It’s that time of the year again and the beloved seasonal tradition Winter Wonders is back in town. The popular Plaisirs d’Hiver / Winterpret event takes place in Brussels from 28 November 2025 to 1 January 2026, with certain attractions extending until 4 January. The city will be transformed into a luminous playground of lights, crafts, food and community spirit. Here’s everything you need to know, from what’s new this year to the most interesting activities this festive season in Brussels.
Winter Wonders started on Friday 28 November with the illumination of the Christmas Tree in Grand-Place at 18h. This year, it is designed by Belgian artist Jean-Paul Lespagnard and the lights and music show will take place every evening from 17 to 22h.
As every year, the event is centered around a Christmas market featuring more than 230 chalets, where local artisans, crafters, and gourmet vendors offer gifts, treats and festive specialties. However, Winter Wonders is way more than than – it features so many festive activities and happenings such as a giant Ferris wheel, ice rink, curling, carousels, sound and light shows, as well as various cultural events, turning Brussels into a full winter wonderland.
This year, Winter Wonders weaves connections between craftworkers, associations, and residents, while showcasing the heritage, culture, and know-how of Brussels.
Christmas markets can be found on different locations, from the usual popular spots at Sainte Catherine and the Bourse, all the way to the newcomer spot Place Poelart. There are more than 230 chalets with gifts and food, the traditional ice-rink, the Ferris wheel and merry-go-rounds until 1 January, with Place De Brouckère continuing until Sunday, 4 January 2026. Markets are open daily from noon to 22h, except on 24 & 31 December and 4 January, when closing time is 18h. On those days, there will be no sound and light show at the Grand-Place.
What’s new:
A very interesting novelty this year at Place de la Monnaie: Beyond the lovely chalets with tasty dishes, gift ideas and fun activities for all ages, La Monnaie opera house presents a pop-up exhibition on its workshops, revealing the creative process behind the sets, costumes and props used in its productions.
This is where you can see a monumental upcycled structure, created in collaboration with the Royal Theatre of La Monnaie, featuring nine two-metres Christmas trees made entirely from recycled materials. Each tree represents a creative workshop, showcasing artistic craftsmanship and the value of re-use. Click here if you are interested to discover the craftsmanship at the heart of opera by taking part in the creation of a huge Christmas tree.
La Monnaie has been one of Brussels’ most renowned cultural institutions for more than 300 years
and was also named Best Opera House 2025 at the Oper! Awards.
Nestled at the foot of the Giant Wheel, Place Poelaert joins Winter Wonders for the very first time. This year it hosts a mini-Christmas village filled with festive spirit, inviting visitors to take a gourmet break in a warm and welcoming setting, surrounded by sweet treats, comforting drinks and a stunning view over Brussels. If you care about sustainability and solidarity, check out the toy-collection / charity spot at Place Poelaert, or explore the chalets with the Artisan Quality Label.
In the courtyard of the City Hall, Brussels, look out for the immersive art installation Morphosis — a mesmerising light & sound experience merging heritage and modern creativity.
Pro tips:
View Tower Experience: Climb the 200 spiral steps of the City Hall tower on the Grand Place and watch Brussels unfold beneath your feet. Along the way, pause in an intimate, dreamlike space that transports visitors into the poetic heart of Brussels’ heritage, accompanied by an original musical creation. Plus, a new videomapping has been added halfway up + sound & light in the stairs!
Creators Factory will take over Bourse on 13 & 14 December, from 12 to 20h. For two days, the iconic nave will turn into a warm, glowing hub where local makers shine: clothes, candles, ceramics, illustrations, natural care… crafted with care, creativity and a touch of Brussels charm. Two markets, one place, a world of ideas to wander through.
The knit bar at Bourse is a cosy spot to knit together for a good cause, have a cup of coffee… check it out!
Don’t miss: 9 Winter Wonder locations to enjoy
🎡 Vismet / Marché aux Poissons – Festive chalets and the Lotto Ferris Wheel for stunning city views.
🎭 Place de la Monnaie – Chalets plus a monumental upcycled installation with nine Christmas trees made from recycled materials. Each tree represents an artistic workshop, and a glass container lets visitors peek inside La Monnaie theatre to discover the creative process behind sets, costumes, and stage magic.
🏛️ Place Poelaert – Mini-Christmas village with snacks, drinks, toy collection for kids, and scenic views near the Ferris Wheel.
🌟 Grand‑Place (incl. City Hall courtyard) – Iconic Christmas tree, Fabrics of the Nativity scene, nightly sound-and-light shows, and Morphosis art installation.
🎠 Place Sainte‑Catherine – Chalets and treats with Andréa’s Carousel, a vintage steampunk-inspired ride.
🏛️ Place de la Bourse – Chalets in front of the historic Bourse building, perfect for browsing festive goodies.
⛸️ Place De Brouckère – Ice rink, curling lanes, festive rides including a reindeer carousel. Winter Wonders stays here until 4 Jan 2026 at 18h.
🛍️ Rue de la Madeleine – A quieter, community-style market with local specialties and festive treats.
Behind Sainte-Catherine Church, the Tour Noire area becomes a children’s village. The Candy Cane theme decorates the roofs, the tree and the entrance arches, creating a fairytale atmosphere. Visit Santa’s Chalet, where creative workshops take place and both Saint Nicholas and Santa Claus stop by for unforgettable encounters. Each day, local artists and the Winter Vox choirs (on weekends) offer free performances and activities, making this a hidden gem not to be missed during your visit to Winter Wonders.
Winter Wonders in Brussels is widely regarded as one of Europe’s most magical Christmas markets. Each year brings fresh attractions and new experiences, keeping the celebration feeling vibrant and exciting. Prepare for a festive stroll filled with delights and enjoy a truly wonderful holiday season in our city. Check our Instagram video for inspiration and consult the interactive map which allows you to explore all the sites. Using the filters, you can find specific chalets, discover the different attractions, or find out the best way to get to Winter Wonders.
If you are wondering on the best ways to arrive to your desired locations in the city centre, we can definitely recommend walking or using public transport but be sure to check this page with all transport information, allowing you to plan ahead and choose the most convenient mobility option. You can also get all the latest updates and agenda on the official Winter Wonders website.
