.
You’ll love the setting for its warm natural lighting, high ceilings and open spaces to stroll about. The best part? The market is easily accessible via metro or train. Spend the whole day unearthing precious finds.
If you don’t like market gems, the village offers more than just a shopping extravaganza. Why not embrace mindfulness practices like yoga and meditation?
Where: Be-HERE, Rue Dieudonné Lefèvre, 4, 1020 Bruxelles
When: flea market is every Sunday (10 am to 4 pm)
Giant (and Sober) Fun at the Museum of Natural Sciences
Discover species that existed long ago this alcohol-free February. And no, we’re not talking about the golden age of the dinosaurs.
A deadly meteorite wiped out most animals millions of years ago, yet life found a way. Out of the shadows of dinosaurs emerged smaller species. Many evolved into huge creatures that would have dwarfed humans. Enjoy a thrilling outing at Giants, a temporary Museum of Natural Sciences exhibition where you can interact with some of these behemoth animals.
This exhibition will transport you back to when larger-than-life creatures ruled the earth and ocean. You’ll get close to 3D displays of some incredible species. Five contain nearly complete skeletons.
Come face-to-face with Otodus Megalodon, the largest shark ever. Or meet Gigantopithecus black, a monkey three times the size of an orangutan.
Where: Rue Vautier 29, Vautierstraat, 29, 1000 Bruxelles
When: runs until Sunday, 25 August. Tuesday to Friday (9 am to 5 pm), Saturday and Sunday (10 am to 6 pm). Closed on Mondays.
Improve Your Breakfast Game: Learn to Make Belgian Waffles
How do you fill your weekends without hazy, alcohol-filled evenings? Try waffle making!
Was your childhood filled with the mouth-watering and delicious aromas of Belgian waffles? Rather than longing for your past, recreate those childhood memories with a waffle workshop in Brussels. Boasting a caramelised texture with a fluffy interior, these heavenly pastries can be challenging to perfect. But you can unlock the secrets of mastering the classic Belgian waffle.
During this one-and-a-half-hour baking lesson, you’ll be taught how to make and assemble the perfect waffle from scratch, relying on recipes passed down from generations.You’ll also learn the batter’s secret ingredients that give Belgian waffle its’ crunchy consistency, aroma and flavour. Hint: they’re yeast, pearl sugar and egg whites. It’s time to decorate once you’ve concocted a perfectly golden waffle. Pour syrup, Nutella or cream into the pastry’s deep pockets, topped with fruit, speculoos or anything else that tickles your fancy. And enjoy with a fresh cup of tea or coffee.
But just how many waffles can you eat in one go? It’s all-you-can-eat, with the record set at an impressive nine waffles! Think you can beat that to become the next waffle-eating champion?
Where: Rue des Foulons 30, 1000, Bruxelles
When: runs between February and April (2 pm to 3:30 pm), see dates here.
Light up Winter Nights With the Bright Festival
Want to see Brussels in a new, magical light this season? Clear your calendars for the unmissable Bright Festival. From the 15th to the 18th of February, the city’s winter streets will transform into a captivating tapestry of light and colour.
The event shines a spotlight on Brussels, with 20 original art installations illuminating the city. Discover Brussels by night, exploring two routes mapped out for the occasion. Following The Royal Route, rediscover familiar landmarks adorned with mesmerising displays. Or opt to walk the European route. Celebrating the Belgian EU Presidency and Europe, this latter route will feature a series of themed installations and activities.
Remember to admire some of our venues as you walk the different routes. While not an official part of the festival, they’re unique sights to behold, day or night. Some of these places include Autoworld, Bibliotheque Solvay, Plein Publiek BXL, Bozar and BIP.
Fun for all ages, little ones can also join the festivities. There are child-friendly installations, entertainment, and play zones.
Along the way, museums offer programs for festival attendees. They also provide a warm refuge to escape the cold.
This February, ditch the bars. Instead, brave the cold for the twinkling lights of the Bright Festival.
Where: various districts along two routes
When: Thursday, 15 February to Sunday, 18 February (7 pm to 11 pm)
Musical and Cinematic Delights at Flagey
Are you a fan of classical music, art and film? This alcohol-free February, be mesmerised by classical music or enthralled with a thought-provoking film at Flagey.
Step inside Flagey, a beautiful Art Deco building, and fill your itinerary with top cultural events.
Browse their website for the perfect musical or cinematic experience of your choice. Whether you’re an avid musical or movie enthusiast, there’s something for everyone.
More than a venue, Flagey is a famed culture house. Prominent musicians, artists and up-and-coming talent pass through their doors every year!
Where: Place Sainte-Croix, 1050 Brussels
When: click here for February’s calendar
Find Inspiration to Keep Going During Tournee Minerale
For the majority, giving up alcohol for a month isn’t easy. If you often drink to unwind or as a social lubricant, breaking these habits can be a significant obstacle.
But being sober shouldn’t restrict your enjoyment of life. However, you may have to broaden your definition of fun or what it means to have a good time.
Fortunately, you can make the journey rewarding and even exciting.
Visit the Tournée Minérale website for tips, advice, and social events without alcohol. Learn the benefits of avoiding alcohol. Discover how to drink more consciously. Celebrate abstinence while enjoying the activities you love.
You can also become a mixologist extraordinaire at home. Scroll through endless recipes for delicious, handcrafted mocktails! If you want to socialise, numerous bars cater to their sober clientele.
Being sober has never tasted or felt better.
Looking for the perfect venue for your Tournée Minérale function? Brussels Special Venues has got you covered.
Boasting the largest selection of venues, Brussels Special Venues are ideally suited for big and small events, even alcohol-free !
From intimate celebrations to large-scale gatherings, you’ll find the ideal event space that aligns with your budget and requirements!
For more information about our association, reach out to Association Manager, Heidi Martens. Embrace the opportunity to grow, be visible, and stand out in the world of exceptional event venues! Visit our to gather more information! Follow our , and for all the latest updates! Want to keep in touch for other updates?
