Bits of the Benelux: 2024 Holiday Markets

Photo By Kristin Savage | Christmas and winter markets serve as a key highlight of the Benelux holiday season.  

BELGIUM

11.25.2024

Courtesy Story

U.S. Army Garrison Benelux

As the holiday season approaches, many events such as Christmas and Winter markets will occur throughout the European theater.

As the towns around Europe illuminate with Christmas lights, please remember to always maintain vigilance. When attending any events throughout Europe, U.S. Army Garrison Benelux community members should always be aware of their surroundings.

In light of the terroristic attacks of the summer, Germany passed a security legislation on carrying weapons in public spaces. The package includes an explicit ban on the carrying of knives at festivals, sporting events, markets, fairs and other large events.

In the Benelux, host nation and military communities alike take part in the seasonal fun. To experience this historic holiday tradition for yourself, check out our list of Christmas markets in the Benelux below.

[Note: This is not a comprehensive list of all markets in the Benelux region. No federal endorsement implied for external links.]

Chièvres Air Base/SHAPE  

Norwegian Christmas Market
Nov. 30
Experience a taste of Norway with Norwegian food and drinks, a children’s Christmas workshop and handmade arts and crafts for sale. Open from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the SHAPE Chapel.

German Christkindlmarkt
Nov. 30
Discover handcrafted gifts, Christmas decorations, German food and drinks, baked goods and much more. Open from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. behind the German Support Unit on SHAPE.

Christmas tree lighting ceremony
Dec. 5

Chièvres Air Base WinterFest Bazaar
Dec. 6 to 8
Chièvres Air Base will kick off the festive season with a multi-day bazaar offering hand-crafted items, food, furniture and décor items from around Europe. The WinterFest is from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Community Activity Center together with the Winter Bazaar, which runs from Dec. 6 to 8.

USAG-Benelux Brunssum/JFC Brunssum/NATO Air Base Geilenkirchen

School Christmas and Thanksgiving Fayre
Nov. 30
Enjoy food, games and a variety of international vendors. Admission is €2 per adult and is available to all U.S. and NATO ID card holders. Event is open from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at AFNorth International School.

JFC Brunssum Christmas Tree Lighting
Dec. 2
The Tri-Border community is invited to attend the JFC Brunssum Christmas Tree Lighting event outside of the JFC Brunssum Miner’s Rest Dec. 2 at 4:30 p.m. Enjoy music, snap photos with Santa, and watch the tree light up in a festive glow. Kids can even write letters to Santa! Warm up with free hot chocolate, glühwein, and sweet treats while soaking in the holiday cheer.

JFCBS MWA Christmas party
Dec. 3
The Tri-Border Community is invited to attend the JFC Brunssum Christmas Party at the International Conference Center from 4:30 to 10 p.m. Enjoy national food samples and fun activities for all ages. Admission can be purchased at the door. No parking on premises.

GK Christmas Tree Lighting
Dec. 5
Join NATO Air Base Geilenkirchen in welcoming the holiday season at the chapel from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Snap a pic with Santa and enjoy snacks, warm drinks, crafts, and more! Tree lighting takes place at 5 p.m.

Winterfest & Bazaar
Dec. 10 and 11
The Hub at USAG Benelux Brunssum has a winterfest and multi-day bazaar! Attend the Winterfest Dec. 10 from 5 to 8 p.m. for the tree decorating contest, Santa photo op from 5:30 to 7 p.m., movie at 6 p.m, live music, and games! The bazaar takes place Dec. 10 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. On Dec. 11, breakfast is served from 7:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. and then continue Bazaar shopping from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Belgium

Antwerp/ Anvers
Dec. 6 to Jan. 5
Experience a magical winter in Antwerp with a multitude of activities, illuminations, strolls and delicacies at the Christmas market. Enjoy a ride on the Ferris wheel or on the ice rink.
Source : https://visit.antwerpen.be/winter-in-antwerpen-2024

