In Belgium, the festive spirit comes alive in early December, when celebrations for Saint Nicholas—a beloved figure among children as the traditional bringer of gifts—officially open the Christmas markets in Belgium. Here’s a quick guide to Belgium’s Christmas markets, city by city.
Across much of Europe, Saint Nicholas is known for delivering the first Christmas gifts: not by chance, he’s the inspiration behind Santa Claus as we imagine him. In Belgium, his feast kickstarts the sparkling Christmas markets, filled with lights and festive decorations. Discover Belgium’s most popular Christmas markets:
Christmas Market in Brussels
In Brussels, the Christmas Market takes over the historic city center and expands to feature stalls from various EU countries, each showcasing their traditional crafts and culinary delights.
The Brussels market stretches from Place St-Jean to the Sainte-Cathérine district along a route glowing with lights. Around 220 chalets offer Christmas items, handmade crafts, gourmet specialties, as well as decorations for trees, nativity scenes, and holiday tables.
The Grand Place is the heart of the market, hosting the Nativity scene and Christmas tree. The “Sound & Light” show creates an enchanting atmosphere, projecting light displays and animations on the City Hall in time with everything from classical music to upbeat rock. At the end of the walk, Place Sainte-Cathérine is dedicated to fun: two carousels for kids, a 45-meter ice rink and a 15-meter one for beginners, plus a 48-meter Ferris wheel sparkling with 18,000 lights.
Christmas Market in Liège
Liège, Place du Marché – After Brussels, this is Belgium’s largest Christmas market, with over 240 wooden chalets offering fantastic gift ideas, Walloon crafts, holiday decor, and outstanding traditional delicacies.
The Liège Christmas Village is a true institution, complete with its own Village Council running folkloric events that celebrate local traditions. Spot the Village Counselor in his distinctive costume featuring the city’s symbols. There are plenty of activities for all ages, including skating rinks and a Ferris wheel.
Christmas Market in Mons
Unique in its kind, the Mons Christmas Market sets up an enchanted forest atmosphere on the Grand Place. Alongside the nativity scene and Christmas tree, you’ll find candles, elves, giant mushrooms, and magical lighting that all add to the charm.
Christmas Market in Durbuy
In Durbuy’s old town, the Christmas market comes to life every weekend in December and daily from December 24 to January 4. The city park also hosts a separate market and an ice skating rink. Come experience the festive magic of Durbuy—the world’s smallest city nestled in the Ardennes, where the atmosphere remains enchanting all year round.
