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European Puppy & Handler Contest
Antwerp 2027

The European Puppy & Handler Contest takes place in Antwerp during the annual Darklands fetish week.

  • Event Dates

    From: Awaiting dates
    To: Awaiting dates

  • Key Higlights

    • Hot Fetish Guys
    • Puppy of the Year
    • Best Puppy Handler
    • Puppy Competitions

European Puppy & Handler Contest Antwerp 2027

The European Puppy & Handler Contest takes place in Antwerp during the annual Darklands fetish week.

  • Are you visiting for Darklands? Hotels sell out early. Try the Hotel Julien, located in a former palace and rated “Superb” by guests with spacious rooms, delicious breakfast options and high-end amenities.

The Event

  • Next Edition: Awaiting dates.
  • National winners of Puppy competitions from across Europe will compete for the title of European Puppy of the year.
  • The event will also award prizes to the best Puppy Handler.
  • Are you visiting Antwerp for Darklands? Stay in the Old Town for the best selection of Hotels. The host venue is 9 minutes by car or 18 minutes by tram.

The Schedule

  • Events are held on the Saturday and Sunday with multiple Rounds.
  • Finale takes place on Sunday.
  • Saturday – 05:50 pm – 06:20 pm
  • Sunday – 01:15 pm – 01:45 pm | 01:55 pm – 02:30 pm | 05:45 pm – 06:00 pm

The Venue

  • The competition takes place in the Darklands Arena in Waagnatie, Antwerp.
  • Waagnatie is a cavernous exhibition centre in Antwerp, offering the ideal location for Darklands.
  • Organisers transform the venue each year into a cruisy post-industrial party zone with bars, parties and a unique Fetish atmosphere.

Recommended Hotels in Antwerp

Here are the hotels we recommend that have good reviews. All are close to central Antwerp and a short ride to the puppy events.

Hotel Rubens,   Hilton Antwerp,   Hotel Julien,    T Sandt,

Gay Map of Antwerp

Antwerp is small and compact having a beautifully preserved old town in the centre. Having said that bars and clubs (more than 30) are spread out around the city, so its best to find a hotel close to the centre and journey out to your preferred destination. The main club, Red & Blue is located in the harbour. Famous gay monthly parties Studio 54 and Café de Love attract guys from all over Europe so book your accommodation in advance.

Address: Oude Beurs 29, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium

  • Elegant hotel in Antwerp’s historic center.
  • Offers modern rooms with cathedral or garden views.
  • Features a breakfast patio beneath a 16th-century tower.
  • Provides free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and private parking.
  • Steps from Grote Markt, museums, and shopping streets.
  • Ideal for leisure and business travelers seeking comfort.
  • Website

Address: Groenplaats 32, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium

  • Central hotel overlooking Groenplaats square.
  • Blends historic architecture with contemporary interiors.
  • Rooms offer generous space with classic styling.
  • Restaurant and bar provide all-day dining.
  • Gym supports quick workouts between outings.
  • Strong base for exploring Antwerp on foot.
  • Website

Address: Korte Nieuwstraat 24, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium

  • Boutique hotel in Antwerp’s historic center.
  • Offers minimalist rooms with curated art and neutral tones.
  • Features a rooftop terrace with cathedral views.
  • Spa includes sauna, hammam, and treatment room.
  • Lounge bar serves cocktails and Belgian beers.
  • Located near the Cathedral and fashion district.
  • Website

Address: Zand 17, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium

  • Charming boutique hotel near Antwerp’s historic center.
  • Set in a renovated 16th-century townhouse.
  • Rooms mix classic details with modern comfort.
  • Breakfast served in an airy conservatory.
  • Library lounge opens onto a quiet Italian courtyard.
  • Easy walk to museums, riverfront, and shopping streets.
  • Website

Address: Melkmarkt 18, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium

  • Gay café-bar in Antwerp’s historic center.
  • Features front and rear terraces with outdoor seating.
  • Offers a wide selection of beers, wines, and cocktails.
  • Hosts regular drag shows and themed events.
  • Popular with locals and visitors for its inclusive atmosphere.
  • Open: Mon–Thu: 11am–2am, Fri–Sat: 11am–3am, Sun: 11am–2am
  • Facebook

Address: Draakplaats 1, 2018 Antwerp, Belgium

  • Gay café-bar in Antwerp’s Zurenborg district.
  • Known for its cozy interior and welcoming atmosphere.
  • Offers a wide selection of Belgian beers and cocktails.
  • Features a spacious terrace popular for socializing.
  • Hosts occasional themed events and live performances.
  • Open: Tue–Thu: 4pm–1am, Fri–Sat: 4pm–3am, Sun: 12pm–1am
  • Website

Address: Falconrui 59, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium

  • Gay bar set inside Antwerp’s historic Hessenhuis building.
  • Spreads across two floors with DJs and dance space.
  • Serves Belgian beers, cocktails, and simple bar snacks.
  • Known for themed nights, drag shows, and Eurovision parties.
  • Draws a mixed crowd for late-night energy.
  • Open: Tue-Wed: 7pm-1am, Thu: 7pm-2am,
  • Fri-Sat: 7pm-4am, Sun: 7pm-2am
  • Website

