Choosing from the hundreds of concerts taking place in Belgium each month to create a list is nearly impossible. For this new season, we’ve decided to feature two separate lists: The first, titled ‘Big Shows,’ will cover concerts in venues with a capacity of over 1,000. The second, named ‘Local Scene,’ will spotlight smaller venues and local promoters, showcasing performances by local artists as well as international acts. Without further ado, here is our selection of the 15 Big Shows not to be missed in Belgium in October 2024.
1. Stone – Trix – 01 October
Liverpool’s Stone is bringing their signature mix of indie rock, grunge, and punk to Trix. Known for raw, energetic live shows and socially conscious lyrics, this rising band is gaining traction with each performance. Fans of gritty, high-energy rock will find themselves right at home as Stone continues to solidify their place in the UK’s vibrant music scene.
2. Bryan Adams – Forest National – 03 October
Get ready for a night of timeless rock with Bryan Adams. With hits like “Summer of ’69” and “Heaven,” this Canadian legend continues to deliver unforgettable performances. Bryan Adams’ ability to engage crowds with his rock anthems and ballads ensures this show will be packed with nostalgia and energy, a must for fans of classic rock.
3. Eivør – Ancienne Belgique – 04 October
Eivør brings her ethereal blend of Nordic folk and electronica to Ancienne Belgique. With a haunting voice and atmospheric soundscapes, her live shows are immersive and emotionally charged. The Faroese singer-songwriter will captivate the audience with songs that delve deep into personal and mythological themes, making this performance a unique musical journey.
4. The Driver Era – La Madeleine – 06 October
Indie-pop sensation The Driver Era, led by brothers Ross and Rocky Lynch, will take the stage at La Madeleine. Known for their catchy hooks and genre-blending sound, the duo’s performance promises to be a high-energy mix of alternative rock, synth-pop, and funk. Their fresh sound and dynamic presence have gained them a dedicated following, making this a show not to miss.
5. Wallows – Ancienne Belgique – 07 and 08 October
Wallows returns to Belgium for two consecutive nights at Ancienne Belgique, offering fans a chance to catch their infectious indie rock sound live. With hits like “Are You Bored Yet?” and a reputation for delivering upbeat and immersive shows, Wallows will fill the venue with their dreamy, feel-good vibes. Expect a setlist full of hits and sing-along moments.
6. Baloji – Ancienne Belgique – 13 October
Belgian-Congolese artist Baloji fuses Afrobeat, electronic, and hip-hop influences in an electrifying live show. His performances are a celebration of identity, culture, and musical experimentation. Known for his charismatic stage presence, Baloji’s concert is set to be a colorful, dynamic experience blending global sounds with thought-provoking lyrics.
7. Caravan Palace – OM – 13 October
Electro-swing pioneers Caravan Palace are sure to get the crowd moving at OM. Their live shows are renowned for their infectious energy, blending vintage swing rhythms with modern electronic beats. With a mix of upbeat tunes and charismatic performances, this concert promises to be an unmissable dance party that will transport the audience back in time with a futuristic twist.
8. Glass Animals – Forest National – 16 October
Fresh off the success of their critically acclaimed album Dreamland, Glass Animals is set to bring their eclectic, psychedelic pop sound to Forest National. Known for their hypnotic live shows and innovative approach to pop music, this performance will be packed with hits like “Heat Waves” and captivating visual elements. It’s a must-see for fans of alt-pop.
9. KÄÄRIJÄ – La Madeleine – 16 October
KÄÄRIJÄ, the Finnish metal-rap sensation, is bringing his explosive performance to La Madeleine. After making waves in Eurovision with his high-energy stage presence and bold musical fusion, KÄÄRIJÄ’s live show is guaranteed to be an unpredictable, thrilling ride across genres. Expect a theatrical performance packed with surprises and non-stop energy.
10. Duff McKagan – OM – 19 October
Rock legend Duff McKagan, best known as the bassist for Guns N’ Roses, takes the stage at OM for a night of gritty rock with personal depth. His solo work blends punk influences with introspective songwriting, offering fans a rare chance to see a different side of this iconic musician. This show will be a treat for rock enthusiasts and longtime GNR fans alike.
