Antwerp city council is pleased with the success of this year’s edition of the winter festival “Winter in Antwerp”. The Christmas market attracted around 1.5 million visitors over the past four weeks. The atmosphere on Conscienceplein was particularly welcoming, with this edition clearly busier than in previous years.
Winter in Antwerp was staged at seven locations over the past month: the Steenplein, the Suikerrui, the historic market square, the Handschoenmarkt, the Hendrik Conscienceplein, the Groenplaats and the Operaplein.
The opening weekend signalled immediate success, attracting 170,000 visitors. The annual end-of-year fireworks display on the River Scheldt attracted around 120,000 people.
This year the event welcomed some 200,000 more visitors than last year.
More success for the Conscienceplein
The Hendrik Conscienceplein was popular both with visitors and market traders this year, in contrast to the previous two years.
This edition saw the square introduce a new gastronomic concept: “Your Divine Xmas” by renowned entrepreneur Sepideh Sedaghatnia. ‘This was a hit with foodies who wanted something more than just mulled wine or a bratwurst,’ says Antwerp Mayor Els van Doesburg.
‘I am very happy that it was a success. We are receiving a lot of positive feedback and congratulations from visitors,’ says a satisfied Sepideh. ‘We have a three-year contract and will be back here next year with just as much enthusiasm.’
‘We noticed that people need authenticity, atmosphere and warmth. Even on Monday and Tuesday, people were dancing on the square.’
Annual treat from the city of Antwerp
Sunday afternoon, in keeping with tradition, the city authorities treated residents to a free snack, drink or visit to one of the winter attractions. Almost 50,000 free tokens were handed out.
The city council also voiced its New Year's wishes on Antwerp’s historic market square followed by a concert of Antwerp traditionals.