BELGIUM: The Belgium Military Wives Choir: A community built “on the joy of singing”

Read about the Belgium Military Wives Choir community. Having been founded in 2014, it is now one of the largest choirs in the overseas network, boasting more than 30 members.

Find out about the major events they support throughout the year here.

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

BELGIUM: Been Extended? Read On……

If you have been extended in your current role or promoted/transferred to a new role, please do visit the NSE to start the ball rolling on renewing your SHAPE and Protocol I.D.s

Just a gentle reminder that you will also need to inform DIO and Healix, renew your SOFA card and re-register any vehicles you may have. 

The NSE can signpost you as needed and SHAPE2Day (ArrivingLeaving: SHAPE ID/Extension) is also a very helpful starting point.

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE.

BELGIUM: Guinguettes Season is Back for 2026

Guinguettes season is back in Brussels, launching last Friday with Guinguette Maurice in Cinquantenaire Park.

These pop-up bars, open across the city, offer food and drinks as well as various activities, events and concerts. The 2026 programme incudes Yoga, a Repair Cafe, a Lindy Hop and Street Theatre.

To find out more, have a read of this.

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

BELGIUM: Brussels Urban Trail, Sunday 28 June 2026, still time to sign-up

If you have never experienced an Urban Trail before, then this is the sign you have been waiting for. It truly is the most incredible way to see a City, even one you think you know.

An urban trail is a running or walking event which passes by and through famous and less well known spots and buildings throughout the city.

With two distances to choose from 7-8km and 11-13km you wend your way around the course at your own pace. The event is not timed so there is no pressure but to enjoy this unique experience.

Last year we ran the 11km with our then 9 year old and it was a thoroughly enjoyable morning; we even scoped out our lunch venue en route!

The course and locations are yet to be announced but it will definitely show you a side to the city you may not have seen before. Spaces are limited so registration is required. 

These are brilliantly organised events, with toilets, bag drops, t-shirt collection, entertainment on the course and of course a goodie bag when you finish. You won't be disappointed.

If I haven't sold it to you yet, have a look at this.

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

BELGIUM: Vestalia Festival 2026, Saturday 6th to Sunday 14th June 2026

The third edition of Vestalia is due to finish this weekend!

Around 40 exceptional stately homes around Belgium will open their doors to the public during the festival.

The theme this year is 'Meeting' to honour the individuals at the heart of these beautiful historic homes.

As well as visits and tours of the homes and gardens, there will be concerts and performances in prestigious settings and some gourmet tasting to be sampled as well.

Find out more here.

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

BELGIUM: BAD Festival, Charleroi on Weekends until Sunday 2nd August 2026

The largest food court space in Wallonia is back, until Sunday 2nd August 2026! 

The BAD Festival spans more than 2500m² in the open air, perfect to meet up with family or friends this Summer.

Come and enjoy 10 street food stalls, a cocktail bar, and more than 25 specialty beers in a unique atmosphere. With live music, DJ sets, fabulous food and awesome atmosphere, this is one summer festival you won't want to miss.

WHEN: Fridays & Saturdays 18:00-23:00, Sundays 16:00-22:30 until 2nd August 2026
WHERE: rue Chausteur 26, Charleroi
HOW MUCH: Free Admission, cost on consumables

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

SHAPE: Food Handling Courses, next one Thursday 18th June 2026, 15:00 SHAPE Healthcare Facility

For anyone wishing to volunteer on any food or drink stalls at Britfete, there is another chance to get your Food Handling course in.

WHEN: Thursday 18th June 2026, 15:00
WHERE: SHAPE Healthcare Facility, Building 401, 2nd Floor Conference Room, Washington DC Area.
WHY: Food Handling Certificate is mandatory for anyone manning Food or Drink Stalls at SHAPE Events.
HOW: Book you place by emailing antoaneta.s.lazarova.ln@health.mil

You may not get a reply or confirmation email but you will be booked onto the course.

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

SHAPE: Learn to Face Paint, NEW TIME Tuesday 23rd June 18:00

The final Learn to Face Paint session is later this month. To make it more accessible, the timing has changed!

This is a great session facilitated by Beccy Player. Don's miss this fabulous opportunity to learn some really impressive face-painting techniques and I promise you it is easier than it looks.

WHEN: Tuesday 23rd June 2026, 18:00 NEW TIME

WHERE: The Britbar

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

SHAPE: Summer Camp for kids at the SHAPE Arts & Crafts Centre - sign-up now open

If you are looking for Summer Camp opportunities in the School Holidays, check out what the SHAPE Arts and Crafts Centre have on offer.

Spaces are limited so be sure to sign up soon if you are interested.

Pop in to SHAPE Arts and Crafts Centre to secure your space.


Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

BELGIUM: The Royal Palace in Brussels opens its doors to the public following a 2 year renovation

Following a two-year renovation project, the Royal Palace of Brussels will reopen its doors to the public!

The Palace is the administrative headquarters of the  Belgian monarchy and is where King Philip of Belgium maintains his office. 

Don't miss this opportunity to discover the architectural splendours of  this gorgeous building. The Palace will be open for 6 weeks this summer; check out the imposing grand staircase, the great gallery, the empire room and the throne room before enjoying the gorgeous gardens.