Bastogne
Dec. 15, 16 & 17
The Christmas market will be held during the NUTS DAYS, celebrating the 80th commemoration of the Battle of the Bulge in 1944/1945. The patriotic procession passes by the Patton monument, then the McAuliffe monument. After these ceremonies, the procession returns to the town hall for the traditional walnut-throwing ceremony.
Source : https://www.bastogne-tourisme.be/agenda/

Bruges
Nov. 22 to Jan. 5
Enjoy waffles, mulled wine, artisan specialties, ice skating and a new light experience trail while experiencing the wintry Bruges. Sundays through Thursdays open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays from 10:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. Christmas and New Years open with limited offerings and hours.
Source : https://www.visitbruges.be/en/winter-glow

Brussels
Nov. 29 to Jan. 5
Enjoy a memorable experience at the Brussels Christmas Market. With over 250 stalls, as they offer a variety of discoveries for young and old alike. Eventhough, the program is not yet revealed, the organization expects a ice rink to be present.
Source : https://bruxellessecrete.com/en/winter-wonders-christmas-market/

Charleroi
Nov. 29 to Jan. 5
Charleroi's Christmas village always is rather magical with its ice rink, stalls and animations dedicated to children. The Christmas village is until Dec. 31 and the ice rink until Jan. 7.
Source: https://visitwallonia.com/en-gb/content/charleroi-christmas-market-and-ice-rink

Durbuy
Nov. 22 to Jan. 5
The event takes place in weekends and during the winter vacations on weekdays. The Christmas Walk invites you to come and discover the many craftsmen and their products, the nativity scene and the ice rink. Enjoy the magic of Christmas in Durbuy!
Source : https://visitwallonia.be/fr-be/content/marche-de-noel-de-durbuy

Enghien
Dec. 13 to 15
Around a hundred artisans, creators, and producers to make this an unforgettable event. Activities will take place under wooden chalets in the former “Ecurie du château” and “Salle des Acacias”.
Source: https://www.facebook.com/marchedenoelenghien/

Ghent
Dec. 5 to 31
The town will be decked out in Christmas lights for several weeks, to the delight of all. Wander among the wooden huts with firs and pines, amble past stalls selling snacks and drinks, fancy trinkets and authentic crafts. The market will run from Sint-Baafsplein to the end of Korenmarkt, via Botermarkt and along Klein Turkije.
Source: https://visit.gent.be/en/calendar/christmas-market

Hasselt
Nov. 15 to Jan. 5
Hasselt's Winterland will have many exhibitors, huge ice rink, Christmas train, Santa's labyrinth and plenty of other surprises to delight young and old alike.
Source : https://www.winterland.be/nl

Havré
Dec. 6 to 8
The Château d'Havré Christmas Market returns with over 100 exhibitors and artisans to ensure a memorable festive season. Santa Claus will be on hand, along with a bar, snacks and a life-size nativity scene.
Source : https://visitwallonia.be/fr-be/content/marche-de-noel-au-chateau-dhavre

La Roche-en-Ardenne
Dec. 20 to 28
Once again, this year, you'll be treated to a traditional Christmas village, with live music, lots of activities and an ice-skating rink.
Source : https://visitwallonia.be/fr-be/content/marche-de-noel-dela-roche-en-ardenne-la-roche-en-hiver

Leuven
Dec. 11 to 22
The Christmas market on Ladeuzeplein & Hooverplein is back to offer you a warm and friendly atmosphere. With plenty of activities, including a festival of light, live music, a wide variety of food and drink, and lots of other surprises. Opening hours on Sun. through Wed. from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., and on Friday and Saturday till 11 p.m.
Source: https://leuvensekerstmarkt.com/welcome-de-leuvense-kerstmarkt.html

Liège
Nov. 29 to Dec. 30
With more than 150 exhibitors and artisans, the Liège Christmas Market is a not-to-be-missed event at the end of the year. The Christmas Village takes place on the Place du Marché near the Hôtel de Ville and around the Ferris wheel, at the enchanting ice rink on the Place Cathédrale, on the toboggan run on the Dalle Saint-Lambert, and on the artisans' alley in front of the Galeries Saint-Lambert and the department stores. The ice rink will be available from Nov. 29 to Jan. 4 on Place de la Cathédrale.
Source : https://www.villagedenoel.be/en

