Pre-Pride Drag Brunch
For over 30 years, the Hessenhuis has been a staple of our community—a place where everyone is welcome. During Antwerp Pride, the Hessenhuis is the place to be from August 2 through 9. From Tuesday through Thursday, it’s the spot for a relaxed and fun evening; on Friday and Saturday, top DJs will be spinning; and on Sunday, there’s a fantastic drag show featuring the best queens. Enjoy the atmosphere inside the cozy café or outside on the large terrace.
Location
Cafe Hessenhuis
Falconrui 79,
2000 Antwerp.
When?
Sunday, August 2, 2026, 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Where?
Café Hessenhuis, 79 Falconrui, Antwerp, Flanders, 2000
Workshop: Silliness and Vulnerability as Tools for Queering Intimacy
Workshop - What if silliness isn’t a weakness, but a method? The Combination invites you to join their ongoing research on queer intimacy. Through conversation, reflection, and somatic exercises, we’ll explore together how vulnerability and absurdity can create space for genuine connection. For anyone curious about this topic, whether in your personal relationships or your creative practice. Failure is vital!
When?
Monday, August 3, 2026, 8:00 p.m. – 10:30 p.m.
Where?
Morpho, Provinciestraat 112, 2018 Antwerp
Workshop: Make Your Own Banner or Protest Sign
Work alongside artists Jade Kerremans, Chloé Wasselin-Dandre, and Kirsten Trippaers to create slogans, images, and messages. They’ll help you illustrate and design your creation.
When?
Tuesday, August 4, 2026, 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Where?
MASbox, the pavilion at the foot of the MAS. This event is free; please register in advance at mas.be.
Drag Quiz with Ruby Cockburns
For over 30 years, the Hessenhuis has been a staple of our community—a place where everyone is welcome. During Antwerp Pride, the Hessenhuis is the place to be from August 2 through 9. From Tuesday through Thursday, it’s the spot for a relaxed and fun evening; on Friday and Saturday, top DJs will be spinning; and on Sunday, there’s a fantastic drag show featuring the best queens. Enjoy the atmosphere inside the cozy café or outside on the large terrace.
Location
Cafe Hessenhuis
Falconrui 79
2000 Antwerp.
When?
Tuesday, August 4, 2026, starting at 6:00 p.m.
Where?
Café Hessenhuis, 79 Falconrui, Antwerp, Flanders, 2000
Pre-Pride Ride
Kick off Antwerp Pride with the Pre Pride Ride, a vibrant and inclusive cycling event hosted by Wielerij Den Draak.
On Tuesday evening, August 4, we’ll gather for a 50-kilometer group ride at a steady but social pace of 26–28 km/h. The ride starts and ends at Café Den Draak, the perfect spot to socialize before and after the ride. We’ll set off at 7:00 PM, so be there a little early.
Practical Information
Distance: 50 km. Average pace: 26–28 km/h (no-drop policy, but you should be comfortable at this pace). Helmets are required. All bikes are welcome. This is a self-supported ride, so bring your own food and drinks, and make sure your bike is in good condition (spare parts recommended). No registration required—just show up.
Open to everyone, on and off the bike. Let’s ride for pride, together.
When?
Tuesday, August 4, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Where?
Café Den Draak, Draakplaats, 2018 Antwerp
Crochet for Hope
Help create a collective blanket inspired by the AIDS Memorial Quilt. Each crocheted square contributes a personal story to the larger whole and serves as a powerful symbol of solidarity within the queer community.
When?
Thursday, August 6, 2026, 2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Where?
MAS Boulevard, 2nd floor. This event is free. For more information, visit mas.be.
Fetish Social
Fetish event, gathering, a fun get-together with drinks and music. All fetishes welcome; nudity is not required but not allowed.
When?
Friday, August 7, 2026, 8:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.
Where?
Niroen Wine Bar, Lijnwaadmarkt 6, 2000 Antwerp
Change Station
Change Station is opening in the heart of Antwerp Central Station: a safe space where you can change clothes, put on makeup, or get ready in peace as soon as you arrive in the city. Whether you’re traveling decked out in glitter or just want to quickly slip into your party outfit, everyone here has the space to be completely themselves. Be sure to stop by—a colorful surprise awaits you.
Change Station is an initiative of NMBS, in collaboration with Trainbow Belgium—the LGBTQIA+ association of the Belgian railways—and Antwerp Pride. During the week of August 3–9, the rainbow flag will fly at Antwerp Central Station, and on Pride Day, the rainbow train will stop in Antwerp.
Change Station will be open on August 8 from 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. in the Press Room at Antwerp Central Station, on the ground floor of the station concourse. Everyone is welcome; no registration required.
When?
Saturday, August 8, 2026, 11:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Where?
Antwerp Central Station (Press Room), Koningin Astridplein 27, Antwerp, Flanders, 2018