A respected national UK newspaper has named Brussels Christmas market as a “must see” this festive season.
The Telegraph newspaper ran an article highlighting what it says are the best Christmas markets in the world and Brussels was among those listed.
It rates the festive market in the city as the “best for atmosphere”.
The paper also ranks the city’s annual Yuletide market a lofty ten out of ten for food and drink, eight out of ten for artisanal goods on sale and six out of ten for culture.
The only score that was not so high was for the weather – just four out of then, says the Telegraph.
In its comments on the Christmas market here it says that “Brussels is unfairly maligned as a ‘boring’ place to visit.”
But the quality broadsheet goes on to add, “With its world-class art and buzzing new bars, it’s turning into a top destination in Europe – especially during the winter. The city is particularly good for its light shows, illuminating already-beautiful sights, like the Grand Palace, throughout the evening.”
For those thinking of visiting the city and/or its market this festive season it offers some advice.
It says, “If you’re travelling with little ones, check out the “monster” by the ferris wheel and the delightful carousel. And guests of all ages would be remiss to ignore the Belgian chocolate stalls: be sure to bring home plenty of praline delights.”
The market, called “Winter Wonders”, which attracts visitors from all over the world, starts on 29 November and runs until January 5. With some exceptions it is open daily from noon to 10pm. It features an ice rink and dozens of festive stalls and
New this year is ‘Heritage in Motion’ (City Hall), a “unique” experience to appreciate the splendor of the City Hall with a one-hour show combining history, heritage, and acrobatics.
The Christmas market extends this year to the Rue de la Madeleine where artisans from the Bortier Gallery, neighbouring shops and a Ukrainian association occupy Winter Wonders chalets to offer a wide range of products.
Lucia (court of the City Hall) gives you the chance to discover Lucia’s story through a unique structure that brings the ballerina back to life. The interactive work attracts the attention of passers-by, transforming the public space into a magical scene where art, music, technology, and strangers meet.
Other features this year are:
The Acoustic Thursdays (Tour Noire) bring a warm and intimate musical touch to the Tour Noire. Every Thursday evening, small acoustic music groups create a friendly and relaxed atmosphere.
‘Le Québec en chanson’ (Tour Noire): every Monday evening, Simon Goldin, from Montreal and living in France, invites you to sing, dance, and stomp along with him.
Echinodermus (Mont des Arts): discover this prickly plant inspired by the echinocactus, which unfurls its sparkling foliage 11 meters high, like a firework suspended in mid-flight.
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