Brussels’s Winter Wonders Christmas market officially opened on Friday afternoon and will be running until 5 January.
The official opening took place at 6 pm at the Grand Place, attended by the Mayor of Brussels, Philippe Close, the Brussels Alderman for Culture, Delphine Houba, and other representatives.
Large crowds gathered at the square to enjoy the first sound and light show of the 24th edition, projected onto the historic facades of the Grand Place.
To mark the start of the festivities, a musical performance in collaboration with choirs from La Monnaie was held from the City Hall balcony.
At 6 pm the Christmas tree was lit up, adding to the atmosphere of the urban scene.
This year, the tree shines with a “unique and supportive” touch according to the city, thanks to a partnership with the Make-A-Wish Foundation, who fulfill the dreams of children with serious illnesses.
The tree will be adorned with elephants, symbolising the Côte d’Or brand, which supports this charitable event. Some decorations, signed by Belgian personalities, will be auctioned off, with all proceeds going to the Make-A-Wish foundation.
Besides the many chalets in the city centre, visitors can also expect immersive art pieces, the Ferris wheel, ice skating and curling at Place De Brouckère. In addition visitors can explore the French department of Var and its traditions at the “Var Village” set up at Place de la Bourse which is a guest of honour this year.
“Provence wines, olive oil, biscuits, tea, and candles… Everything the Var produces will be showcased weekly through new products offered by around thirty professionals,” Tom Guillaume, President of Var Tourisme, said at the opening ceremony.
