From 4 to 6 September 2026, Bruges will once again be the setting for the Reiefestival. Over the course of three days, you can discover theatre, music and dance on and around the canals. Well-known locations and hidden corners will be given a surprising twist, allowing you to experience the city in a different way.
The programme has been curated through a combination of new creations from an open call and existing, recent works. Together, this results in a programme featuring eight open-air performances, along with a delightful fringe programme on and around the canals.
The full programme will be announced on 18 May. Ticket sales will also begin at that time. There are both free and paid performances.
The canals have been flowing through Bruges for centuries, but the theme ‘Flow’ goes beyond the waterways alone. It is about movement in all its forms: people crossing paths, ideas taking shape, emotions that continue to resonate.
During the Reiefestival, you will discover how visible and invisible flows shape the city. From the rhythm of the water to the energy between people; in short, everything that is in motion.
We are already giving you a small glimpse of what’s to come. At the Minnewater, Drift invites you to unwind. Musicians from Spiral Consort and Tromp play seashells from slowly drifting boats, while the choral voices of Cantores blend with the gentle sounds of the city.
Water, music and surroundings merge into a unique listening experience that invites you to slow down and truly listen.
More information about this performance will be available here from 18 May.
YOUR STORY ALONG THE WATER
Do you have a nice story, photos or small memories connected to the canals of Bruges? The organisers of the Reiefestival are collecting personal moments from Bruges residents or visitors, because it is precisely these individuel perspectives that show how the canals are more than just waterways. They are part of our daily lives, from routines and brief encounters to memories that stay with us.
Would you like to share your contribution?
Feel free to send it to reiefestival@bruggeplus.be
Follow the link below to order tickets for one or more Reiefestival performances.
While booking, please check that you have chosen the correct performance, day and/or timeslots.