Molenbeek aims for EU capital of culture crown in 2030

Molenfest 2025 is all set to bring the vibrant celebrations of Molenbeek’s diversity, spotlighting its creative talent and culture.

The festival is part of the efforts to shed troubled past and rebrand itself as it prepares to bid for the prestigious title of European Capital of Culture in 2030.

Molenbeek, a district in Brussels, is making every effort possible to be the European Capital of Culture in 2030 (ECOC 2030).

For this goal, the district has been transforming day in, day out to showcase its diversity, rich cultural history, and artistic creativity known all over the world.

Molenfestfest 2025 is the heartbeat behind Molenbeek’s cultural revival, bringing together world-famous artists and local residents from 140 nationalities to co-create a vibrant festival experience that showcases stunning costumes, innovative choreography, and melodious music.

For the event organizers, this second edition provides a chance to spotlight Molenbeek’s cultural richness and artistic creativity, which further cements its quest to become the European Capital of Culture in 2030.

ECOC is an initiative that is funded by the EU, which aims to celebrate cultural diversity, fuel urban growth, and bring cultural and socio-economic benefits to the city.

Molenbeek’s quest for European Capital of Culture 2030 exhibits its cultural diversity woven in rich heritage, showcasing 16 iconic monuments and 9 historical sites.

The European Capital of Culture title will be announced on September 24, 2025, for one of the three finalist cities in Belgium: Molenbeek, Namur, or Leuven.