If you’ve ever logged a cache at an old coal mining site, you might be a cacher who spent some time at the Genks Geocache Event Block Party (GCAKWAY) in Belgium.

The occasion wasn’t just about well-crafted events, FTFs and smilies (though there were plenty of those). It gave a glimpse into the lives of those who worked underground for generations, using pickaxes long before we were using smartphones. We explored the old mining site, swapped stories, and, for those lucky enough to chat with the retired miners in attendance, got firsthand tales of what it was like to go underground for a living.

Pro tip: If you get the chance to talk with one of these legends, take it. Caches can wait—living history can’t.

Between logbooks and laughter, one thing stood out as distinctly as the smell of frying potatoes (frites!): the incredible warmth of the geocaching community. Whether you arrived solo or in a convoy of caching comrades, there was always a new friend to be made.

The generosity of the geocaching community was on full display as people shared treats and treasures from their home regions; chocolates, stroopwafels, wine gums, tiny wooden shoes, pins, bracelets, woodies and trading cards. It’s this sharing and thoughtfulness that elevates this hobby beyond a simple game, fostering a true sense of belonging and community.

There was so much more fun to be had than the Block Party itself. Festivities kicked off with a welcome event, where spirits were high, as geocachers greeted old friends and made new ones. The next morning we attended a very special event at the home museum (yes, he has a museum at his home – so cool!) of a retired miner. He was a gracious host and it was fascinating to see the treasures he’d collected over the years. That same day, there was a BBQ and a sunset event, which was moved indoors—but the rain didn’t dampen anyone’s spirits.

Following the main event, in the evening, C-Mine was transformed into a fantastic glitter and glamour party. We had the thrill of seeing one member of the organization team perform in the great band that kept everyone singing and dancing. On the final day, things wrapped up with a CITO on the grounds near the event (and an ice cream truck – yum!) and finally a farewell event to cap off an excellent four days of fun, friends, and caching.

So here’s to Genk, to the miners whose legacy we now tread above, and to our fellow geocachers—the friendliest folks you’ll find. If you missed this one, don’t worry. There’s always another cache, but some moments—like this one—are truly worth logging as “Found It (and loved it).”

Geocaching HQ Lackeys attend dozens of Mega and Giga-Events around the world, shaking hands, sharing stories of adventure, and of course, geocaching! Jenn Parker, a Senior Android Developer at HQ, recently traveled to Genk, Belgium to attend Genks Geocache Event 2025 Block Party (GCAKWAY).