For the third year in a row, our MAD Café is run by the Bruyninckx brothers. Those who have been there before know what that means: delicious homemade BRUUR beer and gin, tasty organic lemonades, and  last but not least, legendary parties.

According to Vincent, Simon, and Cédric, from the circus troupe Collectif Malunés, the bar is the heart of a circus festival. "Audiences, performers, young and old meet there. We want to give this central spot some identity."

They do this, among other things, by serving their own brewed beer and homemade gin. "Call it a hobby that got out of hand," says Vincent about BRUUR beer, an IPA with a citrusy touch, which they started brewing on a small scale in 2019. "The reactions were immediately very positive, so we increased our production."

It still remains a locally supported project. "We would like to avoid commercial supermarket chains and stay as close to the cultural sector as possible. Think local cinemas, cultural centers, grandma’s sewing club, small festivals, …" With success: by 2022, the brothers succeeded in selling 80% of their products within the cultural sector.

A bar that breathes circus 

At the MAD Café, circus performers are not only behind but also on top of the bar. The entertainment during the free DJ sets in the bar is also in the hands of the brothers, and they can rely on a colorful group of circus artist friends for that. So don’t be surprised if an acrobat suddenly flies over the bar. Or in the later hours, an overload of confetti, and perhaps a piece of clothing here and there.

Where is the bar?

Thirsty after this story? In the MAD Café, you can taste not only BRUUR beer and gin, but also organic lemonades, juices, hot drinks, wine, cocktails and some snacks. The bartent is in the heart of the festival hub, at Asiadok-Westkaai.