KOOZA
KOOZA signals a return to the origins of Cirque du Soleil, combining two circus traditions – acrobatic performance and the art of clowning. It tells the story of The Innocent, a melancholy loner in search of his place in the world, exploring themes of fear, identity, recognition and power. The Innocent’s journey brings him into contact with a panoply of comic characters such as the King, the Trickster, the Pickpocket, and the Obnoxious Tourist and his Bad Dog. The show, packed with surprises, thrills, chills, is taking place in a big tent next to the train station. 19 July to 18 August. Tickets: from €34.
www.cirquedusoleil.com
World Bol
The international beach firework festival will light up northern skies until the end of August. Located on Strand van Duinbergen, the show has been wowing spectators since its debut 35 years ago. July 19-27 August. Free.
www.knokkeheist.com
Art Nocturne Knocke
Held in two venues – CC Scharpoord and Hotel la Réserve –along the banks of the Zegemeer lake, Art Nocturne Knocke has become one of the most prestigious arts & antiques fairs of the European summer season. 10-18 August. Tickets: €15 (under-18 free).
Sculpture Link
Part of Art Nocturne Knocke, this sculpture walk wends its way through the streets. Organized in cooperation with Galerie Balastra, this year (its 20th anniversary) Sculpture Link will exhibit, among others, the works of sculptors Johan Baudart, Giovanni Gelmi and Jean François Jans.
These monumental sculptures will lead visitors along the Zeedijk (boardwalk) from Het Zoute and Duinbergen, passing along Hotel La Réserve and skirting the Zegemeer Lake towards the Scharpoord Cultural Centre. From 18 June to 18 August.
Folklore market
At the height of the summer, the ever-popular Folklore market is held in the town centre every Thursday afternoon. Extending several blocks, the market features old crafts, demonstrations, and live entertainment, including local folk dancing – and you can even have your bicycle engraved! Until 22 August.
International Fireworks Festival
Located on Strand van Duinbergen, the internationally acclaimed fireworks festival has been wowing spectators since its debut 35 years ago. The only fireworks festival on the North Sea coast, the event is a must see for any who enjoy music and fireworks. August 19-27.
International Cartoon Festival
Each year since its premiere in 1961, Knokke hosts the International Cartoon Festival, in which more than 300 cartoons from around the world are showcased in the city’s Cartoon Pavilion. Luring in cartoon lovers from near and far, the festival will run until 15 September.
www.cartoonfestival.be
Folklore Market: Each Thursday in July and August one is able to venture to Center Heist between 14h and 18h to experience the ever-popular Folklore Market. Extending several blocks, the market features old crafts, demonstrations, and live entertainment. www.knokke-heist.info
PHOTO: Sculpture Link: Giovanni Gelmi – Galerie Balastra
