Parents who have to entertain their kids 24/7 during the Christmas holidays in Belgium, will be able to scratch at least one day from the calendar this year. For the first time ever, the Belgian amusement parks Walibi and Bellewaerde – both part of the Compagnie des Alpes amusement group – are opening their doors to the public over Christmas.
Normally, in Belgium, people associate amusement parks with summertime. Even though they are usually open until Halloween, the winter months tend to be quiet on the amusement front and so most of the parks shut their doors. This year, however, things are different. Walibi will be open from December 16th until January 7th, while Bellewaerde opens from December 9th onwards. Both will be operating as normal and they will of course be entirely covered with Christmas themed decorations. Water attractions will be shut but both parks have thought of a way to compensate for that loss, all while putting the Christmas spirit in the spotlights.
Walibi has chosen to arrange four themed areas around their main attractions. The Glowing Greetings area will be filled with Christmas trees and nutcrackers. The Alpine Village will host a Christmas market with no less than 18 chalets. The Frozen Land boasts an ice skating ring and ice shows. And last but not least, the Polar Playground takes over the usual playground across the lake.
Bellewaerde too will be all equipped for Christmas. Many permanent attractions will remain open, including some novelties such as Hampi and Psssht Station. At the new restaurant, King’s Table, visitors will be able to enjoy a (maybe much-needed) warming snack or drink.
All exact opening days and times can be found through the amusement parks’ websites. Ticket sales will no doubt go quickly so if you want to make sure there’s a spot left, you might want to reserve your visit pretty soon.