WHEN: Friday 3rd July to Sunday 16th August 2026

WHERE: The Royal Palace, Rue Brederode 16, 1000 Brussels

MORE INFORMATION: here

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

BELGIUM: AI Boot Camp - from Zero to AI fluent in one morning! Tuesday 30 June 2026 09:00 - 12:00 CEST

The Inspire to Lead Team are pleased to share that an additional session with the BFBS Academy has been secured. Want to know all about Artificial Intelligence? This course is perfect for you.

The brilliant session will take place on Tuesday 30th June 0900hrs – 1200hrs (CEST) via MS Teams.

If you would like to take part, please contact Zak on Zakia.Yousaf100@mod.gov.uk to secure your space by 16th June.

Places are limited; don't delay, book today!

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

BELGIUM: Make-a-Wish photo and GBR figures....

Congratulations and a big thank you to everyone who took part running, walking and volunteering at Make A Wish this weekend just gone. 

GBR A team completed 617 Laps
GBR B team completed 468 Laps
GBR C team completed 428 Laps

The GB Community made in total €5585.00 which will be donated to the MAW Foundation.

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

BELGIUM: British Forces Social Work Services Online Safety Newsletter

Please see the British Forces Social Works Services Online Safety Newsletter.

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

BRUSSELS: HISO final visit to Welcombeek and NATO HQ, Wednesday 17 June 2026

This month it will be my final visit to NATO HQ and Welcombeek! 

I will be coming to Welcombeek Coffee Morning on Wednesday 17th June 10:00 -11:30 and then heading to NATO HQ between 12:00 and 14:00. Padre Craig and Nikki are joining me too.

If you are about, do pop in and say cheerio or get answers to any questions you may have.

I have thoroughly enjoyed visiting you all during my time as HISO!

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

BRUSSELS: Introducing the Community Resource List for Brussels

Introducing the Community Resource List (CRL) for Brussels!

To make it easier for everyone to find local recommendations and information, check out the Community Resource List or CRL for short.

Access your Community Resource List here

Submit your recommendations here

This is a go-to list for information guides, local businesses, babysitters, pet sitters, restaurants, days out, local businesses, mechanics, hairdressers, and more!

The CRL resource should help new arrivals and anyone with a burning question that might have already been asked and answered previously in different groups. The benefit of this being you can check the list anytime, especially if you need to know something ASAP.

This list is for and by your community so please add any and all of your if you have a recommendations by using this quick MS Form.

The list will be updated regularly with any new entries.

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

BELGIUM: Summer Events in Belgium 2026

Some dates for your diaries, feast your eyes on the Summer Events in Belgium for 2026.

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

SHAPE: JOM Leavers BBQ, Thursday 2nd July 2026 1800-2200

Tickets for the JOM Leavers BBQ are now available!

Don't miss this chance to say Au Revoir to friends and colleagues departing this Summer. Food provided, Children welcome. DJ Craig will be provided the tunes and is happy to provide quick DJ lessons throughout the evening!

Please sign-up using the form or QR code in the poster; although there is no charge for places, numbers are needed for catering purposes and any dietary requirements. 

 
WHEN: Thursday 2nd July 2026, 1800 - 2200
WHERE: JOM Mess
DRESS CODE: Summer Casual (Dress for the weather!)
DEADLINE TO SIGN UP: Thursday 25th June 2026

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

BELGIUM: BRITFete Volunteers Needed to our Annual British Showcase, Friday 26th June 2026, 15:00-22:00

Brits Assemble!! We need volunteers to support our annual showcase of all things British.... BRITFete!

If you can spare an hour or two to get involved, please sign up here or by scanning the QR code in the poster.

We may not be able to guarantee the Belgian weather but we can guarantee that you will have fun.

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

BELGIUM: Back on Senne at the Sewer Museum, from now until 3rd January 2027

It is commonly said that Belgium has a Museum for Everything, but did you know that this country is home to a Sewer Museum?

Remi the Rat from Disney's Ratatouille may spring to mind, but it is in fact true, and Brussels is the location for this fascinating place. And from now until early-January 2027, Back on Senne is an exhibition that unlocks the hidden river beneath its premises. Projections, spatial sound and laser beams immerse visitors in a sensory landscape of moving light, tones and water movement. Workshops, guided walks and more are available.

The Sewer Museum is one of the 160+ museums throughout Belgium that take part in FREE Museums Sunday on the First Sunday of the Month too!

WHEN: Now until 3rd January 2027
WHERE: Anderlechtsepoort, 1000 Brussels
MORE INFORMATION: https://sewermuseum.brussels/en/

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE

BRUSSELS: Flight Exhibition, Friday 17th October 2025 until Sunday 9th August 2026

Ever wondered how to defy gravity? Short of finding Elphaba’s copy of the Grimmerie, why not pop along to the Museum of Natural Sciences to discover just how animals and humans can soar above the clouds without broomstick or magic.

Nature meets technology at this fascinating exhibition. Youngsters will also get a chance to make their own paper aeroplane soar too! Suitable for ages 10 and upwards.

WHEN: Friday 17th October 2025 until Sunday 9th August 2026

WHERE: Natural Sciences Museum, Rue Vautier 29, 1000 Brussels.

MORE INFORMATION: https://www.naturalsciences.be/en/museum/exhibitions-activities/exhibitions/flight

 

Information provided by SHAPE HIVE