What to do in Ostend this summer: 12 of the best tips!
Wondering what to do in Ostend during the summer of 2026? There is so much more to discover than just the beach and the sea! Once again, the city will be buzzing with events, concerts, performances, sports activities and culinary pop-ups. Experience Theater Aan Zee, join the celebrations during the Paulusfeesten, take part in a free workout on the beach or discover art in unexpected places. Whether you are looking for free activities, a unique night out or a cosy hidden terrace, this list is full of inspiration.
Theater Aan Zee
From 29 July to 8 August 2026, Theater Aan Zee, better known as TAZ, will once again take over various locations across Ostend.
Alongside traditional theatre performances, the programme also includes music, poetry, talks, films, workshops and dance sessions. Some activities take place in Leopold Park, while others pop up in cafés, cultural venues and other surprising locations throughout the city.
Lecomte Tip: Do not focus only on the major performances. The free activities in Leopold Park and the smaller-scale events at unique venues are often where you will experience the relaxed and distinctive atmosphere that makes TAZ so special.
Run & Rave on the Mercator
A six-kilometre run followed by a rave aboard a historic sailing ship? On Sunday, 2 August 2026, that is exactly what Run & Rave has in store.
The event starts with a six-kilometre route through Ostend. After crossing the finish line, the party continues on the deck of the Mercator, with music, food and drinks.
It is undoubtedly one of the most original activities in Ostend this summer. Places are limited, so registering in advance is highly recommended.
Visit an Ostend museum for free during the Museum Nights
Every Saturday evening, a different museum in Ostend opens its doors free of charge from 6.00 p.m. to 10.00 p.m. It is the perfect option if you want to spend the day at the beach and enjoy a cultural activity in the evening.
The following Museum Nights are scheduled for August 2026:
1 August: Mu.ZEE at the Venetian Galleries
8 August: Astropolis
15 August: Ostend City Museum
22 August: Fort Napoleon
29 August: The Crystal Ship
In addition to free admission, some Museum Nights also feature guided tours and special activities. Be sure to check the programme of the museum you plan to visit in advance.
Paulusfeesten
From 11 to 17 August 2026, the Paulusfeesten will take place on and around Sint-Petrus-en-Paulusplein.
For seven days, the centre of Ostend will come alive with free live music, street theatre, children’s entertainment and eye-catching decorations. The line-up includes Absynthe Minded, Preuteleute, Jebroer, Rick de Leeuw and Paul Michiels, among others.
The Paulusfeesten have been a firm favourite among Ostend locals for many years. There is no need to plan too much: simply head towards the square, find a spot on a nearby terrace and soak up the lively atmosphere and performances.
The (Free) Sports Beach
Sports enthusiasts will also find plenty to do in Ostend during the summer holidays. Until 28 August, activities are organised at the Sports Beach almost every day.
The programme includes yoga, Pilates, Zumba, CrossFit, body-shaping workouts, dance classes, surfing, stand-up paddleboarding and rafting.
Most group classes are free and usually do not require advance booking. Water sports sessions cost €8 and must be booked in advance.
Oostende Koerse
The Oostende Koerse horse races take place at the historic Wellington Racecourse until 17 August.
On race days, you can enjoy thrilling races, impressive horses and the unique atmosphere around the grandstands. Even without an in-depth knowledge of horse racing, an evening at Wellington Racecourse is a wonderful summer experience.
For something a little different, join the guided tour on 27 August. During the tour, you will learn more about the history of the racecourse and get a behind-the-scenes look at the races, jockeys and stables.
Q-Sunset Concert
The Q-Beach House will remain on Ostend’s beach until 30 August 2026.
Stop by for live radio broadcasts, DJ sets, concerts, drinks by the sea and the popular Sunset Concerts. During these performances, you can watch artists take to the stage as the sun slowly sets over the North Sea.
The line-up changes throughout the summer, so be sure to check which artists and DJs are scheduled shortly before your stay.
Take the free ferry to KRAAFS on Oosteroever
Hop aboard the free ferry at Visserskaai and cross over to Oosteroever. The short trip along the harbour channel is already a fun experience in itself, but there is plenty more to discover on the other side.
Until 30 September, Oosteroever is home to the temporary KRAAFS – Kunst onder de Torre art trail. Eighteen artists showcase their work in local businesses and unexpected locations throughout the neighbourhood.
It is best to set off in the late afternoon. Follow the art trail and end your visit by watching the sunset along the harbour channel. It is the perfect way to combine art, architecture, sea views and a boat trip in one outing.
Free photography exhibition beneath the Nieuwe Gaanderijen
Until 2 September, the Nieuwe Gaanderijen are hosting Temporary Views, a free exhibition by city photographer Diana Takacsova.
Do not expect the usual tourist images of the beach and promenade. Instead, the photographer captures quiet, unexpected and sometimes slightly surreal moments from everyday life in Ostend.
The exhibition is free to visit and is especially beautiful in the golden evening light. Combine your visit with a walk along the Royal Galleries and the seafront promenade.
Free concerts at the Wapenplein bandstand
Several free concerts will take place at the historic bandstand on Wapenplein this summer.
The upcoming concerts are scheduled for:
2 August at 3.00 p.m.
8 August at 3.00 p.m. and 6.00 p.m.
18 August at 3.00 p.m.
Order a drink or a bite to eat at one of the surrounding terraces and enjoy the live music. It is a simple, welcoming and affordable way to spend a summer afternoon in the heart of Ostend.
Circus Camille at Klein Strand
From 29 July to 16 August 2026, Camille will once again pitch her iconic pink big top at Klein Strand in Ostend.
For the 2026 edition, a brand-new family show has been created, featuring music, spectacular circus acts and plenty of surprises. There will also be entertainment and activities around the circus tent before and after the show.
Circus Camille is a particularly fun summer activity for families and young fans. You can also combine the show with the free Circus Camille treasure hunt through the centre of Ostend.
The best restaurants and bars
Foodies will also find plenty of delicious places to discover in Ostend this summer.
Be sure to visit chef Túbo Logier’s pop-up, one of the most exciting summer dining concepts on the Belgian coast. At Aster, the menu focuses on locally sourced fish, seafood, seasonal vegetables and dishes cooked over an open wood fire. The menu evolves according to the daily catch and the ingredients available. The pop-up runs until 22 August. As seating is limited, booking well in advance is highly recommended.
Another favourite from our team is La Pompette, a wonderful restaurant with a strong focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Book your holiday accommodation in Ostend today!
Don’t want to miss these events? Book your holiday accommodation in Ostend with Agence Lecomte today. From comfortable studios to spacious seaside apartments, we will be happy to help you find the perfect place to stay for your holiday on the Belgian coast.Agence Lecomte offers a wide selection of comfortable apartments and seaside holiday accommodation. A summer stay in Ostend is ideal for anyone looking to combine the beach and relaxation with a wide range of exciting events.
From your apartment or holiday accommodation, you can easily explore Theater Aan Zee, the Paulusfeesten, Oostende Koerse, the Q-Beach House, the Museum Nights, Circus Camille and much more. You can also enjoy the beach, the seafront promenade, cosy restaurants, hidden terraces and Ostend’s lively city centre.
