Three parades and a ball

On Sunday 20 July, the royal family will lean into alternative mobility BRUSSELS ∇ The ten-year reign of King Albert II will also be celebrated on the eve of National Day. ► This Sunday 20 July, like any self-respecting celebration, everything begins with an aperitif. But punctuated with a tasteful cultural touch. From 11:00 am to 2:00 pm, the classical Aperitif Concert will take place in the courtyard of the Palais d'Egmont. The Prima La Musica ensemble under the direction of Dirk Brossé will perform a recital of works by Mozart and Bartok every hour. ► From 11:30 am, the royal Roller Parade will gather at the Parc du Cinquantenaire on the Schuman roundabout side. Enthusiasts of the Belgium Rollers Parade have prepared a special reign anniversary ride along thoroughfares that are usually inaccessible to them, such as Rue de la Loi (watch out for the hole!) or Rue Belliard. Prince Laurent and Princess Claire in person will give the starting signal at 12:30 pm. ► At the foot of the Atomium and along Boulevard du Centenaire, starting at 12:00 pm, participants of the Moto Parade will gather. The King, a great fan of big motorbikes, but who at 69 has given up riding himself, will give the starting signal at 1:30 pm. Beforehand, the Blue Knights will present him with a leather vest. ► Prince Philippe, for his part, will indeed participate in the Vélo Parade, which will start at 2:00 pm from Place des Palais. Gathering from 12:30 pm. ► From 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm, circus, activities, music and tastings on Rue Haute and Place Brueghel. ► The Roller Street Park will open its doors on both days from 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm at the Casernes Prince Albert. 12-25 year-olds will be the main target audience of the event, but the park is open to everyone. On the program: a 1,000 to 1,500 m² rink, a park of ramps and obstacles, and 4 DJs for the musical atmosphere: Daddy K, DJ Risk, DJ HMD and DJ Lefto. ► More eclectic music from 6:30 pm at the Bal populaire des Marolles on Place du Jeu de Balle. On stage, 100% Belgian artists such as the essential and tireless Annie Cordy, Grand Jojo of course, and Johan Verminnen among others. The square will be transformed into a dance floor with a giant disco ball and equipped with a large screen. The public will be able to vote by SMS to choose their favorite popular song from a virtual jukebox. The contest winner will receive their prize around 11:00 pm... from the hands of Prince Laurent and Princess Claire, who are well-loved in the neighborhood.