Roll Out the … Flower Carpet?

Brussels' Biennial Floral Spectacle Returns

Article & Photography by Stacey Gualandi

I’ve covered hundreds of red carpet events in my career, but by far, one of the most incredible — and best-smelling — carpet rollouts I've ever witnessed is the “Flower Carpet” in Brussels, Belgium.

My husband and I were very fortunate to unknowingly plan a trip to the “Capital City of Europe” during the 24th biennial Flower Carpet, held Aug. 13-16.

First created in 1971, the breathtaking ephemeral display has taken over the historic Grand-Place every other year since 1986 and continues to attract hordes of floral fans from around the world.

This year’s temporary artistic fresco honored Japan, the Land of the Rising Sun, for the second time. The first collaboration took place 10 years ago. It also marked the 160th anniversary of friendship and diplomatic relations between Japan and Belgium.

“There are very few countries that have never fought or been in conflict during 160 years,” said Takeshi Osuga, Japan’s ambassador to Belgium. “That is something very, very special.”

The design theme was inspired by Japanese ukiyo-e artist Hokusai’s famous 1831 woodblock print, “The Great Wave off Kanagawa.”

The modern reinterpretation by Japanese artist Hiro Sugiyama and his collective, Enlightenment, “combined Japanese heritage, digital creativity and floral craftsmanship.”

“[Hokusai’s] works are known for their bold compositions and beautiful colors,” Sugiyama said of the largest work he has ever created. “I adapted those elements in a contemporary way, using a limited number of flower colors available.”

Sugiyama said he used warm tones to create a cheerful and uplifting palette, hoping to make people happy when they see the warmer colors and remember the Flower Carpet long after it is over.

So, just how did this 70-by-24-meter carpet come to full bloom, you ask?

It took 100 volunteers, more than 700,000 Belgian-grown dahlias and less than six hours to complete. I arrived just as the volunteers were applauding their finished floral masterpiece.

Every night of the four-day event, the city celebrated with a gorgeous sound-and-light show.

And as an added bonus, for the first time, a second flower carpet was installed inside the Bourse, also known as the Brussels Stock Exchange. It was inspired by hops, “a symbol of Belgium’s brewing heritage.”

I must say a huge “merci beaucoup” to the organizers for allowing us to join the media high above on the Brussels Town Hall balcony before it officially opened to the public! We are so grateful for this iconic experience. (I will never forget it, Mr. Sugiyama!)

The Great Wave has now come and gone, so you’ll have to wait for the next rollout in 2028!

To learn more, visit flowercarpet.brussels/en.