Port of Brussels celebrates its 25th anniversary

The port of Brussels is celebrating its 25th birthday and is organising various events to celebrate this milestone in the city’s history.

The city has always had various ports, some that went in as far as St Catherine Quais. But the port as we know it now was founded in 1993 after the regionalisation of the Belgian ports and waterways. Situated on the eastern side of the city and going right the way through from south to north, the inland port covers a site of 105 hectares in the Brussels-Capital Region.

Recent developments to the site include the ‘Bouwmaterialendorp’. But that is just the beginning of these plans. A new regional park is due to be constructed and coming for spring, their will be the Brussels cruise terminal. This terminal will facilitate easier berthing for river cruise vessels, coming right in time for the Brussels canal boat tours reopening.

As for the actual events, the May 20th will see a special edition of the Port Festival. This includes boat trips, a ‘Port Run’, a soapbox challenge, a death ride and a skywatch.

And being the first Belgian port to be awarded the “CO2 neutral” label. The port will plant 25 trees to create a new green space in Anderlecht. Symbolising its commitment and intent to obtain even a third star from the eco-dynamic company label.

Brussels’ icon, Manneken Pis, will be kitted out in a lock keeper’s uniform to honour the works and celebrate this momentus occassion.