Open Bedrijvendag returns across Flanders for its 36th edition, offering the public a rare behind-the-scenes look at dozens of companies on Sunday, September 29, 2026. Organizers have curated a diverse roster of participating sites, ranging from high-speed rail simulators and military training grounds to manufacturing plants and specialty food producers.
Inside Belgium’s First Guide Dog Training Center in Koksijde
At the Hendrik Noterdaemestraat in Koksijde, the Vrienden der Blinden association opens the doors to Belgium’s very first guide dog training center. Visitors can observe how young puppies are raised and trained for assistance work. The facility offers live demonstrations and lets attendees walk through a sensory obstacle course wearing simulation tools to understand visual impairments firsthand.
Eurostar Cockpits and Rail Control in Brussels
Rail enthusiasts can visit the Marcel Broodthaersplein in Brussels to test an Eurostar train simulator. While operators will not hit 300 kilometers per hour on active passenger tracks during the event, participants get realistic cockpit experience and tours of the operational control center.
Playground Manufacturing and Custom Equipment in Mol
Families heading to Mariëndal in Mol can tour the production facilities of playground equipment manufacturer Idemax. The firm builds balance courses, picnic tables, and custom play structures, giving children open access to test equipment while parents learn about the manufacturing process.
Commercial Drone Piloting and Flight Cages in Denderleeuw
At the Business Park Wildebeek in Denderleeuw, DroneDepot hosts flight demonstrations and educational workshops on commercial drone piloting. Visitors can test drone simulators and fly mini-quadcopters inside a specialized safety flight cage.
Six Decades of Hair Care Production in Middelkerke
Family-owned manufacturer Carin Haircosmetics welcomes visitors to its Kalkaertweg facility in Middelkerke, where hair care products have been produced for over 60 years. Specialists demonstrate how bleaching powders and hair colorings are formulated, and children can mix their own custom shampoo bottles.
Restricted Access at the Schaffen Military Base in Diest
The First Parachute Battalion at the Schaffen military base on Karrestraat in Diest opens its gates to show daily operations and training protocols for Belgian paracommando units. Photography and video recording are strictly prohibited throughout the tour.
Chocolate, Liqueurs, and Live Music in Serskamp
Food producers open their kitchens as well, including family business De Klok on Wanzelesteenweg in Serskamp. Known for making chocolate, advocaat, and liqueurs, the site features product tastings alongside a live musical performance by Chris Corn, known from television singing competitions.
Penalty Kicks and Greenhouse Glass Testing in Genk
Visitors to Euro-Serre on Geleenlaan in Genk can tour show gardens and vegetable greenhouses. To demonstrate product durability, the company invites every guest to kick one penalty shot directly against a greenhouse glass panel, offering a goodie bag to anyone who manages to break it.
Professional Vehicle Restoration and Detailing in Mechelen
Car care specialist WAS-CO on Egide Walschaertsstraat in Mechelen demonstrates professional vehicle restoration techniques. Technicians show polishing, waxing, and paint repair processes designed to return automobiles to showroom condition.
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