As winter sets in, the nights are getting longer and the magic of Christmas is starting to stir. The cities are decked out in fairy-tale lights and festivities are springing up everywhere. We have selected five must-see Christmas markets in and around the Ardennes. From the most unusual to the most traditional, they will inspire you and captivate you. Amazing and delightful treats await!
IN THE PROVINCE OF LUXEMBOURG
Mini town, maxi market, in Durbuy
In the Middle Ages, Durbuy was an important commercial hub. Nowadays, the charming town is more of a tourist hotspot and is the ideal destination for a family day out. In winter, the ‘smallest town in the world’ holds a Christmas market in the historic city centre, filling its alleys with magic, delicious aromas and enchanting flavours. Are you a fan of Christmas lights? We are too, and here they transform the whole town; they emphasise the beauty of the historical buildings and the natural heritage of Durbuy, and you can see them reflected in the River Ourthe.
Why do we like it?
- Because of its flexibility. It is open several days of the week, for several weeks, which makes it easy to plan a visit.
- Because under the Christmas lights, the medieval city is all the more magical.
IN THE PROVINCE OF HAINAUT
Christmas at Enghien Castle
This Christmas market in Hainaut takes place in an exceptional natural setting: the park of Enghien Castle, which serves as the backdrop, was once (in the 17th century) considered one of the most beautiful parks in Europe. Nowadays, it is classified as Major Cultural Heritage of Wallonia. You can admire the perfect geometry of certain spaces, the themed gardens, the water features, etc.
In December, it's time for the Christmas market! The artisans set up their stalls in the park and the castle. You can enjoy a visit to the park in the open air and take shelter, if necessary, in the authentic vaulted stable, the newly renovated stables and in the beautiful acacia room.
Why do we like it?
- Because of the spectacular natural and architectural setting.
- Because there is free access to the park during the market.
- Because of its outdoor AND indoor options, which mean you don’t have to worry about the capricious Belgian weather.
Fancy a family break before the busy end-of-year festivities?
Christmas is about celebration, family and sharing... But, let's face it, there’s also a lot of rushing around to finish all the preparations. So take a break: visit these Christmas markets and enjoy the magic during a (long) weekend in the Ardennes.
IN THE PROVINCE OF LIEGE
The oldest and most traditional, in Eupen
Pre-Christmas festivities are serious business in the East Cantons. It is probably the region of Belgium where customs are most marked, where Christmas markets and traditional festivities abound. The proximity of Germany, THE birthplace of the Christmas market, obviously plays a role.
Eupen is home to the oldest Christmas market in Belgium, in the purest tradition of the genre. Stalls fill the town centre, traditional shops open their doors and events are organised throughout the weekend: merry-go-round and activities for children, concerts in Saint Nicolas church, guided tour of the Nativity scenes and more.
Why do we like it?
- For its hyper-traditional extras: Life-size advent calendar. The 24 ‘little doors’ (made by local schoolchildren) are scattered throughout the city of Eupen. Every day at 5.30 p.m. the door of the day is opened, as is the tradition.
- An Advent wreath serves as a countdown. The flower arrangement decorates a fountain in the city centre. The progression of Advent is marked by lighting an extra candle each week
- Nativity scene walk. The churches and chapels of Eupen are architectural gems to be discovered. A small leaflet (or a guided torchlit walk in German) leads you along these buildings to admire their nativity scenes. To enjoy a quiet and peaceful atmosphere.
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In the Caves of Wonck in Bassenge
This market is probably the most unusual in the Ardennes and in Belgium because it takes place in the very heart of the caves. The site is an old tufa quarry estimated to be over 2,000 years old. The two galleries, some 700m long, are beautifully lit for the occasion and the artisans exhibit their creations in a unique, rough, natural setting, protected from the elements.
Why do we like it?
- Because of its exceptional natural setting, which is truly magical under the Christmas lights.
- Because of its genuine artisans.
- Because of its temperature with no unpleasant surprises: it is between 11° and 13°C all year round. TIP: Dress accordingly.
ANOTHER TIP: if the site is closed (!) and the market is quite busy... aim for off-peak hours to make the most of it.
! Mark your calendars for 2025! The Christmas market in the Wonck caves will not take place in 2024 due to security measures
IN THE PROVINCE OF NAMUR
Monacal, in Maredsous Abbey
Maredsous Abbey is located in the Molignée valley and is one of the most beautiful abbeys in Belgium. This pious setting naturally lends itself to Christmas festivities. For more than a month, the Abbey lives to the rhythm of Christmas: artisan's chalets, decorative lights, street performers, and an ephemeral restaurant...
Why do we like it?
- Because of the lights that emphasise the abbey’s neo-Gothic architecture.
- Because of its duration: you have five weekends to visit it, even Christmas Day!
Fancy a sporting challenge for Christmas?
The Maredsous Xmas Night Trail is a slightly more demanding but highly original way of contributing to the Christmas spirit: the event raises money for a charity. The night race, of 17 or 30 kilometres, takes runners deep into the Ardennes, in the middle of nature, along the hilly paths of the Molignée valley.
©Megane Fontaine
©Megane Fontaine
Good to know
Ice rinks have been all the rage in recent years. But climate change is causing some cities to cancel this kind of attraction, sometimes at the last minute, because it consumes a lot of energy. Here you will find ice rinks and other fun activities on offer during the festive season.
