Antwerp On Air 2024 met planeten Aarde en Maan in Handelsbeurs Antwerpen

A Sunday Full of Discoveries: Adventures in Antwerp

Events

Sunday, June 2, began with a gray forecast, but ended as a colorful adventure in the vibrant city of Antwerp. A city where there is always something going on, even on a seemingly quiet Sunday. This time we were treated to an array of events that made the heart of the city buzz, including “Antwerp Open Air,” the Swan Market in the Grand Place and an encounter with the imposing Colombian Tallship “ARC Gloria,” majestically moored at the quay at “Het Steen”.

Antwerp’s historic Grand Place was transformed into a paradise for lovers of creativity and craftsmanship during the Swan Market. This free lifestyle market offered an array of handmade and vintage products, trendy accessories, organic food and an irresistible atmosphere. As visitors strolled among the stalls, they were surrounded by live music and the enticing smell of delicious food. There was even a special children’s zone for the youngest visitors, so the whole family could enjoy this unique experience.

Swan Market at Antwerp city's Grand Place
Swan Market at Antwerp city’s Grand Place
Photo Verschueren Eddy

The imposing ARC Gloria, the flagship of the Colombian Navy, showed off along the Scheldt Quays, offering a glimpse of the maritime history and close ties between Antwerp and Colombia. As a 56-meter-long three-masted barque dating back to 1968, the ship represents both strength and elegance. Visitors had the opportunity to participate in tours and discover life aboard this majestic ship, where 120 crew members, including many trainees, develop their skills in a unique maritime environment.
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Tallship ARC Gloria in Antwerp, Belgium.
Tallship ARC Gloria in Antwerp, Belgium.
Photo Verschueren Eddy
Tallship ARC Gloria in Antwerp, Belgium.
Tallship ARC Gloria in Antwerp, Belgium.
Photo Verschueren Eddy
Tallship ARC Gloria in Antwerp, Belgium.
Tallship ARC Gloria in Antwerp, Belgium.
Photo Verschueren Eddy

The link between Antwerp and Colombia goes beyond maritime trade. Antwerp is the main European import port of tropical fruits such as bananas, pineapples and avocados from Colombia. The ARC Gloria, built in Bilbao, Spain, in 1967, serves not only as an ambassador of Colombian maritime pride, but also symbolizes the close economic and cultural ties between the two regions.

Antwerp On Air 2024 in City of Antwerp (Belgium)
Antwerp On Air 2024 in City of Antwerp (Belgium)
Photo Verschueren Eddy

The Antwerp On Air festival brought an extraordinary spectacle to the streets of Antwerp, with inflatable art installations that brought the city’s architecture to life in a unique way. Led by Phil Blondé and in collaboration with local partners, this free festival filled the streets with colorful inflatable animals and other artistic creations. While visitors marveled at the sky-high inflatable sculptures, they also discovered the beautiful architectural treasures the city has to offer, a feast for the eyes as well as the soul.

Antwerp On Air 2024 with King Kong at the Farmer's Tower in City of Antwerp (Belgium)
Antwerp On Air 2024 with King Kong at the Farmer’s Tower in City of Antwerp (Belgium)
Photo Verschueren Eddy
Antwerp On Air 2024 with planets Earth and Moon at Trade Fair Antwerp
Antwerp On Air 2024 with planets Earth and Moon at Trade Fair Antwerp
Photo Verschueren Eddy
Antwerp On Air 2024 with Pink Elephants in City Party Hall Antwerp
Antwerp On Air 2024 with Pink Elephants in City Party Hall Antwerp
Photo Verschueren Eddy

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After a day of discoveries and adventures, Antwerp wrapped its arms around us and spoiled us with delicious Brussels and Liège waffles, after which we returned to our home in Mechelen, satisfied. As the city prepared to welcome the evening, we said goodbye, knowing that this day full of memories would stay with us for a long time.

Whether it graces the streets of Antwerp with colorful markets, majestic ships or artistic spectacles, one thing is certain: a day in this city is a day full of surprises and discoveries, where memories are made and adventures are experienced.

Text and photos Verschueren Eddy