Address: Geulincxstraat 28, 2060 Antwerp, Belgium

  • Gay bar and cruise club in Antwerp’s northern district.
  • Hosts themed dance nights, drag shows, and fetish events.
  • Features a dance floor, video lounge, and darkroom.
  • Offers lockers, smoking area, and happy hour specials.
  • Popular for its late-night parties and inclusive atmosphere.
  • Open: Fri-Sat: 11pm–8am, Sun: 9pm–6am
  • Website

Address: Nieuwstad 4, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium

  • Gay bar located in Antwerp’s Theaterplein district.
  • Features a spacious terrace and cozy indoor seating.
  • Hosts themed events like Eurovision watch parties.
  • Offers a relaxed atmosphere with friendly staff.
  • Popular spot for socializing in the city center.
  • Open: Wed–Thu: 2pm–12am, Fri: 2pm–2am,
  • Sat: 10am–2am, Sun: 10am–12am
  • Facebook

Address: Nieuwstad 6, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium

  • Gay bar and cocktail lounge in Antwerp’s Theaterplein district.
  • Serves craft cocktails, wines, and Spanish-style sharing plates.
  • Features a stylish interior and outdoor terrace.
  • Hosts DJs every second Friday and occasional themed nights.
  • Attracts a diverse crowd, especially during weekend markets.
  • Open: Mon, Thu–Fri: 4pm–12am, Sat–Sun: 11am–12am
  • Instagram

Address: Tabakvest 73, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium

  • Gay bar in Antwerp’s Theaterbuurt district.
  • Known for its cozy interior and welcoming atmosphere.
  • Offers a variety of drinks and friendly service.
  • Hosts themed events and social gatherings.
  • Popular with locals and visitors alike.
  • Open: Wed–Thu: 3pm–12am, Fri: 3pm–3am,
  • Sat: 10am–3am, Sun: 10am–12am
  • Instagram

Address: Hendrik Conscienceplein 7, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium

  • Gay bar in Antwerp’s historic center.
  • Offers wines, cocktails, and food-sharing plates.
  • Stylish interior with outdoor seating on a quaint square.
  • Hosts DJ nights and attracts a diverse crowd.
  • Cozy spot for drinks and conversation.
  • Open: Wed–Thu: 3pm–1am, Fri–Sat: 12pm–2am, Sun: 12pm–1am
  • Facebook

Address: Grote Markt 21, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium

  • Gay bar and karaoke lounge in Antwerp’s Grote Markt.
  • Offers nightly karaoke followed by DJ-led dancing.
  • Hosts drag shows, bingo nights, and themed events.
  • Known for its lively atmosphere and late-night hours.
  • Popular spot for locals and visitors seeking entertainment.
  • Open: Mon–Thu: 9pm–3am, Fri–Sun: 8pm–5am
  • Website

Address: Van Schoonbekeplein 19, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium

  • Natural wine and beer bar in Antwerp’s Eilandje district.
  • Features cozy vintage decor and a leafy terrace.
  • Offers rotating drinks menu with local bites.
  • Hosts occasional DJ sets and themed events.
  • Attracts a diverse, mixed crowd.
  • Open: Mon, Wed–Fri: 4pm–12am, Sat–Sun: 3pm–12am, Tue: Closed
  • Website

Address: Van Schoonbekeplein 3, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium

  • Gay bar located in Antwerp’s Het Eilandje district.
  • Features cozy, vintage-inspired decor and a relaxed vibe.
  • Offers a selection of beers, wines, and cocktails.
  • Hosts occasional themed events and social gatherings.
  • Popular for its welcoming atmosphere and outdoor seating.
  • Open: Wed–Thu: 2pm–10pm, Fri–Sat: 2pm–12am, Sun: 2pm–8pm
  • Instagram

Address: Ellermanstraat 58, 2060 Antwerp, Belgium

  • Gay bar located in Antwerp’s Park Spoor Noord district.
  • Features Moulin Rouge-inspired decor and a festive vibe.
  • Offers Belgian beers, cocktails, and local wines.
  • Hosts drag shows and themed events.
  • Popular for its welcoming atmosphere and terrace seating.
  • Open: Tue–Fri: 12pm–8pm, Sat–Sun: 2pm–10pm
  • Facebook

Address: Oudevaartplaats 8, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium

  • Gay bar and cabaret lounge in Antwerp’s Theaterplein district.
  • Features Louis XIV-inspired decor and vintage charm.
  • Hosts drag shows, karaoke, and themed events.
  • Offers cocktails, wines, and light bites.
  • Popular for its inclusive atmosphere and late-night entertainment.
  • Open: Mon, Thu–Fri: 12pm–1am, Sat: 8am–1am, Sun: 7am–1am
  • Website

Address: Grote Pieter Potstraat 21, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium

