What to do in Brussels this Christmas and New Year?

What to do in Brussels this Christmas

What to do if you’re in Brussels, Belgium this Christmas. Here’s a guide to the must-see Christmas events if you’re planning a trip to this culture-filled City.

Christmas is an active time in Brussels, regardless of whether you’re travelling by yourself or as a family, there is plenty to do and see. 

Light and sound show in Grand Place 

The must-see thing in Brussels is the Christmas lights. The most spectacular setting is the Grand Place – the city’s central square, considered by many to be one of the most beautiful Christmas light displays in the world.

We know Brussels is the unofficial capital of Europe, so the city needs to make a statement around news years and the city doesn’t disappoint.

The sound and light show illuminates the entire square and every year presents a different theme as part of the great Winter Wonders festival, which takes place in the city during the winter. 

It starts in November and runs until January. 

The show usually repeats throughout the night, every 30mins. Make sure you catch it and grab plenty of pictures.

Visit Bruges

Around an hour outside of Brussels in the town of Bruges, another beauty spot especially at Christmas. 

Martin McDonagh’s In Bruges was set in the famous city and the film highlighted many of the city’s beautiful streets, canals and bridges. 

The medieval architecture in Bruges is mostly intact, making it one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe.

Architecture aside, Bruges is a great place to visit during the festive season if you have children, with boar trips and great restaurants available. 

Make sure you visit Market Square or Grote Markt, its market has been active since 958 and has been declared a World Heritage Site. 

Visit ” Winter Wonders ” festival

Brussel’s Plaisirs d’Hiver – the city’s Christmas festivities is an event with plenty of activities, including fairs, open-air concerts, ice skating and much more. 

The events and attractions of this Christmas festival in Brussels take place every day from 12 pm to 10 pm (except Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve, when activities end at 6 pm). 

Most of the festival’s activities are free of charge and you can pick up a map and the official festival programme so you don’t miss out on anything  – and know which ones are free. 

Skate on an ice rink

Ice skating in Brussels is another great family activity and it’ll get you in the Christmas spirit. There will also be Christmas carols playing in the background to give you Christmas cheer. 

The rink is located in Place de la Monnaie – you’ll also find the Théâtre Royal de la Monnaie and the headquarters of the Belgian National Opera in the famous square. 

Visit a Christmas market in Brussels

Christmas markets are a staple of Christmas fun and if you’re visiting Brussels, a Christmas market is a must. 

Christmas markets in Europe have their own personality and are a magical experience. In Brussels, you have several market options to stroll around, get unique gifts and enjoy the local food and drinks. 

Marché aux Poissons and Place Saint Catherine markets

The Marché aux Poissons and Place Saint Catherine markets are full of variety and plenty of Christmas stalls. You’ll find handicrafts, toys, jewellery and other goodies, there are also plenty of food and drink options. 

You’ll find local Belgian cuisines as well as international alternatives. 

Around the city, you’ll find other Christmas markets including one at the Grand Place and one located at the Brussels Stock Exchange.

You’ll find plenty of stalls around Brussels  – the city wants you to stroll through its streets and experience the culture on offer.