What to do during the autumn holidays in Ostend in 2026
10 great tips: Autumn in OstendThe rain hits the window, the temperatures drop and the leaves change their color. Autumn is really here, time for walks in the woods, feel good food on our plate and discovering the best hotspots in Ostend. We would like to give you some tips so you can fully enjoy this blissful period.
Braderie by the Sea
From 2 to 4 October, the centre of Ostend will be all about the Braderie by the Sea. The perfect time to stroll through the shopping streets, discover great bargains and stop along the way for a bite to eat or a drink.
Shrimp Croquette Festival
From 10 to 12 October 2026, Ostend will once again celebrate a true Belgian classic during the Shrimp Croquette Festival. Top chefs and restaurants will serve their best version of the famous shrimp croquette, often made with freshly caught North Sea shrimp. Discover the programme and participating chefs at https://www.garnaalkrokettenfestival.be
Get active
There’s no better place to get some fresh air than the Belgian coast. Enjoy a relaxing walk along the beach or explore Ostend by bike. There’s something for everyone.
Along Ostend’s seafront promenade, you can rent both bicycles and go-karts.
October Fair
A true autumn classic in Ostend: the October Fair. From 9 October to 8 November 2026, no fewer than 74 attractions will be spread across Wapenplein, Groentemarkt, Mijnplein and Sint-Petrus-en-Paulusplein.
From thrilling rides to family favourites for the little ones, not to mention all the classic fairground treats, there’s something for everyone!
VOLLE MAAN: Halloween in Ostend
During the autumn holidays, Ostend takes on a mysterious atmosphere. From 23 October to 8 November, VOLLE MAAN invites you to experience Halloween in a unique cinematic way.
Across nine indoor locations throughout the city, a story unfolds on large screens. A great way to experience Halloween from a completely different perspective.
Maritime walk
Discover Ostend’s maritime character on a walk past some of the most remarkable places connected to its fishing culture, bustling harbour life and unique nautical heritage. The route takes you past several highlights, including the Mercator, Museum Ship Amandine, Visserskaai, Vissersplein and the North Sea Aquarium.
Practical:
The walk is 7.7 km long.
You can pick up a free walking map at Tourism Ostend (Monacoplein 2).
For the kids
There’s plenty to do with children this autumn too. From 24 October, you can visit De Spiekpietjes doe-expo at Wellington Hippodrome and the Ketnet Junior doe-expo at Fort Napoleon.
During the autumn holidays, there are also several family walks, workshops and Halloween activities taking place throughout the city.
For art lovers
If you’re in the mood for a cultural stop this autumn, don’t miss Spilliaert / Ensor. From 8 October 2026 to 10 January 2027, the exhibition brings together two iconic artists who are closely connected to Ostend.
It’s a great opportunity to discover the city from a different, more artistic perspective, with works by Léon Spilliaert and James Ensor, two names that helped shape Ostend’s cultural identity.
Want to turn it into an evening out? Between 20 October and 17 December, several nocturnes will also be organised. The perfect way to visit the exhibition later in the day and end your time in Ostend with an extra dose of art and atmosphere.
Goût | Sense of Taste
In November, Ostend once again puts food and drink in the spotlight. On 7, 8, 10 and 11 November 2026, Goût | Sense of Taste will take place at Wellington Hippodrome.
During the event, you can discover a wide range of flavours, dishes and culinary concepts all in one place, with chefs including Thijs Meliefste and Piet Huysentruyt creating impressive dishes. Ideal if you enjoy discovering new restaurants and products, or simply fancy a relaxed afternoon or evening in Ostend.
Spot seals in Ostend
Did you know you can also spot seals in Ostend?
At the Klein Strand, between the Westerstaketsel and the Westelijke Strekdam, seals can regularly be seen resting on the beach or near the breakwaters. A great stop during an autumn walk along the coast and a particularly fun experience with children. If you spot a seal, it’s of course important to let the animal rest undisturbed and to keep a safe distance.
P.S. At Agence Lecomte, we currently also have an apartment for sale with views of the seals!
From Appartement Paris 10.02, you can enjoy views of the sea and the spot where seals regularly come to rest. So you can even spot them right from the apartment.
View Appartement Paris 10.02 with sea views and views of the seals
Book your stay for the autumn holidays in Ostend
Still looking for the perfect place to stay?At Agence Lecomte, you’ll find a wide selection of holiday apartments by the sea. Whether you’re visiting as a couple, with the whole family or simply looking to get away for a few days, there’s something for everyone.
Contact our team and discover which holiday accommodation suits you best. Then all that’s left to do is look forward to a wonderful autumn break by the sea.
