It’s official! The “Plaisirs d’Hiver ” festivities – which include the Brussels Christmas Market and a host of other events – will return to the capital from November 28, 2025 to January 4, 2026. They will be held in the center of Brussels, and as the event website states, the event promises “even more surprises and unforgettable experiences”. Bruxelles Secrète tells you all you need to know about one of the world’s most popular Christmas markets.
Plaisirs d’Hiver: voted “most beautiful Christmas market in the world
The capital’s Christmas market is a favorite of many Brussels residents. It’s part of the “Plaisirs d’Hiver ” entertainment program, and will be back this winter with cinnamon shortbread and festive music. It will take up residence in the city center from November 28. We’ll be serving up liters of mulled wine, cones of French fries galore and crunchy chocolates in foil!
In 2024, no fewer than 4.2 million visitors flocked to the illuminated stalls of Brussels’ biggest Christmas market. Merchants and shopkeepers were on hand to provide last-minute gifts and other authentic products with a festive flavour. In 2022, the magazines Best Christmas Market and Big 7 Travel even voted it “most beautiful market in Europe and the World”! A real accolade!
What’s in store for 2025-2026?
In addition to the very large Christmas market with over 230 stalls and the usual Christmas tree on the Grand-Place, the famous ice rink will be back. The Plaisirs d’Hiver website warned us: “more surprises and unforgettable experiences”! And with good reason:
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The main events:
– The Christmas Market: 238 chalets to stroll around, taste and find gifts, featuring gourmet and artisanal delights.
– Attractions and activities: Plaisirs d’Hiver offers a variety of attractions and activities, including the Altitude Chalet and workshops.
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This year’s highlights:
– Place Sainte-Catherine (merry-go-round, chalets, etc.)
– Le Vismet (chalets, Ferris wheel…)
– Place de la Monnaie (chalets, entertainment…)
– Place de Brouckère (skating rink, curling rink…)
– Place de la Bourse (chalets, drinks…)
– Tour Noire (children’s village…)
– Rue de la Madeleine (chalets run by a Ukrainian association)
– Place Poelaert (mini Christmas village)
– The Christmas tree on the Grand-Place
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New features announced for 2025 include :
– Les étoffes de la Nativité (the Christmas crib reinvented on the Grand-Place)
– Morphosis (monumental installation on the Grand-Place)
– View Tower Experience (climb to the top of the Town Hall Tower)
We’re already feeling the magic of Christmas!