Welcome to the first weekend of March in Leuven! If you missed the Krokusvakantie fun, we have two big things happening: the colourful Carnaval Parade on Saturday and the start of Jeugdboekenmaand (Youth Book Month) on Sunday. We also found a great indoor market running all weekend nearby if the weather is poor.
See our top picks
Market in Leuven City Centre
City Centre Market
Free to browse downtown on Saturday morning before the parade.
Carnival Funfair
City Centre Funfair Area
The funfair is in town all weekend for indoor rides and games.
Youth Book Month Kick-Off
All Leuven Library Branches
Start exploring the new animal-themed reading activities at the library starting Sunday.
· February 28
3: It’s time for the annual colourful parade! Bring the kids downtown to watch the impressive floats pass by in the afternoon.The main community event happening on Saturday, perfect for an afternoon out.
: The funfair is in town! Perfect for grabbing some classic treats, riding the carousel, or trying your luck at duck fishing.It runs for two weeks, but starts this weekend alongside the parade.
: If your kids love computers and coding, sign them up for this Saturday morning session at the neighbourhood centre in Kessel-Lo.A super specific STEM event happening on Saturday morning.
· March 1
3YOUTH BOOK MONTH KICK-OFF : March is Youth Book Month, focusing on animals this year! Head to any branch of the Leuven library system to see what special activities they have planned to celebrate.This marks the first day of a month-long celebration of reading, starting Sunday.
: This festival wraps up Sunday! Check Het Depot for performance times—it’s likely to have engaging acts that appeal to a wide age range.This is the final day for this festival, making it a 'Last Chance' activity.
: The Artefact Festival concludes this Sunday. It usually features innovative digital and artistic installations that can captivate curious older children.Final chance to catch this contemporary arts festival before it closes.
Also On· anytime this weekend
7: A great hour dedicated to active family time at Hal 5. Great if the kids need to burn off some energy before lunch.It’s a specific, scheduled time for active play on Sunday afternoon.
: Take the family up the famous Leuven tower for fantastic views and learn about the magnificent library collection on this guided tour.A perfect Sunday morning activity that provides culture and a unique view of the city.
: If you have older kids interested in sci-fi literature or film, this Saturday afternoon club at the International House might be the perfect niche event for them.A rare specific interest group meeting that happens this Saturday.
: Explore Leuven by bike in English this Saturday morning. A fantastic way for the whole family to cover more ground if they are comfortable cycling.A highly specific, date-locked English activity perfect for newcomers or expats.
FREE : Get up early on Sunday for a traditional market experience in the charming district of Heverlee. Great for grabbing fresh bread or snacks.A genuinely local, early Sunday morning activity that is free to browse.
FREE : The main weekly market is happening all day Saturday downtown. Grab lunch here before heading to the parade later in the afternoon.The best chance to hit a major local market this weekend.
: Explore the theatre using an imaginative audio guide named Tillie. Perfect for curious kids who enjoy stories and imagination.A specific Sunday activity centered around a unique way to experience a local building.
Frequently Asked Questions
What free kids events are on in Leuven this weekend?
The best free options are browsing the main Saturday Market in the City Centre (Leuven City Centre Market) or the Sunday morning market in Heverlee. Both are great for soaking up the atmosphere.
Is there anything family-friendly happening on Saturday afternoon?
Yes! The main event is the Carnaval Parade from 3:10 PM in the city centre, followed by plenty of rides at the nearby Carnavalskermis.
Which activities are best for teens this weekend?
Teens might enjoy the Sci-Fi Movie & Book Club Saturday afternoon, or the final day of the Artefact Festival for some contemporary art.
