Brussels is getting ready for the 24th edition of Winter Wonders, the Christmas festival and market in the downtown. This year, there are several new features, including a poetic nativity scene and a Christmas market on the Poelaertplein. An overview.
With 4.2 million visitors last year, Winter Wonders is one of the largest Christmas markets in Europe. The City of Brussels estimates that it generates an estimated 260 million euros for the Brussels economy.
This success is largely built upon 238 stalls and six attractions on familiar Brussels squares, but there are also some new features this year.
What is new?
A new Christmas market is planned at the foot of the Ferris wheel on the Poelaertplein near the courts of justice. The market will include a collection point for toys for sick and disadvantaged children.
The courtyard of Brussels town hall will be transformed into Morphosis, an immersive experience of light and sound. People who are prepared to make an effort for a good view can once again climb the 200 steps of Brussels town hall tower to enjoy the panorama.
Christmas tree
Of course, no Christmas celebrations would be complete without the Christmas tree on the Grote Markt.
According to Christmas tree spotter Pierre Demesmaeker, this year’s Christmas tree is still growing in Sint-Katelijne-Waver (Antwerp). The decorations will be auctioned afterwards to raise cash for charity.
Underneath the Christmas tree you will find a nativity scene: a poetic installation by interior designer Victoria-Maria, inspired by the Royal Greenhouses in Laken.
Ferris wheel and carousel
The Vismet or Fish market remains the epicentre of the Christmas market, but the layout has changed slightly to ensure smoother circulation. The Ferris wheel remains there, as well as the carousel on the Sint-Katelijneplein and the ice rink and curling rink on the De Brouckèreplein.
Workshops will be organised on the Muntplein, open to the general public and schools. In the adjacent Muntschouwburg opera building, you can visit the backstage area of the opera.
Winter Wonders runs from 28 November to 1 January, except on the De Brouckèreplein, where it stays open until 4 January.