Why
This year I have attended the Boekenbeurs for the first time since I moved to Antwerp, I know I know, I should have done it sooner. Never got the chance to see the book fair in person, only heard amazing stories about it, about the organization. I recommend this event for all the book lovers, or book worms like me. Even if you don’t speak Dutch, just enjoy the vibe, have a stroll amongst the famous comics section, there are also a few stands with paper material, world maps, travel notebooks etc.
What
This is not an expensive event. You pay 10€ for an adult entrance and after a certain amount of purchases you get a nice canvas bag for your books. This is a good activity to do during the school holidays with your kids (herfstvakantie); I attended with my 3 years old daughter and she loved it. The kids section is impressive, they have also an everyday schedule of live reading sessions, drawing tables, etc. Some entertainment for children is also available, they had one lady applying nail polish on girls hands and another one doing braids. Plus you get a large offer of books divided per publishing houses. It takes a good afternoon to see it all. But if you are a book worm like me, then you’re gonna need more time. And if you want a break, there are a few food stands and a nice bar that serves nice food too.
Where