Brussels’ Plaisirs d’Hiver and its Christmas market have become a classic as far as Christmas events go, with people from all over the world visiting the festive events and merchant stalls. However, the Plaisirs d’Hiver isn’t the only market to be found around Brussels this time of year. So if you’re looking for some special gifts or if you’d just like to enjoy a glass of mulled wine in good company, make sure to check out these 7 alternative Christmas markets.
1. Boom de Noël – 6-8 December
Organised by asbl Fais-le toi-même at the UR Square in Ixelles, the Boom de Noël is a creative and sustainable Christmas market assembling no less than 115 local businesses. There will be a gift to find for everyone in your life and thanks to the kids-friendly animations, you’ll be able to take the whole family. Hungry? No worries, there are food trucks on-site to make sure your shopping spree can go on uninterrupted.
Address: Avenue de la Couronne 227, 1050 Bruxelles
2. Marché de Noël aux Pilifs – 7-8 December
Qualitative artisanal products, a forest of eco-responsible fir trees, a delicious tartiflette, mulled wine, gifts and gourmet treats… you’ll find it all at the sustainable Christmas market organised by La Ferme Nos Pilifs. As December has only just started, it’s the perfect convivial place to both shop for a Christmas tree and get into the festive spirit, all while supporting the local economy and the employment of 145 disabled people.
Address: Trassersweg 347, 1120 Neder-Over-Heembeek
3. Brussels Makers Market Christmas Edition – 8 and 15 December
For two Sundays in a row, the Gare Maritime at Tour & Taxis will host the Brussels Makers Market, Christmas Edition. 90 makers will present their best art and other treasures in an already well-known setting. And in case you like the concept, you’ll be able to come back every month for their special makers event.
Address: Picardstraat, 1000 Brussels
4. Xmas Stockel Village – 10-15 December
The Xmas Stockel Village really has all one might expect from a Christmas market. Artisans and other creators can be found alongside delicious festive treats, while kids can participate in a wide range of workshops and even meet Santa.
Address: Place Dumon, 1150 Woluwe-Saint-Pierre
5. Slow Ho Ho – 12-15 December
For the last 7 years, the people behind Tiroir de Lou have been organising their very own small-scale Christmas market and this year will be no different. Aside from jewellery brand Tiroir de Lou themselves, you’ll find a small yet qualitative selection of local artisans, accompanied by a just as qualitative offer of bites and drinks.
Address: Rue Joseph Wauters 19, 1030 Schaerbeek
6. Continental Winter Market – 13-15 December
With the Belgian weather being what it is, an indoor Christmas market option is more than welcome. Temporary cultural space Continental is organising its second indoor Christmas market, welcoming over 50 local artisans. You’ll find handmade jewellery alongside ceramics, chocolates, embroideries and even flash tattoos.
Address: De Brouckèreplein 41, 1000 Brussels
7. Village de Noël at Rouge-Cloître – 14-15 December
The Rouge-Cloître site makes for quite the romantic setting and thus it doesn’t come as a surprise that once a year it gets transformed into a cosy Christmas market. Over 50 artisans and artists are setting up shop, while kids will get to meet farm animals and adults will be able to enjoy a drink at La Maison du Prieur. The Centre d’Art de Rouge-Cloître will also host the vernissage of the Prix Découverte 2024-2025, combining Christmassy crafts with art.
Address: Rue du Rouge-Cloître 7, 1160 Auderghem
