Brussels Christmas Market
by WenWinter Wonderland Magic in Brussels
It's beginning to look a lot like…Christmas! When we visited the Brussels Christmas market, it was a proper winter wonderland, complete with snow falling! And yep, you guessed it, that meant it was very cold. But here's the thing: that biting chill did absolutely nothing to dampen people's spirits or their passion for the market. In fact, it seemed to add to the cozy, festive atmosphere, making those warm cups of mulled wine even more inviting!
Grand-Place: The Heart of the Sparkle
The Brussels Christmas market expands from the Grand Place until Place St. Catherine. The two markets were within walking distance of each other. It includes a Ferris wheel, a huge Christmas tree, an ice-skating rink and the Christmas market with over 200 stands. You absolutely have to start at the Grand-Place. It's stunning on any given day, but come Christmas, it's next-level. Right there in the middle, you'll find the majestic Christmas tree, often a gift from a different region each year, decked out in all its glory. It's the perfect spot for those iconic festive photos.
Indulge Your Senses: Food, Drinks, and Gifts Galore
Now, let's talk about the important stuff: the food and drinks! You absolutely cannot visit a Belgian Christmas market without indulging in a few (or a lot) of treats. Warm up with a mug of vin chaud (mulled wine) – there are countless variations to try. Craving something sweet? Belgian waffles, of course, are a must, often served with a generous dollop of whipped cream or warm chocolate sauce. For something savory, try a traditional mitraillette (a truly Belgian sandwich loaded with fries and meat – trust me, it’s a thing of beauty), or some hearty tartiflette.
While mulled wine and traditional Christmas food could be expected almost everywhere, it is the artisan stalls that make all the difference. The Christmas Market offer a wide range of amazing food selections such as sausage, frites, Belgian waffle, artisan cheese, truffles, fresh oysters, snails, cheese fondue, pastries, etc.
Beyond the Grand-Place: A Treasure Hunt of Treats
From the Grand-Place, let your nose and curiosity guide you. The market winds its way through several squares, each with its own charm. Head towards Place Sainte-Catherine, which is often a major hub of activity. Here, you'll find a fantastic ice-skating rink. Nearby, the majestic Ferris wheel offers incredible panoramic views of the illuminated city.