Mons
Dec. 7 to Jan. 5
As every year, "Mons Cœur en Neige" returns to bring you the magic of Christmas. In addition to the traditional chalets, you will discover the region's culinary specialties of Alsace. This is in addition to the food and drink of other regions.
Source : https://monscoeurenneige.be/

Namur
Nov. 29 to Dec. 31
The market will take place in Place de l'Ange and Place d'Armes. A variaty of products will be offered by artisans.
Source : https://www.namurenlumiere.be/le-marche-de-noel/

Soignies
Dec. 14 & 15
Come and discover many exhibitors, artisans, shows, concerts, and Christmas parade.
Source : https://www.soignies.be/fr/loisirs/grands-evenements/feeries.html

Germany
Aachen: Aachener Weihnachtsmarkt
Nov. 22 to Dec. 23
More than 100 vendors will offer Christmas decorations, candles and Printen, food and handicrafts from traditional workshops. Held around the Cathedral and Rathaus (English: Town Hall) in the city center.

Berlin

Berlin has various Christmas markets throughout the city, some have been mentioned below.

Weihnachtsmärkte in Berlin
Nov. 27 to Dec. 24
Enjoy a diverse array of offerings, including a medieval market, Ferris wheel, ice skating rink and more. Held between the Rotes Rathaus (Berlin City Hall) and St. Marienkirche in the city center.

Nov. 25 to Dec. 31 Berlin Bebelplatz Weihnachtsmarkt
Considered one of Berlin’s most popular Christmas Markets, experience a diverse array of handmade arts and crafts, holiday treats, music, acrobatic exhibitions and more. This year’s market will be held at the Bebelplatz due to construction to Gendarmenmarkt. Admission is €2.

International Christmas markets

Finnish Christmas market is on Nov. 23 and 24 from noon till 6 p.m. at Passionskirche und Innenhof des Finnland Zentrums.

The Berlin Japanese (Christmas) Market is on Nov. 24 from noon till 7 p.m. at Am Flutgraben 2. Admission is €15.

African Winter market on Nov. 30 from noon till 10 p.m. and Dec. 1 from noon till 8 p.m. at Kühlhaus Berlin.

Italian Christmas market is part of the Panettone & Friends Festival from Nov. 30 and Dec. 1 from 11 a.m. till 8 p.m. Admission is €4.

Danish Christmas market on Nov. 30 from noon till 7 p.m. and Dec. 1 from noon till 6 p.m. at Brienner Straße 12.

Swedish Christmas Market on Nov. 29 from 4 till 8 p.m., on Nov. 30 from noon till 7 p.m. and on Dec. 1 from noon till 6 p.m. at Landhausstraße 26-28. Admission €2.

Norwegian Julebazaar on Dec. 7 from noon till 7 p.m. at Wartenburgstraße 7.

The Very British Christmas Market on Dec. 7 at St. George's Anglican Church.

Bonn: Weihnachtsmärkte Bonn
Nov. 22 to Dec. 22
For 35 days, downtown Bonn will once again be transformed into an atmospheric city of 165 Christmas stalls selling a mix of arts and crafts and culinary offerings.

Duisburg: Duisburger Weihnachtsmarkt
Nov. 14 to Dec. 30
In the run-up to Christmas, the Duisburg city center is transformed into a sea of lights with over a hundred decorated wooden huts, decorated fir trees and all kinds of illuminated installations.

Dortmund: Dortmunder Weihnachtsmarkt
Nov. 21 to Dec. 30
Dortmund is famous for having the largest Christmas tree in the world with, over 250 stands sell handicrafts, Christmas decorations, toys, food and drink and entertainment.

Dülmen: Duelmener Winter
Nov. 15 to Jan. 5
During the winter, Dülmen is transformed into an atmospheric setting with colorful wooden huts, bright lights and festive sounds. During the Advent weekends, a Christmas market with over 40 vendors offers gift ideas, regional products, handcrafted items, food and drink. The Christmas market will be open weekends only. The huts around the ice-skating rink will be open as of Dec. 7 from 1 to 6 p.m.

