The Breendonk annual market, organized by association Mibobre, has been undergoing a transformation for several years to attract both young and old. Festival leader Maarten van Rompa emphasizes that the extensive program draws many visitors.
Visitors can browse stalls from local traders offering diverse products, from artisanal wood decorations to gift items. Hunger and thirst can be quenched at stands from local associations and by street artist Ron Jaluai with his mobile cocktail bar. A flea market offers opportunities for bargain hunters.
The market also includes a horse show for various categories such as farm horses, riding horses, and ponies, with winners receiving medals and cash prizes. For children, there is a petting zoo street where they can feed animals and take donkey rides.
On Sunday, a special children's market will take place at primary school Klavertjevier, where children can bring their pets for a fun gathering. The weekend is further enhanced with a funfair, street entertainment, and meet-and-greets with comic strip characters.
A traditional Meutteworp, where stuffed animals and candy are thrown, is another highlight. The name refers to the nickname 'meuttes' (young calves) given to Breendonk residents in the nineteenth century due to the many calf traders in the village.
The market, which originally had a commercial focus since the founding of Mibobre in the fifties, was revitalized about ten years ago. The focus is now on bringing the community together with an attractive program for all ages, and annual innovations in entertainment.
Last year, the market welcomed a thousand visitors on Saturday alone. The market weekend takes place from Friday, October 9th, to Monday, October 12th. More information can be found on the Facebook page of Mibobre.
