By Noura Khan
Exclusive to The Times Kuwait
Visiting Brussels during the Christmas season this year was like stepping into a storybook. The city was aglow with festive lights.
Brussels transforms into a magical winter wonderland during the Christmas season, combining old-world charm with vibrant holiday festivities. From twinkling lights adorning its medieval streets to heartwarming culinary experiences, the city offers an unforgettable seasonal escape.
At the heart of the city, the Winter Wonders market spreads its festive spirit across the Grand Place, Bourse, and beyond. Over 200 wooden chalets offer artisanal gifts, handmade decorations, and seasonal treats like speculoos cookies, and waffles. The market’s focal point is the majestic Christmas tree in the Grand Place, paired with a dazzling light and sound show that bathes the square in mesmerizing colors every evening.
I found everything from hand-knitted scarves to intricate ornaments.
I couldn’t resist picking up a few gifts—Belgian lace decorations and artisanal chocolates were top of my list.
The moment I stepped into the Grand Place, I was utterly mesmerized. The towering Christmas tree stood proudly in the center, adorned with twinkling lights and ornaments.
Every hour, the square came alive with a breathtaking sound-and-light show that painted the historic façades in vibrant colors, accompanied by holiday music that tugged at the heartstrings.
The Grand Place, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, becomes even more enchanting in December. The gothic façades and opulent guildhalls are illuminated, creating a surreal backdrop for the Christmas tree and nativity scene. The nightly light shows bring a unique vibrancy to the historic square, making it a must-see during your visit.
Food was a highlight here in Brussel, I indulged in frites, waffles dripping with melted chocolate.
While the Grand Place and Christmas market were the highlights, I also took time to explore quieter corners of Brussels. The Sablon district, with its boutique shops and charming cafés, was the perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon. I stumbled upon a small chocolatier where the owner shared stories about traditional Belgian praline-making—an experience as heartwarming as the treats themselves.
Brussels is a shopping haven during the holidays. Stroll through the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert, one of the oldest shopping arcades in Europe, for luxury gifts and high-end fashion. For unique finds, explore the vintage shops in the Sablon district or pick up Belgian lace ornaments as souvenirs.
This trip wasn’t just about sightseeing—it was about feeling the warmth of the season in every interaction, meal, and moment. Whether it was a vendor at the market sharing the story behind their crafts or a local recommending their favorite holiday traditions, Brussels felt welcoming and magical.
As My journey is coming to an end, I carried with me not just souvenirs but a deep appreciation for the city’s ability to bring people together in celebration. Brussels during Christmas isn’t just a destination; it’s an experience that lingers long after the season ends.
The Christmas festivities in Brussels typically run from late November to early January. While the city is bustling during this time, it never feels overwhelming, and the holiday cheer is infectious. Be sure to bundle up, as the weather can be chilly, but the warm ambiance of the city more than compensates.
Brussels during the Christmas season is a feast for the senses, combining history, culture, and festivity in one unforgettable package. Whether you’re marveling at the Grand Place’s light show, savoring Belgian chocolates, or simply soaking in the holiday ambiance, this magical city promises to leave you with memories to treasure.
Noura Khan, a travel influencer and content creator, is a Kuwaiti national, holds a degree in law from Kuwait University and has worked as a journalist prior to taking up a position in the government. In 2018 she started blogging on travel and visited more than 57 countries since. She has more than 105k followers on her blog post @nourajtraveller is well appreciated for content and travel information. Noura writes exclusively for The Times Kuwait on her travel visits.