Düren: Dürnener Weihnachtsmarkt
Nov. 21 to Dec. 23
A market offering gift and food stalls, music, a nativity play and other events. Held at the Marktplatz.

Düsseldorf: Düsseldorf Märkte
Nov. 21 to Dec. 30
Several Christmas markets are spread throughout Düsseldorf, each with their own unique theme and decorations.

Essen: Internationaler Weihnachtsmarkt Essen
Nov. 15 to Dec. 23
Enjoy lights, decorations and 170 food and gift stalls throughout the city center.

Frankfurt: Frankfurter Weihnachtsmarkt
Nov. 25 to Dec. 22
Starting at Roßmarkt, the Christmas market stretches along the Zeil all the way down to Römerberg and the Main River. Visitors can expect elaborately decorated stalls offering handicrafts and Christmas specialties from around the world, as well as a towering Christmas tree at Römerberg, set against the picturesque backdrop of the Old Town and Paulsplatz.

Gangelt: Weihnachtsmarkt Gangelt
Nov. 30 to Dec. 1
Nestled in the picturesque Rodebachtal and in the shadow of the castle tower near the new town hall, this market is popular for families and handmade products. At the end of the market day, an atmospheric Christmas party at St. Nikolaus Church welcomes musical support from bands. Saint Nikolaus also gives gifts to the young guests while the St. Hubertus Gangelt music association ensures a festive Christmas atmosphere with its melodies.

Geilenkirchen: Geilenkirchener Nikolausmarkt
Nov. 29 to Dec 1.
Enjoy around 25 vendors, food and drink and musical performances. Held in the inner courtyard of the Episcopal Gymnasium St. Ursula.

Gelsenkirchen: Der Weihnachtsmarkt in der City
Nov. 21 to Dec. 23
Enjoy around 40 vendors, musical entertainment and food and drink options. Held on Heinrich-König-Platz and Neumarkt. Open Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 8 p.m.

Hamburg
Nov. 18 to Dec. 23
Enjoy the special atmosphere of the Christmas season between the Elbe river and Alster lake, at historic churches, dreamy canals, lively squares and romantic corners of the Hanseatic city. Hamburg offers a multitude of Christmas markets to suit every taste - from modern, urban markets to traditional ones with a nostalgic flair.

Heidelberg: Christmas Market
Nov. 25 to Dec. 22
During the Advent stroll, you can discover numerous Christmas stalls in addition to the picturesque alleys and sights, which sell enchanting gift ideas in various places in the old town. Anyone looking for a sporting activity will find one of the most beautiful ice rinks in Germany with a view of the world-famous castle ruins on Karlsplatz.

Herzogenrath: Herzogenrather Weihnachtsmarkt
Dec. 13 to Dec. 15
The festive flair of the atmospheric castle backdrop, varied stage program, market alleys with artists and handicrafts with a wide range of offerings put you in the Christmas spirit and at the same time the Christmas market in the city invites you to stroll with atmosphere, entertainment and a shopping weekend.

Jüchen: Schloss Dyck
Nov. 30 to Dec. 22 (weekends only)
Set against the backdrop of the historic Schloss, around 150 exhibitors offer a variety of Christmas decorations, jewelry, textiles, home accessories, food and drinks and arts and crafts. The stable courtyard and tea house are open to visit, and a nativity play is held every half hour from noon to 7 p.m. on the Schloss terrace. Tickets are €18.50 for adults and €3 for children ages 7 to 16. Admission is free for children under 7.

Kaiserslautern: Lautrer Advent
Nov. 21 to Dec. 30
From Christmas market to music performances, a variety of activities and markets can be found in and around Kaiserslautern.

Koblenz: Koblenzer Weihnachtsmarkt
Nov. 22 to Jan. 5
Visit a Christmas Market spread across six squares in Koblenz’s old town. In addition to food, drinks and an arts and crafts market, the façade of the town hall on Jesuitenplatz is transformed into the largest advent calendar in the city.