  • Lesbian-owned bar and safe space in Antwerp’s historic center.
  • Offers craft cocktails, beers, and non-alcoholic options.
  • Features chic vintage decor and a sunny terrace.
  • Hosts drag nights, DJ sets, and community events.
  • Known for its inclusive vibe and welcoming staff.
  • Open: Thu 5pm–12am Fri 6pm–2am Sat 5pm–2am, Sun 6pm–12am
  • Instagram

Address: Lange Schipperskapelstraat 11-13, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium

  • Gay nightclub in Antwerp’s Red Light District.
  • Hosts themed parties, drag shows, and international DJs.
  • Features an industrial-style dance floor with LED walls.
  • Known for men-only nights and mixed-crowd events.
  • Popular for its vibrant atmosphere and late-night dancing.
  • Open: Sat: 11pm–7am
  • Website

Address: Verversrui 15, 2000 Antwerp, Belgium

  • Gay nightclub in Antwerp’s Schipperskwartier district.
  • Located in a 16th-century former church with industrial decor.
  • Hosts queer-focused events like Oh Honey and Get Wet.
  • Features international DJs, drag shows, and themed parties.
  • Known for its inclusive atmosphere and late-night dancing.
  • Open: Fri–Sat: 11pm–late
  • Website

Address: Van Aerdtstraat 22, 2060 Antwerp, Belgium

  • Gay cruise and fetish club in Antwerp’s Red Light District.
  • Spans six floors with bars, play zones, and darkrooms.
  • Hosts themed nights like Leather, Rubber, and Naked Sundays.
  • Membership required; weekend passes available at the door.
  • Popular for its inclusive atmosphere and late-night events.
  • Open: Fri: 10:30pm–4am, Sat: 8pm–10:30pm
  • Website

Top Gay Neighbourhoods in Antwerp

Antwerp, Belgium, has a thriving LGBTQ+ community and is known for being a welcoming & hosts several LGBTQ+ events and festivals throughout the year. The most prominent of these is Antwerp Pride, which typically takes place in August. Antwerp Pride includes a colorful and lively parade, parties, cultural events, and a sense of celebration and inclusivity that brings together locals and visitors alike.

Historic Center | In the hart of city centre

Historic Center Antwerp
Photo: Historic Center is home to some of Antwerp's most popular gay bars
  • Antwerp's historic center has a diverse range of bars and clubs, many of which are gay or gay friendly.
  • This area is bustling with activity, and you'll likely find a mix of people from various backgrounds.
  • Antwerp's fashion district is also located in this area, making it perfect for shopping enthusiasts.
  • It's a great area for tourists, with numerous shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions.
  • Discover the best things to see and do in Barcelona

Sint-Jacob

Red Light District Antwerp

Antwerp's Red Light District is home to several gay bars and clubs. It can be a lively area for nightlife, offering a mix of entertainment options.

Sint Andries

Known for its historic charm & is home to several gay bars & cafes. It offers a more relaxed and cozy atmosphere compared to some of the larger clubbing areas.

Het Eilandje

Eilandje Antwerp

This trendy district is home to many bars & clubs, including gay venues. You can find a mix of nightlife options, from stylish cocktail bars to dance clubs.

Theaterbuurt

Theaterbuurt Antwerp
This neighborhood is situated around Antwerp's main theater district & is known for its diversity & open-minded atmosphere. It's a great place to find gay cafes & bars.

Video – Darklands Antwerp

Official video for the Darklands Fetish Festival.

Hotel Julien

Recommended Hotels in Antwerp By Booking

Book with confidence. Get the best Prices from our partner Booking.com
We have chosen hotels in Antwerp that keep you close to all the shops,restaurants & bars

Hotel Julien, 4 Star
Our Preference

Hotel Julien



Booking.com

  • 4 Star, Modern Style in Historic Buildings
  • Close to the gay district
  • Equipped with bath or rain shower
  • Nestled in historic buildings with modern rooms, spa in 16th-century cellars, perfect for relaxation and exploration.

Rubens-Grote Markt
4 Star, Very Central

Hotel Rubens-Grote Markt



Booking.com

  • 4 Star, Luxurious Suite with Private Terrace
  • Close to the gay district
  • Climate control, flat-screen TV
  • Centrally located, offering spacious rooms with climate control, and a deluxe breakfast buffet for a perfect start.

Hotel ‘T Sandt, 4 Star
Shopping & Partying

Hotel 'T Sandt



Booking.com

  • 4 Star, Charming Italian Courtyard and Terrace
  • Close to the gay district
  • Spacious, homely atmosphere
  • Boutique hotel with a luxurious ambiance, offering a free breakfast and stunning terrace views over the cathedral.

Hotel Matelote, 3 Star
Boutique & Central

Hotel Matelote



Booking.com

  • 3 Star, Offering 16th Century Architecture
  • Close to the gay district
  • Free wired internet, flat-screen TV
  • Elegant boutique hotel combining luxurious design with historical architecture, moments away from Grand Place.

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