Skip to main content
Strandbloemen

The Belgian coast, and Zeebrugge, keeps traditions alive. For example, during the summer, children sell paper flowers on the beach in exchange for shells. The tradition received a place on the Flanders Inventory of Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Flowers made of crêpe paper on wooden sticks with metal wire: you can find them in the summer on the coast of Zeebrugge. In exchange for shells, you can 'buy' these flowers from proud children. Selling these beach flowers is a unique tradition on the Belgian coast. In 2021, the tradition was recognised as Coastal Heritage. You might also come across a 'flower stall' during your walk along the beach. Put some shells in your pockets so you're ready!