Marriage Boom in Flanders and Brussels: Record Numbers Tie the Knot

The number of marriages in Flanders and Brussels has hit a new peak, with 32,222 couples exchanging vows in 2025. This figure represents a 2% increase from the previous year and marks the highest total in over a quarter-century, according to VRT NWS research.

Sociologist Dimitri Mortelmans points to several contributing factors. "We don't have to look far for the first reason," he stated, referring to the steady growth of the population, including the adult demographic eligible for marriage. This natural population increase logically contributes to a rise in marriage numbers.

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We don't have to look far for the first reason. Our population is growing more and more. Even if you look at the 18-plussers, our adult population eligible to marry, we see this trend. Logically, population growth has an almost natural effect on the rise in marriages.

However, population growth alone doesn't fully explain the surge. Mortelmans also cited the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. "During corona, we saw a huge dip in the number of marriages. That was very logical because all the reception halls were closed," he explained. "Getting married wasn't that easy when you had to stay 2 meters apart." This pent-up demand has led to a significant catch-up effect in recent years.

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During corona, we saw a huge dip in the number of marriages. That was very logical because all the reception halls were closed. Getting married wasn't that easy when you had to stay 2 meters apart. This dip has naturally been caught up since corona, and that's why you see a part of it in recent years.

Relationship therapist and sexologist Vanessa Muyldermans echoed this sentiment, noting that many couples postponed their weddings during the pandemic. "In the corona period, many people had to postpone their wedding. Some people directly because of corona, but others also because everyone was postponing and everything came together," she said.

Beyond these factors, global uncertainty is also influencing people's decisions. Marriage is increasingly seen as a source of stability and official recognition for relationships, offering more legal protection than simply living together. This desire for security and a formal commitment is driving more couples to tie the knot.

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In the corona period, many people had to postpone their wedding. Some people directly because of corona, but others also because everyone was postponing and everything came together.