December has started and the festive season had officially begun. It’s time to stuff our faces with yummy food, to put up and decorate the Christmas tree, to shop for Christmas presents and just to enjoy the atmosphere, albeit in a slightly more modest way than other years. If you are living in Belgium or if you have the chance to visit the country someday soon, you might want to make a stop in Brussels. The Belgian capital always has a lot to offer to tourists but during the festive season, it’s even better than usual.
1. Festive Brussels
You might already have heard about the famous Christmas tree on the Grand Place and you’re certainly acquainted with the Belgian chocolate shops, which go all out during the festive season. That alone should be more than reason enough to go for a stroll in Brussels. Even during the corona crisis, the city is full of good vibes and interesting sights. And that hot chocolate tastes just as good when you have it on the go as when you have it in an actual café or restaurant. Especially if you have something wonderful to look at. Well, we’ve good some good news for you, because this year the city center is even more beautiful than usual.
2. Charles Kaisin
How come, you’re asking? Well, this year, the city of Brussels and the Société des Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert have asked artist Charles Kaisin and his team to brighten up the streets of the capital with some splendid origami-themed art. Combined with the festive lighting, this makes for a perfect little tour of the city center.
3. Origami tour
People living in Brussels will no doubt be acquainted with the Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert. The name might even ring a bell if you’ve never actually been to Brussels, as it’s one of the most famous sights in the center. The galleries actually consist of three different parts: the Galerie de la Reine, the Galerie du Roi and the Galerie des Princes. They are filled with chocolate shops, restaurants, luxury goods and everything your heart desires. And, apart from that, they’re an absolute gem to look at. Nowadays – and until February – you should definitely look up when making your way through the magnificent buildings, as you will be rewarded by the sight of different origami artworks. And that’s not all, because the festive decoration continues throughout the Ilôt Sacré-neighborhood and the Grand Place, all the way towards the lobby of Hotel Amigo, one of Brussels’ most famous accommodations. So buy that hot chocolate to go and let yourself be amazed by the beautiful scenery!
