Christmas is just around the corner, and Belgium is one of the best places to get into the holiday spirit. The country's Christmas markets are famous for their magical atmosphere, delicious food, and unique gifts. If you're planning to visit Belgium during the holiday season, here are six ways to enjoy the country's Christmas markets:
Belgium's Christmas markets are a treat for the senses. The smell of waffles, chocolate, and mulled wine fills the air, while the sound of laughter and carolers creates a festive atmosphere. The markets are beautifully decorated with twinkling lights, garlands, and Christmas trees, making them a photographer's paradise. To fully immerse yourself in the experience, take your time exploring the different stalls, sampling local delicacies, and browsing the unique gifts on offer.
From mid-November to early January, Belgium's cities and towns transform into winter wonderlands. The largest and most famous Christmas market is the Winter Wonders market in Brussels, which attracts over 2.5 million visitors each year. Other notable markets can be found in Bruges, Ghent, Antwerp, and Leuven. Each market has its own unique character, so be sure to visit as many as you can to experience the different atmosphere and offerings.
1. Try Local Delicacies
Belgium's Christmas markets are a foodie's heaven. You can sample local delicacies such as waffles, chocolate, and speculoos (spiced cookies). Be sure to try some of the traditional holiday treats like kerststol (a fruit-filled pastry) and pepernootjes (small spiced cookies). Don't forget to wash it down with a cup of glühwein (mulled wine) or hot chocolate.
Must-Try Foods:
- Waffles with whipped cream and chocolate
- Speculoos (spiced cookies)
- Kerststol (fruit-filled pastry)
- Pepernootjes (small spiced cookies)
- Glühwein (mulled wine)
- Hot chocolate with whipped cream
2. Shop for Unique Gifts
Belgium's Christmas markets are a great place to find unique gifts for your loved ones. You can find everything from handmade crafts to local specialties like Belgian chocolate and beer. Be sure to check out the stalls selling traditional Belgian clothing and accessories, such as scarves, hats, and gloves.
Unique Gift Ideas:
- Handmade crafts like pottery, glasswork, and textiles
- Local specialties like Belgian chocolate and beer
- Traditional Belgian clothing and accessories
- Handmade jewelry and decorations
- Artisanal soaps and candles
3. Explore the Markets at Night
Belgium's Christmas markets are even more magical at night. The twinkling lights and festive decorations create a romantic atmosphere, making it a great time to visit with your loved ones. Be sure to take a stroll around the market, sample some of the local delicacies, and enjoy the live music and entertainment.
Top Tips for Visiting at Night:
- Arrive early to avoid the crowds
- Bring a camera to capture the magical atmosphere
- Wear warm clothing and comfortable shoes
- Take a stroll around the market to explore the different stalls
- Enjoy the live music and entertainment
4. Attend a Christmas Market Event
Many of Belgium's Christmas markets host special events and activities during the holiday season. From ice skating rinks to Santa's grottos, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Be sure to check out the market's program to see what's on offer during your visit.
Top Events to Attend:
- Ice skating rinks
- Santa's grottos
- Live music and entertainment
- Cooking demonstrations
- Christmas tree lighting ceremonies
5. Take a Day Trip to a Nearby Market
Belgium is a small country, making it easy to take a day trip to a nearby Christmas market. Consider visiting the markets in Bruges, Ghent, or Antwerp, which are all within a few hours of Brussels. Each market has its own unique character, so be sure to explore as many as you can.
Top Day Trip Destinations:
- Bruges Christmas Market
- Ghent Christmas Market
- Antwerp Christmas Market
- Leuven Christmas Market
- Hasselt Christmas Market
6. Enjoy the Ice Skating Rinks
Many of Belgium's Christmas markets feature ice skating rinks, which are a fun activity for all the family. Be sure to check out the market's program to see if there's an ice skating rink available during your visit.
Top Ice Skating Rinks:
- Brussels Winter Wonders ice skating rink
- Bruges Christmas Market ice skating rink
- Ghent Christmas Market ice skating rink
- Antwerp Christmas Market ice skating rink
- Leuven Christmas Market ice skating rink
Belgium Christmas Markets Image Gallery
If you're planning to visit Belgium during the holiday season, be sure to check out the country's famous Christmas markets. With their magical atmosphere, delicious food, and unique gifts, they're a must-visit destination for anyone looking to get into the holiday spirit. Whether you're interested in trying local delicacies, shopping for gifts, or simply enjoying the festive atmosphere, Belgium's Christmas markets have something for everyone.