Köln/Cologne
Nov. 21 to Dec. 23
Various markets and activities throughout the holiday months, check the website for specific information.
Source: https://www.cologne-tourism.com/experiences-lifestyle/christmas

Kölner Hafenweihnachtsmarkt
Nov. 15 to Dec. 23
Set overlooking the Rhine River, Köln’s Hafen-Weihnachtsmarkt (English: Harbor Christmas Market) offers a variety of fish specialties, food, drinks and products with a nautical theme. The event also includes a Ferris wheel, merry-go-round and a robust entertainment program. Held at the Köln Chocolate Museum.

Weihnachtsmarkt am Kölner Dom
Nov. 18 to Dec. 23
Held in front of the famous Kölner Dom (Köln Cathedral), the market includes 130 vendors offering handicrafts, food and drink options, artist demonstrations and over 100 free music and cultural events.

Heinzels Wintermärchen
Nov. 25 to Jan. 5
Köln’s largest Christmas market boasting over 140 vendors, an ice skating and ice stock sport (similar to curling) rink, live demonstrations and a robust program of events. Held across the Alter Markt and Heumarkt.

Langerwehe: Romantic Christmas Market: Schloss Merode
Nov. 27 to Dec. 22
A market offering traditional handicrafts, food and drink and interactive performances by regional musicians, actors and artists. Tickets are required for admission and can be purchased online in advance or at the market entrance.

Monschau: Monschauer Weihnachtsmarkt
Nov. 29 to Dec. 21 (Friday through Sunday only)
Many Christmas highlights await, such as the visit of St. Nicholas on Saturdays, local tours and hikes and Advent concert performances throughout the market season. A variety of vendors offer handicrafts, jewelry and accessories, fashion items, leather goods, antiques and more.

München/Munich: Weihnachtsmarkt am Chinesischen Turm
Nov. 27 to Dec. 22
Various markets and activities throughout the holiday months, check the website for specific information

Münster: Münster Weihnachtsmärkte
Nov. 25 to Dec. 23
Six Christmas markets transform the Old Town into a winter fairy tale, with lights, decorations, live music and over 300 product and food stalls.

Stuttgart: Weihnachts Markt
Nov. 27 to Dec. 23
One of the largest and oldest Christmas markets in Europe will be opening. The Stardust Circus International present their 30th year show from Dec. 5 to Jan. 6.

Wesseling: Wesselinger Weihnachtsmarkt
Nov. 29 to Dec. 1
A small market of around 50 local exhibitors held in Wesseling’s Alfons-Müller-Platz. Open Friday and Saturday from noon to 9 p.m., and Sunday from noon to 7 p.m.

Wiesbaden: Twinkling Star Christmas Market
Nov. 26 to Dec. 23
The 22nd Twinkling Star Christmas Market on the Schlossplatz and in front of the Marktkirche will have numerous sales and catering stands. The mobile ice rink is open from Nov. 26 to Jan. 12.

Wuppertal: Weihnachtsmarkt Schloss Lüntenbeck
Dec. 6 to 8 and Dec. 13 to 15
Enjoy a market of around 100 stalls selling handicrafts, food and drinks, selected works of art and musical entertainment. Tickets are €8 at the entrance, €7 pre-sale, and free admission for children under 14. Open 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

The Netherlands

Amsterdam
Kerstmarkt Amsterdam
Dec. 12 to 26
At the Museumplein from Dec. 12 to 26 is the largest Christmas market of Amsterdam.

Amsterdam Winter Paradise RAI
Dec. 19 to Jan. 5
The RAI Amsterdam Convention Center will once again be transformed both inside and out for the winter. Activities include an indoor and outdoor ice-skating track, cross-country skiing, curling, a Ferris wheel, cinema, live music and more.

Arnhem: Winter Wonderland Arnhem
Dec. 14 to 29 (Weekends only)
Claimed to be the “Largest Christmas Market in the East,” the market in Arnhem includes more than 200 stalls, musical performances, food and drink, a Christmas Express steam train, festive lighting and much more.

Haarlem: Kerstmarkt Haarlem
Dec. 13 to 15
From Dec. 8 to 10, the city center of Haarlem will be transformed into one of the largest and liveliest Christmas markets in the Netherlands.

