Passade closes its doors after 25 years – an ode to an icon in Mechelen

On 11 August 2000, Passade opened its doors for the first time in Mechelen – at a time when the city did not yet have the vibrant character that it has today. Passade changed that. It quickly became a permanent fixture, not only in Mechelen, but far beyond. A place where people came together, celebrated, enjoyed themselves… and returned time and time again.

Today, 25 years later, Mechelen has changed profoundly. Urban developments such as the tangent and the cycle highway transformed the area. Unfortunately, it is precisely this progress that makes it impossible to continue Passade at this location. The province decided to expropriate, which means that part of the building will be demolished to finally realise the cycle highway.

With a heavy heart, Christine and Richy announce that Passade will close its doors for good on 30 August 2025.

They would like to express their sincere thanks to the entire team – dozens of employees who have invested their energy, passion and talent in the story over all those years. And of course the customers: some came from the very first day, others quickly found their way and kept coming back. Weekly, monthly, or just whenever there was something to celebrate.

A personal word of thanks – on behalf of myself, Erik Wood, and Olivier Wauters.

Both Olivier and I were part of the team in the early years of Passade. We not only gained valuable professional experience, but also developed a deep appreciation for everything that real hospitality entails.

And the bond continued afterwards. As loyal customers, and later also as partners. Because Passade also became a loyal customer of Eventonline – from the very beginning – and we have worked together professionally with great pleasure for many years.

Christine and Richy: you have created a unique place where people felt at home, made memories and celebrated special moments. We would like to express our sincere thanks for everything you have meant to so many over the past 25 years.

We wish you every success and happiness in the next chapter. The doors are closing, but the story of Passade lives on in the memories of many.