• 2: Discover Flanders
  • 2.1: Introduction
  • 2.4: Brussels
  • 2.5: Flanders
    • 2.5.1: Antwerp
    • 2.5.2: Bruges
    • 2.5.3: Ghent
    • 2.5.4: Leuven
    • 2.5.5: Mechelen
    • 2.5.6: Other Flemish Towns
  • 2.6: Suggested Itineraries
  • 2.7: History of Belgium
  • 2.8: Did you know?
  • 2.9: Facts & Figures
• 3: What to do?
  • 3.1: Special Interests
    • 3.1.1: Art & Architecture
    • 3.1.2: Beer Lovers
    • 3.1.3: Chocolate Lovers
    • 3.1.4: Belfries & Beguinages
    • 3.1.5: Family Fun
    • 3.1.6: Gay Travel
    • 3.1.7: Jewish Heritage
    • 3.1.8: Castles & Gardens
    • 3.1.9: WWI & WWII
    • 3.1.10: Green Belgium
  • 3.2: Brussels Highlights
  • 3.3: Art & Culture
  • 3.4: Gourmet Corner
  • 3.5: Festivals
  • 3.6: Nightlife & Entertainment
  • 3.7: Recreation & Sports
  • 3.8: River Cruising
  • 3.9: Shopping
  • 3.10: UNESCO
  • 3.11: Young & Hip
• 4: Where to stay?
• 5: Practical Info
  • 5.2: Before You Go
  • 5.4: Transportation
  • 5.5: Tour Operators
  • 5.6: FAQ
• 37: Sitemap

Christmas Markets

December all month

As the year’s end draws near, the Christmas markets blossom in many cities and towns. The festivities really begin with St. Nicholas on December 6th. Shops display holiday treats such as marzipan, flat hard cakes known as ‘klaasjes’ and ‘speculoos’, a hard gingerbread molded in the form of St. Nicholas.

In all major cities, shopping will be possible on the four Sundays preceding the holiday. The local Tourist Offices can provide visitors with details on the numerous nativity scenes on display, Christmas markets, concerts and other seasonal events.
 

BRUSSELS will hold its annual European Christmas market on the Place St. Catherine.

An array of products will be available in a warm and friendly atmosphere. This market with its cheerful lights, delicious aromas and a vast number of stalls promises a true holiday atmosphere. In addition to the Christmas Market the ice skating rink offers fun for all. This year for the first time a separate small skating rink invites toddlers to enjoy this wonderful winter sport too. And the holiday atmosphere would not be complete without a visit to the Grand’Place decorated in festive lights for the occasion. For more information: www.plaisirsdhiver.be

Many towns and villages throughout the country hold Christmas markets. Most will be aglow with colorful illuminations around their main streets and shopping centers. Contact the local tourist offices for dates and activities.