Poperinge, once famous for its lace, is now famous for its hops. Since the 15th century, the agricultural district surrounding Poperinge has cultivated hops; there are many breweries and pubs, a Hops festival takes place each September, and the National Hops Museum is located in Poperinge proper. Poperinge was one of only two towns unoccupied by the Germans during World War I; British soldiers referred to it as "Pop".
Poperinge is located in Belgium's far eastern corner, on the border with France. It has a population of 19,000.
Haringe, Krombeke (Crombeke), Proven, Reningelst, Roesbrugge-Haringe, and Watou are boroughs within the municipal district of Poperinge.