Brussels Christmas Market 2024-2025

Winter Wonders Christmas Market transforms the center of Brussels into a fairytale town. From late November through early January, over 2 million people visit one of the most beautiful winter markets, held on the majestic Grand Place or Grote Markt in Brussels. This UNESCO heritage site dates back to the 17th century, with baroque and neo-gothic facades accentuated by the amazing holiday illumination.

Winter Wonders Attractions

Winter Wonders, also known as Plaisirs d'Hiver in French, is not just a place for Christmas shopping and indulging in favorite market foods. It's an immersive, awe-inspiring experience that is among the most popular winter festivals in Europe. Brussels Christmas Market features over 200 stalls, an impressive Christmas tree with a huge nativity scene, a Ferris wheel, and an ice rink. Kids would certainly appreciate old-fashioned carousels and various entertainment. The event's Christmas tree is the highlight of the festivities and makes a beautiful backdrop for holiday family snapshots.

If you're up for a challenge, you can also try out curling near the ice skating rink at Place De Brouckère, which is open from noon until 10 pm. Numerous rides are also available, including classic merry-go-rounds with cartoon characters, Santa's Reindeer Ride, and an exhilarating virtual reality experience.

Light Show

One of the Winter Wonders' highlights is the nightly sound and light show when the buildings on Grand Place are turned into works of art. The 360° audio-visual experience will surely take your breath away! The show starts at 5 pm and runs every hour during weekdays and every half-hour during weekends until 10 pm. The entire show is approximately 6 to 8 minutes long. The display isn't on Christmas Eve, December 24th, and New Year's Eve, December 31st. In addition, every year, Brussels presents new illuminated art installations, laser projections, and various innovations that complement the traditional Christmas themes.

Schedule & Tickets

Winter Wonders attractions will be open from November 29th until December 31st, while the rest of the festivities will continue up until January 7th. The market is open from noon to 10 pm daily. On December 24th, December 31st, and the closing day, January 5th, the market closes earlier at 6 pm. Admission to Winter Wonders is free, but you need to purchase tickets or passes for certain attractions. Vendors' goods are also subject to a fee.

Grand Place Location & Other Venues

The center of all the festivities is certainly Grand Place or Grote Markt. The most significant attractions are located there, including the light show and the Christmas tree. The merriment also spreads through the nearby streets, including Place De Brouckère, where you'll find an ice skating rink, Vismet with the Ferris wheel, Mont des Arts, and Place Sainte-Catherine with thrilling rides.