Marktrock Leuven, the beloved festival known for its vibrant atmosphere and iconic performances, is set to make its triumphant return on August 23, 2025, celebrating the life of its late founder, Jokke Kerkhofs. The announcement was made by his daughter, Kat Kerkhofs, who expressed pride and excitement over the revival of this legendary event.
This one-time festival will take place at the Oude Markt, Leuven’s cultural heart, where it originally found life back in 1982. Jokke Kerkhofs initiated this annual gathering, which grew to attract over 350,000 visitors at its peak. The festival, once the centerpiece of Leuven's cultural scene, featured major acts including Blur, James Brown, Iggy Pop, and Radiohead.
Exactly 20 years ago, on December 24, 2004, Jokke Kerkhofs passed away due to a heart artery rupture, leaving behind many cherished memories and two daughters, Kat and Lyn. According to Kat Kerkhofs, this revival serves as both an ode to her father and the spirit of Leuven. "Hou alvast 23 augustus 2025 vrij in jullie agenda," she declared emphatically, calling on everyone to participate. Kat added, "Het is een ode aan onze papa, aan Leuven en aan het leven."
Alongside her sister Lyn, who will also help coordinate the event, Kat aims to bring forth the same joy and energy the festival once infused across the city. “I grew up behind the scenes of this festival. It feels like I get to know my dad again and, at the same time, write a new chapter,” Kat recounted with palpable emotion. Their desire to rekindle these beautiful memories and make them accessible to both old followers and new generations is ambitious and heartfelt.
Bert Cornillie, the city’s Schepen of Events, has shown immense support for the revival. He stated, "We zijn tevreden dat een vooraanstaand koppel in eigen stad (Kat Kerkhofs en voetballer Dries Mertens, red.) zoiets eenmaligs wil organiseren." This reflects the community’s pride and acknowledgment of the Kerkhofs family’s contribution to Leuven's identity.
On the festival day, activities will expand beyond the Oude Markt to include performances at the Vismarkt and the Grote Markt, with various side activities scattered throughout the city. While the specific line-up of artists is yet to be revealed, the anticipation builds with Kat and Lyn promising it will be a memorable event featuring significant names from the music industry.
The return of Marktrock is not just about music but also about community and togetherness. The festival aims to rekindle the spirit of togetherness and celebration, the very essence Jokke Kerkhofs instilled when he first conceived the idea for this gathering. For many, it signifies hope, nostalgia, and the joyous moments spent with family and friends.
This revival promises to resonate deeply within the hearts of those who share fond memories of Marktrock, transforming the Oude Markt back to its lively roots. The Kerkhofs sisters will channel their memories and experiences, creating new pages for the festival's history.
Marktrock was last held in 2015, after taking root on the Leuven map for more than three decades. The original organizers concluded it after 2008, but the passion laid down by Jokke Kerkhofs has continued to inspire many within the community, urging the younger generation to revive what had been lost and provide the opportunity for new experiences.
Kat’s statement reflects their drive and emotional attachment to the project, reiteratively marking it as more than just music; it’s a personal tribute wrapped within cultural heritage. "Mijn zus heeft alle schouders die ze had onder het project gezet," Lyn remarked, acknowledging Kat’s unwavering commitment.
The return of Marktrock Lefven presents not merely the cultural significance of music but recollects every dance, every laugh, and every moment shared by the thousands who once danced at this festival. It is about reconnecting, honoring the past, and moving forward, together, as one unified Leuven.
Come August 2025, as the sound of music fills the air, we will not only celebrate the festival but also the vibrant legacy of Jokke Kerkhofs—a cornerstone of Leuven’s identity. This unique occasion is poised to not just pay homage but to usher the festival to untold future adventures, celebrating the memory of where it all began.
