Brussels’ popular Bright Festival, renowned for its spectacular light displays, will host a special fundraising mixer between February 13 and 16.
Taking place across iconic locations in the heart of the Belgian capital, this year’s event promises not only mesmerizing art installations but also the opportunity to contribute to a noble cause.
The Bright Festival, an annual celebration of light and art, attracts thousands of visitors to explore a network of outdoor installations set up by international artists.
With half a million visitors last year, the event has become one of the city’s most beloved cultural happenings. Attendees can either follow the European Route, a 3-km stretch, or the Royal Route, covering 4.5 km, to view nearly 20 stunning light displays.
In the midst of the festival’s visual extravaganza, Rotary Club Brussels Cantersteen, an English-speaking branch of the American philanthropic organization, is adding a charitable touch.
For four evenings, from 18:30 to 23:00, the Rotary will host a refreshment chalet situated in the park opposite the Saint Michael and Saint Gudula Cathedral, where one of the most captivating light installations will be on display.
The event is open to everyone, with attendees invited to enjoy a range of drinks, including prosecco, wine, and soft beverages, while supporting a good cause.
All proceeds from the chalet’s sales will go toward purchasing an e-cargo bike for Serve the City, a Brussels-based nonprofit dedicated to helping vulnerable individuals, including the elderly, homeless, children, people with disabilities, and asylum seekers.
Angela Dansby, a member of Rotary Club Brussels Cantersteen, highlighted the significance of the fundraiser: “The Bright Festival is one of the best events that Brussels has to offer, particularly in the middle of winter as a way to brighten up your spirits,” she told The Brussels Times.
“Our chalet will be perfectly positioned right across from the cathedral. Why not have a drink and contribute to a local charity that gives back to the community while enjoying the show?”
Nathan Torrini, Executive Director of Serve the City Brussels, emphasized the importance of the e-cargo bike in improving the organization’s reach and sustainability.
The bike will replace a van, enabling volunteers to more efficiently serve communities in need, particularly in areas that are harder to access, such as parks where they provide hot drinks and food to the homeless.
“The money raised will go towards a new e-cargo bike that will help us support more people in need across Brussels in a faster and more sustainable way,” Torrini said. “We truly appreciate the Rotary Club’s ongoing support and commitment to our mission.”
Serve the City operates with the help of over 4,000 volunteers, offering 48 volunteering opportunities each week.
The organization runs several programs, including preparing meals at their Community Kitchen in Ixelles, distributing Solidarity Breakfast to asylum seekers, and preparing lunch bags at their Humanitarian Hub near the canal.
The fundraiser also highlights the continued collaboration between the Rotary Club and Serve the City.
The Rotary’s membership, consisting of individuals from 15 different nationalities, fosters a diverse and culturally rich environment, and members have regularly volunteered for Serve the City’s initiatives.
“Our chapter is the only English-speaking one in Belgium. It’s great because you learn so much from each other culturally,” said Dansby. “It’s all about doing good for others, raising money, and benefiting charitable organizations, whether locally or globally.”
The Bright Festival, which combines art, culture, and philanthropy, offers an opportunity for Brussels residents and visitors alike to enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere while giving back to those in need.
