63,000 visitors expected in Werchter for first major Belgian festival since 2019
On Sunday, for the first time in three years, a major festival kicked off in the Festival Park in Rotselaar. After two years of COVID-19, the Werchter meadow can be used to its full potential once again for Werchter Boutique. The 63,000 tickets have been sold out for a while and, like all festivals in Werchter, is focusing extra on green energy and sustainability this year.
The festival lasts for one day and features just a single stage. Antwerp hip-hop ensemble Blackwave. were the first to step onto the stage at 1.20 pm. The Belgian artist Stromae and the British band Gorillaz close out the festival on Sunday night.
Starting this summer, Werchter announced that it would be putting extra effort into reducing greenhouse gas emissions. By 2030, emissions must be halved. For example, after the festival, night trains will leave Leuven for Brussels/Ghent and Mechelen/Antwerp. To reduce waste, festivalgoers will receive a drink voucher for every 15 cups or bottles they collect.
(TOM)
© BELGA PHOTO HATIM KAGHAT