The tradition of eating sausage rolls (worstenbrood) and apple dumplings (appelbollen) in Antwerp is inextricably linked to Verloren Maandag (Lost Monday). This falls on the first Monday after the first Sunday following Epiphany (January 6th).
While the exact origin is a mix of history and folklore, there are three primary theories:
1. Swearing-in of Officials (Verzworen Maandag)
In the Middle Ages, this was the day city officials took their oaths of office. Because this was accompanied by grand celebrations, very little work was done—the day was effectively “lost” for labor. To keep costs down for the city treasury, officials were served a cheap but filling snack: meat wrapped in bread.
2. Guilds and Innkeepers
In the 18th century, craft guilds held their New Year’s receptions on this day. After reading the guild records, the craftsmen would head to the local inns. Innkeepers wanted their guests to stay and drink as long as possible, so they served cheap, salty snacks to build up a thirst. A sausage rolled in bread dough was the perfect, budget-friendly solution.
3. Dockworkers and “Lost” Meat
Another popular explanation comes from the Port of Antwerp. After the expensive Christmas and New Year holidays, dockworkers were often given a treat by their employers. Legend has it that butchers and bakers used their “lost” leftovers for this occasion unsold meat was wrapped in dough to make it appetizing and warm again.
Double Sausage Rolls: In Antwerp, it is traditional to eat a “double” sausage roll (with two sausages side-by-side), symbolizing extra generosity on this festive day.
Apple Dumplings: The apple dumpling (appelbol) appeared later, likely as a sweet alternative for those who didn’t eat meat or as a treat to round off the meal.
Free in Pubs: Even today, many authentic Antwerp neighborhood pubs still serve a free sausage roll with your beer on Lost Monday.
Cozy Antwerp: Your Ultimate Guide to the City’s Winter Charm
The air is crisp, the lights are twinkling, and the scent of glühwein is drifting through the historic alleys. While Antwerp is a jewel year-round, winter transforms it into a magical landscape where history, culture, and festive cheer combine.
If you’re planning a visit when the temperatures drop, here is your essential guide to enjoying the best of the city, both indoors and out!
1. The Magic of “Winter in Antwerp”
Antwerp’s main winter festival is the heartbeat of the city during the cold months, spreading joy across the historic center:
Christmas Market & Glühwein: The Grote Markt and surrounding squares (like Handschoenmarkt and Suikerrui) host chalets selling everything from handcrafted gifts to delicious Belgian treats. Grab a cup of warm Glühwein or local Jenever (Belgian gin) to keep warm.
Ice Skating: Lace up your skates at the picturesque Groenplaats, where a large covered ice rink surrounds the statue of Peter Paul Rubens—a truly unique skating experience.
Ferris Wheel Views: Head to Steenplein by the river Scheldt to take a ride on the iconic Ferris wheel. The panoramic view of the illuminated city and the festival lights is breathtakingly romantic.
New Year’s Fireworks: The city rings in the New Year with a spectacular fireworks display over the Scheldt, visible from the riverbanks.
2. Warm Up with Culture: Museum Hopping
Winter is the perfect time to dive into Antwerp’s world-class indoor culture and history:
KMSKA (Royal Museum of Fine Arts) to view stunning works by Peter Paul Rubens and other Flemish Masters with a stunning expo Magritte, la ligne de vie.
A Journey of Migration: Explore the poignant stories of European emigrants at the Red Star Line Museum, housed in the original shipping company’s warehouses by the river.
Fashion Forward: Dive into the city’s status as a global style hub at MoMu (Fashion Museum Antwerp), known for its cutting-edge exhibitions.
Book Lover’s Dream: The Plantin-Moretus Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the only remaining printing workshop and publishing house in the world from the 16th century—a cozy, historical gem.
3. Savour the Belgian Flavors
Antwerp is a culinary paradise, and winter offers the best excuse to indulge in comforting warmth:
Chocolate Nation: Visit the world’s largest Belgian chocolate museum near Central Station. You’ll learn about production and, more importantly, taste all the chocolate your heart desires!
Brewery Tours: Warm up from the inside out with a tour and tasting at the De Koninck City Brewery or the Antwerpse Brouw Compagnie (home of Seefbier).
The Coziest Cafés: Seek refuge in one of the city’s legendary bruine cafés (brown cafés). The famous Elfde Gebod near the Cathedral, stuffed with religious statues, offers a unique and cozy setting for sampling Belgian beers.
Lost Monday (Verloren Maandag): If you visit in early January, don’t miss the tradition of eating Worstenbrood (sausage rolls) and Appelbollen (baked apples wrapped in pastry) on the first Monday after January 6th!
4. Architectural Wonders & Hidden Views
Sometimes the most rewarding activity is simply walking and admiring the city’s structures:
The Railway Cathedral: Start your exploration at Antwerp Central Station, widely considered one of the most beautiful train stations in the world. Its sheer opulence is a must-see.
Free Panorama: For a spectacular winter view, head to the top floor of the MAS (Museum aan de Stroom). The 360-degree panorama of the city and the frozen port is free and open even when the museum is closed.
Historic Streets: Take one of our guided walking tours to discover the unique architectural styles of Zurenborg or the medieval history of the Old Town, guided by a local who can share the city’s stories with true passion.
Planning your winter escape? Antwerp offers the perfect blend of festive events, cultural depth, and Belgian gezelligheid (coziness).
On this United Nations World Tourism Day we are happy to present you our Passionate People! In this first episode we introduce you to Sharon who runs her boutique hotel with passion.
The B in Antwerp!
We meet Sharon on a sunny day in the courtyard of her hotel where we are enjoying a cappuccino. It is a calm and peaceful place were guests can start their day or rest after hitting the vibrant town. Read full interview here.
World Tourism Day 2019
World Tourism Day is commemorated each year on 27 September, with celebrations led by UNWTO. Its purpose is to foster awareness among the global community of tourism’s social, cultural, political and economic value and the contribution the sector can make in reaching the Sustainable Development Goals. In 2019, in line with UNWTO’s overarching focus on skills, education and jobs throughout the year, World Tourism Day will be a celebration on the topic ‘Tourism and Jobs: a better future for all’. (source: United Nations World Tourism Organization). Read more about this topic.
On this day, in 1640, Pieter Paul Rubens died. His legacy is alive and kicking and still rocks on. Rubens Inspires! is a festival which kick-offs this weekend. He will host you through various events until the end of this year.
There is so much to see and do, you can find an overview right here.
Below are some of our favorites. Why? Baroque is right in the face, in the action. Or in a contemporary view: discover what is in or out of your comfort-zone and learn how to deal with it.
Een belevenis onder de kerstboom? Je bepaalt zelf de prijs en wij maken een bon voor een wandeling op maat voor diegene die je cadeau in ontvangst mag nemen.
Neem contact met ons op voor meer info en voorwaarden.
In de Koninklijke Musea voor Schone Kunsten van België opent op vrijdag 13 oktober de tentoonstelling “Magritte, Broodthaers & de hedendaagse kunst”. Die toont het beroemde werk “Ceci n’est pas une pipe” dat voor het eerst sinds 1971 naar ons land terugkeert.
Antwerp Guides was vrijwilliger tijdens het gidsen van Cinema National.
Meer dan 4307 nieuwsgierigen kwamen rondkijken, het hoogst aantal bezoekers van alle locaties in de provincie Antwerpen. In september 2018 hopen ze opniew de deuren te openen.
Antwerpen een hele dag voor voetgangers en fietsers!
Antwerp Guides 