The Hague: Royal Christmas Fair
Dec. 5 to 23
Located in the historic heart of The Hague, the eighth edition of the Royal Christmas Fair is planned to be bigger than ever. In addition to 110 stalls, the event includes a children’s Christmas fair, food and drink, a diverse program of cultural events and visits from Santa.

Maastricht: Magical Maastricht
Nov. 28 to Dec. 30
Winter activities abound in Vrijthof Square during the month of December. The square will be filled with winter-themed chalets, and musical and cultural events are planned throughout the month. There will also be a Ferris wheel, ice skating and curling rinks and a tube glide. Outside of the square, lights and decorations wind throughout the city in three illuminated routes.

Rotterdam:
Throughout Dec.
Many Christmas Markets can be found in Rotterdam throughout the month of December. Check out their website for more information.
https://weekendsinrotterdam.com/christmas-markets-rotterdam/

Thorn: Kerstmarkt Thorn
Dec. 8
Discover 70 vendors offering Christmas decorations, jewelry, antiques, ceramics, garden décor and more set in the historic city center.

Utrecht
Country and Christmas Fair at Kasteel de Haar
Nov. 21 to 26
Enjoy the wintery ambiance of Anton Pieck, in the leafy gardens of Kasteel de Haar. Walk through 220 exhibitors showcasing collectibles, antiques, jewelry, clothing, food and more, and enjoy entertainment ranging from carol singers to water shows.

Winter Market Molen de Ster
Dec. 14 and 15
The yard of Molen de Ster will once again be transformed into a winter wonderland with over 50 stalls offering local products and food and drink options on site. Free guided tours will also be given in the mill.

Valkenburg
Christmas Market in Valkenburg
Nov. 15 to Jan. 5
Several different markets take place around the city center but also the caves of Valkenburg.

Claimed to be Europe’s largest underground Christmas market, the Municipal Cave is home to hundreds of decorated stalls, food options and lights located alongside charcoal drawings and cave art.

France

Colmar
Nov. 26 to Dec. 30
Situated right in the heart of the historic town center, Colmar’s six Christmas markets radiate warmth and an inviting atmosphere to all. Each hosting its own particular theme, the markets and illuminated streets will delight young and old visitors alike.
Source: https://www.noel-colmar.com/en/

Lille
Nov. 20 to Dec. 29
During the market, the heart of Lille is decked out in lights and a multitude of decorations. More than 90 chalets offer a variety of gift ideas from both local and international craftsmen, a Ferris wheel offers breathtaking views of the city and festive activities are scheduled throughout the market season. Held on Place Rihour.
Source: https://noel-a-lille.com/

Paris
Tuileries Garden Christmas Market – The Magic of Christmas
Nov. 16 to Jan. 1
With more than 80 exhibitors, you'll find the flavors of France, not to mention many activities, all under the Christmas lights.

Christmas Village on La Defense Esplanade
Nov. 14 to Dec. 29
Come and discover the biggest Christmas market in Paris with over 150 exhibitors. You'll find plenty of entertainment, food and drink. Meet Santa Claus in person.

Strasbourg
Nov. 27 to Dec. 27
Held since 1570, its famous "Christkindelsmärik," the Alsatian dialect name given to the traditional "Christ Child Market", is one of the oldest in Europe. During the market, over 300 chalets are set up almost everywhere in the city center. Additionally, the streets, houses, bridges, church facades and most monuments are clothed in light and the “most decorated Christmas tree in Europe” can be found in Place Kléber.
Source: https://noel.strasbourg.eu/en/

Luxembourg
Luxembourg City: Christmas in Luxembourg City
Nov. 22 to Jan. 1
Spread across four locations in the city center and Gare district, chalets offer a variety of both traditional and unconventional decorations, handicrafts, toys, clothes, jewelry, food and drinks. There is also entertainment in the form of children’s rides, a Ferris wheel, a circus, workshops, children’s shows and more.

• Date Taken: 11.25.2024
• Date Posted: 11.25.2024 13:46
• Story ID: 486088
• Location: BE