11. The Ghost Inside – Ancienne Belgique – 20 October
Metalcore powerhouse The Ghost Inside is bringing their resilient, emotionally charged sound to Ancienne Belgique. Known for overcoming a devastating bus accident and coming back stronger, their performances are a cathartic mix of raw intensity and hope. Fans of metalcore will be treated to a powerful show filled with heavy breakdowns and emotional highs.
12. Starset – Trix – 22 October
Sci-fi rock band Starset brings their cinematic, futuristic sound to Trix. Known for blending rock with electronic elements and creating a narrative-driven experience, their live shows are more than just concerts—they’re an immersive journey through space and time. For fans of concept rock and elaborate visual effects, this performance is set to be a spectacular event.
13. Alien Ant Farm + CKY – Trix – 23 October
Get ready for a nostalgic night with Alien Ant Farm and CKY at Trix. Alien Ant Farm, famous for their cover of “Smooth Criminal,” will bring their alt-metal energy, while CKY’s blend of skate-punk and hard rock will add to the intensity. This double bill is a throwback to the early 2000s and promises to be a night of heavy riffs and infectious energy.
14. Sum 41 – ING Arena – 23 October
Sum 41 is embarking on their farewell tour, and Belgium gets a stop at the ING Arena. After years of delivering pop-punk anthems, the Canadian band is set to go out with a bang. Expect a night of mosh pits and nostalgia as they perform hits like “Fat Lip” and “In Too Deep.” This is a must-attend show for fans of pop-punk who want to bid farewell to a genre-defining band.
15. Seasick Steve – Ancienne Belgique – 24 October
Blues sensation Seasick Steve will take over Ancienne Belgique with his raw, foot-stomping sound. Known for his authentic style and ability to turn simple instruments into powerful blues experiences, Seasick Steve’s live shows are full of heart and soul. His gravelly voice and heartfelt stories make for a warm, intimate evening of timeless blues.
16. NIKI – La Madeleine – 27 October
Indonesian singer-songwriter NIKI is one of the breakout stars of the global R&B scene, and her performance at La Madeleine promises to be an emotional journey. With her soulful voice and ability to blend pop, R&B, and indie influences, NIKI’s live shows are known for their vulnerability and authenticity. Fans can expect a night of deeply personal songs and unforgettable performances.
17. Beartooth – Ancienne Belgique – 28 and 29 October
Metalcore fans are in for a treat as Beartooth returns to Belgium with two back-to-back performances at Ancienne Belgique. Known for their explosive energy and cathartic lyrics, Beartooth’s live shows are a whirlwind of emotion and intensity. With mosh pits, heavy breakdowns, and frontman Caleb Shomo’s raw vocals, this concert is a must for fans of heavy music.
18. The Last Dinner Party – Cirque Royal – 29 October
London’s avant-garde quintet The Last Dinner Party brings their baroque-pop aesthetic to Cirque Royal. Known for blending classical influences with modern indie rock, their theatrical performances and rich harmonies create a dreamlike atmosphere. Their rising popularity makes this an excellent opportunity to catch a band that’s quickly becoming a standout in the indie scene.
19. Cigarettes After Sex – Forest National – 29 October
The dreamy, ambient sound of Cigarettes After Sex is perfectly suited for Forest National’s atmosphere. With their slow, romantic melodies and hypnotic stage presence, the band’s live shows feel like a lullaby for the soul. Frontman Greg Gonzalez’s soothing voice paired with minimalist instrumentation will make for a captivating and intimate concert experience.
20. Kamelot – Trix – 30 October
Symphonic metal band Kamelot will bring their epic, operatic sound to Trix. Known for their grandiose live performances and powerful melodies, Kamelot combines soaring vocals with orchestral arrangements to create a larger-than-life experience. Fans of symphonic and gothic metal won’t want to miss this theatrical and intense concert that feels like a musical journey into darkness.
This list represents only a portion of the vast selection available in Belgium and is also influenced by our own musical tastes. Naturally, there are many other “Big Shows” this month that you can explore in our agenda. Feel free to leave a comment on our Facebook or Instagram about the shows you’re excited to see in October — whether they’re on this list or not!”