From Friday 27 November 2026 to Sunday 3 January 2027, the Christmas market in Brussels returns for the 25th anniversary of Plaisirs d'Hiver. Market chalets, attractions and light shows are spread across the city centre.
A winter celebration across central Brussels
Grand-Place hosts an outdoor sound and light show. The Cathedral of St Michael and St Gudula also hosts an immersive light show. Check each show's programme and ticket details before visiting.
The anniversary edition features 238 market chalets, a Ferris wheel, an ice rink and a programme of activities, some of which require payment.
Rather than occupying a single location, Plaisirs d'Hiver extends across several parts of the city centre. Visitors can explore Grand-Place, Place de la Monnaie, Place Sainte-Catherine, Vismet, Place de la Bourse, Place De Brouckère, the Black Tower, Place Royale, La Madeleine and Place Poelaert.
Access to the squares and markets is free. Visitors can enjoy the atmosphere without purchasing tickets for the attractions.
Plaisirs d'Hiver is open daily from 12 noon to 10 pm, with an earlier closing time of 6 pm on 24 and 31 December and 3 January.
Béarn Pyrénées and the Basque Country take centre stage
For its 25th anniversary, Plaisirs d'Hiver welcomes Béarn Pyrénées and the Basque Country as guests of honour.
A dedicated village at Place de la Bourse introduces these regions as part of the Brussels celebrations.
Behind the festivities: preparing a city-centre event
Before an event of this scale opens, temporary structures need to be assembled and deliveries organised. Access routes, loading arrangements and local coordination are practical considerations whenever installations take place in a busy city centre.
These challenges are particularly relevant in Brussels, where historic streets and public squares form part of the everyday urban environment.
Fixtures & Fittings Services - Benelux explores these practical questions in a separate article Planning an Installation in Central Brussels: Access, Logistics and Local Site Support.
Practical information: 27 November 2026 to 3 January 2027, daily from 12 noon to 10 pm. Closing at 6 pm on 24 and 31 December and 3 January.
Sources and programme: Plaisirs d'Hiver · Practical information · visit.brussels
