2026 will be a salute to suds in Flanders
Belgium’s Flanders region will next year raise a toast to it enjoying its first decade of Belgian beer being officially recognized by UNESCO. And Flanders makes it clear that those visiting it in 2026 will have plenty of opportunities to quaff a few cold ones in celebration.
“It’s not just a milestone for brewers, but for the communities, traditions, and hospitality culture that beer represents here,” says VISITFLANDERS’ Marco Frank. “There will be a number of events throughout the year, from brewery festivals and beer tastings to cultural programs highlighting the craftsmanship and heritage behind Belgian beer.
“Belgian beer culture is the only beer tradition in the world that has been recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This highlights how unique and deeply rooted beer is in our history and daily life.”
UNESCO recognized Belgian beer culture because of its exceptional diversity, quality, and cultural importance. With hundreds of breweries producing more than 1,700 different beers — often using techniques passed down for centuries — beer in Belgium is more than simply a drink but rather a part of the country’s social fabric, gastronomy, and even its religious heritage. “Think abbey beers or the word-famous Trappist beers,” Frank points out.
Frank says the UNESCO recognition gave international visibility to something Belgians have long been proud of, adding visitors increasingly come to Flanders not just to drink beer, but to experience the culture surrounding it — i.e. touring historic breweries, visiting hops fields in Poperinge, or pairing beers with Flemish cuisine.
“It has strengthened Flanders’ position as a top destination for beer enthusiasts and anyone seeking cultural immersive experiences in European heritage and art,” he states.
Photos: Janop de Kamp, Milo Profi + Jan D’Hondt.
Beer culture is seen throughout Flanders, Frank points out. “It’s in the centuries-old breweries, the traditional beer cafés, the local festivals, the museums dedicated to beer history, and even in fine dining restaurants where chefs pair dishes with specific brews. It’s an everyday part of life, yet also a cultural experience visitors can easily immerse themselves in. Given the wide range of styles and beer types, even alcohol-free beer, the beer culture caters to a wide range of tastes and preferences.”
VISITFLANDERS expects strong interest from beer enthusiasts worldwide in 2026, given the 10-year anniversary. Belgium already attracts travelers seeking authentic beer und culinary experiences, and the milestone will be an additional draw for visitors who want to celebrate a part of the world where beer culture truly thrives.
Tourism officials are thankful that UNESCO alone recognized Belgian beer culture, Frank adds, stating that it affirms its “global significance. The UNESCO recognition was a turning point — it validated our traditions on a world stage and underscored that beer in Belgium is heritage, not just a product. Ten years on, it remains a symbol of pride for Flanders and an inspiration to preserve, promote, and share this culture with the world.”
Meanwhile, Frank says Belgian brewers are clearly adaptable.
“We have seen a strong diversification of the Belgian Beer culture in recent years,” he continues. “Brewers have responded to a growing demand for gluten free and non-alcoholic beer. It’s all about enjoying the Belgian Beer Culture in a responsible way and responding to market demands.”
