Discovering Leuven’s Best Activities
Leuven is a city full of culture, history, and exciting activities for all ages. Whether you’re a visitor exploring its highlights or a local looking for something new, Leuven offers festivals, skate parks, creative spaces, and historic landmarks that make the city truly unique.
1. Leuven Fair: Tradition Meets Fun
Held every September at Ladeuzeplein and Herbert Hooverplein, the Leuven Fair is a beloved event with bumper cars, carousels, duck-fishing games, and delicious treats like smoutebollen, waffles, and cotton candy. A colourful, family-friendly tradition not to be missed.
2. Skate Parks: Thrills for Young & Old
Leuven’s skate parks are perfect for beginners and pros. Highlights include:
-
The outdoor park near Sportoase and the city cemetery.
-
Stelplaats, an indoor skate park and youth culture hub with a bar, restaurant, and nightclub.
-
The renovated ’t Fort skate park with a modern track and basketball court.
-
Classic parks in Kessel-Lo and near Boudewijn Stadium.
3. SpeelOdroom: A Space for the Little Ones
Located at Ravenstraat 69, SpeelOdroom is designed for children under four. Based on Françoise Dolto’s maison verte concept, it provides a playful environment for children and a supportive community for parents. Open Tuesday and Friday mornings (plus the first Saturday of each month).
4. Circus in Motion: Learning Through Play
Founded in 1993, Circus in Motion is now one of Europe’s largest circus schools. Offering lessons, workshops, and performances, it welcomes over 1,000 members each year. Don’t miss the annual CIRKL Festival in May or the youth circus event CirkOOH! CirKAAH!.
5. Herbert Hooverplein Fountain: History & Refreshment
The fountain at Herbert Hooverplein combines history with fun. Its 18-meter stone design is based on Jacob van Deventer’s 1550 city map. Equipped with sensors, the fountain adjusts its spray dynamically and lights up beautifully at night.
Sensors adjust the fountain’s spray based on the number of people in the square, creating a dynamic water display. The fountain is also part of a project to highlight Leuven’s historic city walls, built around 1160 with 31 towers, remnants of which can still be seen in the city park, Handbooghof, and the Hertogensite.
Looking to remember your trip to Leuven? Explore our unique souvenir collection here
Source: MIN, Eric, LEUVEN ,( Een gids voor thuisblijvers en passanten), Luster, 2023.
Photos by Aslı Tezcan
