Antwerp‘s iconic Sinksenfoor or Pentecost Fair will return for its 2026 edition on 23 May at the Spoor Oost site in Borgerhout, offering five weeks of entertainment until 28 June. The annual event, which begins during the Pentecost weekend, transforms the 2,000-meter-long site into a vibrant festival ground featuring spectacular attractions, delicious food, and family entertainment for visitors of all ages.
New attractions for 2026
This year’s fair will showcase a blend of beloved classics and three exciting new attractions designed to thrill visitors. The first, Thrill Ride Kong, promises to be the event’s new centerpiece, combining heart-pounding speed with spectacular effects. The attraction takes riders through razor-sharp turns, unexpected drops, and impressive special effects that engage all the senses, creating an unforgettable experience for adrenaline seekers and families alike.
The second new addition is Rolling Rock, a Bidule-type attraction that has already proven to be a crowd favorite at other European fairs. This sensation combines speed, rhythm, and visual spectacle as it races over undulating rails while powerful music beats pulse through the speakers. The centrifugal forces create the exhilarating sensation of potentially flying out of the curves, though safety harnesses ensure all riders remain securely in place throughout the thrilling journey.
The third new feature is a traditional rope ladder attraction, an ultimate test of balance and coordination. Participants must reach the top without tipping over halfway, providing both a challenging activity and entertaining spectacle for onlookers.
Tradition and community spirit
All the traditional stalls that have made Sinksenfoor a success year after year will return, with 147 stalls in total, including 39 dedicated to food and beverages. Visitors can indulge in a wide variety of savory and sweet treats, ensuring that the fair caters to all tastes.
Alderman for Markets and Fairs Johan Klaps (N-VA) expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming edition, stating that “Sinksenfoor is and remains a place where stories are created. Year after year, we see how hundreds of thousands of visitors come together at Spoor Oost in Borgerhout to enjoy the atmosphere, excitement, and socializing. With a route of almost two kilometers, 147 stalls, and new crowd-pullers, we continue to build a fair that makes tradition and innovation tangible. This way, Sinksenfoor remains not only a celebration for young and old but also a strong calling card for our city.”
Official opening and access points
The official opening ceremony will take place on Saturday, 23 May at 14:30, with a special tour led by Mayor Els van Doesburg (N-VA), Alderman Johan Klaps, and a delegation of fair stallholders.
Sinksenfoor 2026 features three main entrances to accommodate the expected large crowds. The North Entrance, located at the corner of Schijnpoortweg and Noordersingel, serves as the main entrance and is conveniently situated near the Schijnpoort metro station, offering ample bicycle parking for those choosing eco-friendly transportation.
The East Entrance on Noordersingel provides access to the taxi stand, paid parking facilities, and designated parking spaces for visitors with disabilities.
The South Entrance on Buurtspoorweglei also offers extensive bicycle parking.
Opening hours and visitor information
The fair’s opening hours have been carefully scheduled to accommodate different visitor preferences. On weekdays, except Wednesdays, the fair opens at 16:00. On Wednesdays and weekends, visitors can enter from 14:00. Fridays feature extended hours until 01:00, while Saturdays remain open until 02:00. All other days close at midnight, with special arrangements for Pentecost Sunday and Monday.
The detailed schedule is as follows: Monday from 16:00 to midnight except on Pentecost Monday 25 May when it opens at 14:00; Tuesday from 16:00 to midnight; Wednesday from 14:00 to midnight; Thursday from 16:00 to midnight; Friday from 16:00 to 01:00; Saturday from 14:00 to 02:00; and Sunday from 14:00 to midnight except on Pentecost Sunday 24 May when it closes at 01:00.
To help visitors plan their journey, the website http://www.slimnaarantwerpen.be offers comprehensive information including route planning, a site map, walking distance charts, and public transport details.
Transport and parking
Fair organizers strongly recommend that visitors travel by foot, bicycle, or public transport, as various tram lines stop near the site. For those who prefer to drive, combination tickets with P+R and De Lijn services are available at https://www.delijn.be/nl/content/tickets/combiticket-antwerpen/. It is important to note that the Spoor Oost site falls within Antwerp’s low-emission zone.
Parking at Noordersingel is available for €7. During the fair’s duration, paid parking in the residential areas surrounding Spoor Oost will be extended until 22:00 every day, including Sundays and public holidays, to discourage visitors from parking in those neighborhoods. Parking attendants will distribute flyers encouraging the use of alternative transportation methods.
For this year’s edition, paid parking within the Singel will also be extended to 22:00 on Sundays and public holidays in parts of the Stuivenberg and Borgerhout Intra Muros North neighbourhoods, specifically in parking zone AN076.
The fairground is designated as a no-go zone for electric scooters, whether shared or private. While visitors are permitted to arrive by scooter, they are not allowed to ride on the fairground itself. Scooters can be parked in the designated bicycle parking areas at the entrances.
Safety and regulations
Sinksenfoor 2026 will operate under strict noise regulations and constant supervision to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
Noise levels will be limited to a maximum of 75 dB(A) from 22:00 and 70 dB(A) from 23:30. Regular noise measurements will be conducted, and all sound sources must be silent at least 30 minutes before the official closing time each day.
City supervisors and police officers, both in uniform and plain clothes, will be present on the site and in the surrounding area from opening until after closing time every day to monitor compliance with all regulations and maintain public safety.
More information about Sinksenfoor 2026, including updates and additional details, can be found on the official website at sinksenfoor.antwerpen.be.