City of Antwerp marks 25 years of district governance with city-wide anniversary programme

The City of Antwerp is marking the 25th anniversary of its district system with a year-long programme of activities highlighting the identity of each district and their connections within the city. Since 2001, the city’s districts have had their own elected administrations. With the addition of Borsbeek as the tenth district in 2025, Antwerp currently consists of ten districts.

Walking and cycling routes

From April 2026, residents and visitors will be able to explore the city and its districts through a series of themed routes. The programme includes ten walking routes of between 5 and 14 kilometres, one in each district, as well as two cycling routes linking all districts. The routes are intended to showcase local character, stories and lesser-known locations, offering opportunities to discover both one’s own district and others across the city.

Local celebrations

In addition to the central programme, each district will organise its own local event. Planned initiatives include a long communal table event in Berendrecht-Zandvliet-Lillo, a large-scale celebration in the Antwerp district, and a light art installation in Deurne. These activities are designed as neighbourhood-based gatherings open to the public.

District system

Antwerp is the only city in Belgium divided into districts. Following decentralisation decisions in 2001, districts were granted specific powers to enable local policymaking tailored to residents’ needs. The ten districts are the district of Antwerp, Berchem, Berendrecht-Zandvliet-Lillo, Borgerhout, Borsbeek, Deurne, Ekeren, Hoboken, Merksem, and Wilrijk.

Each district has its own elected administration responsible for tasks such as the management of streets, squares, parks and green spaces; civil registry services; local markets and festivities; and cultural, youth and sports policy. 

Districts operate within their assigned competences and in alignment with city policy. They receive an annual financial allocation from the city. Further information about the system is available in an explanatory video.

Further information

The anniversary programme will be expanded in the coming weeks. Up-to-date information on activities, walking routes and cycling routes is available at www.25jaardistricten.be.