Guess who's back

With more than 50,000 students, Leuven is Belgium's student city. No wonder that the tradition of welcoming students in a festive manner on the first Thursday of the academic year originated here.

We are continuing this tradition, but with a new twist. From now on, this will be the starting signal for a new academic year, spread across various squares in the city. Unique collaborations and amazing artists will get Leuven rocking. The ideal kick-off for an unforgettable academic year. Completely free and open to everyone.

• When: Thursday 25 September 2025, from 6 p.m.
• Where: Martelarenplein, Bondgenotenlaan, Grote Markt, Oude Markt and Vismarkt
• Price: Free

Programme

6 p.m.: Kick-off with free chips & co (Martelarenplein)

Start your evening at Martelarenplein with free chips from Alma and beats from Nona Van Braeckel (StuBru).

7 p.m.: Student parade (Bondgenotenlaan)

Artists Benjamin Verdonck and Tine Van Aerschot are joining forces with Leuven students for an artistic and festive comeback. All Leuven students will play a leading role: bring your wheeled suitcase, because we are counting on you to join the parade!

The sound parade on Bondgenotenlaan will make it clear that the students are back. Behind a mobile DJ booth – created by Existenz and Atelier Circuler – we will pass by, accompanied by 20 trolleys with amplified sound. Specially designed by composer Daan Geysen, they will give you an original sound experience.

Walk along, make yourself heard and join the hype!

7.30 p.m.: State of the Student (Grote Markt)

On the Grote Markt, we turn up the volume even higher. What does it really mean to be a student in Leuven? 160 students gave their input and composer Alan Van Rompuy (aka Azerty Klavierwerke) brings the story to life. Fellow students from choirs and ensembles provide the live vibes.

None other than Kaat Van Stralen and Maya Mertens (aka Vieze Meisje) whip up the audience. You can't help but sing along.

From 7 p.m.: Party on two squares (Oude Markt and Vismarkt)

This special edition hosts not one, but two stages. Oude Markt? Still the longest bar in Europe, this time with cool scenography and great DJs who will keep the beats pumping until midnight. At the Vismarkt, Industria, VTK and Ekonomika will ensure an unforgettable evening.

Timetable Oude Markt

• 7 to 8 p.m.: yli
• 8 to 9 p.m.: séa
• 9 to 10.30 p.m.: Tjade
• 10.30 p.m. to midnight: AMBER BROOS

Timetable Vismarkt

• 8 to 9 p.m.: Jaël Ost & MagiK
• 9 to 10 p.m.: MICHAEL AMANI
• 10 to 11 p.m.: Mark with a K & MC Chucky
• 11 p.m. to midnight: Karakals

Studentenwelkom is a collaboration between KU Leuven, the city of Leuven, 30CC, LUCA School of Arts, UCLL, LOKO, Industria, Ekonomika, VTK, vzw Oude Markt, Het Depot, maakleerplek, Atelier Circuler, Existenz, Alma and vzw Martelarenplein.

Studentenwelkom is an activity during 600 years of KU Leuven.