The triennial Beer and Hops Festival always guarantees a packed festival marquee on the 'Oudstrijdersplein', a thrilling Hop Queen election, and the colourful Hop Procession as the grand finale. The city council, along with many associations, schools and volunteers, work together enthusiastically to deliver a top-class festival weekend.
Fraternisation on Friday
A cheerful children's parade kicks off the festive weekend. In the evening, you'll feel like you're in a Munich beer hall during the fraternisation evening with Poperinge’s twin towns.
Spectacular Saturday
On Saturday afternoon, marching bands from home and abroad fill the town centre streets, leading to a fantastic Taptoe performance on the 'Paardenmarkt'. In the evening, trios compete for the coveted crown of Hop Queen.
Traditional Sunday
The Hop Procession on Sunday afternoon is the highlight of the weekend. This colourful spectacle tells the story of hops in all its facets. More than 1,300 participants portray the global hop journey, the history of the pickers, and the workings of manual harvesting. As evening falls, a 'Hommelpap feast' is held on the main square.
