The first day of 2025 will see multiple businesses closed for the first public holiday of the year. However, there are a few exceptions in the capital.
Most public and administrative services, such as banks, will be closed during the bank holiday. The postal services will also not be operating for the day.
Although some supermarkets including Lidl, Carrefour, and Aldi will be closed, smaller grocery stores like Carrefour Express shops will remain open. While some Delhaize stores will also be closed, others will remain open with adjusted opening times.
Many retail shops will also be closed on 1 January around Brussels, including major shopping centres such as City2.
The Christmas market, 'Winter Wonders', will remain open on New Year's Day for those who want to hold on to the festive season a bit longer. Keep in mind that opening times will be adjusted, and the market will close at 18:00 instead of 22:00.
For those looking for an activity involving arts and culture, most museums and cultural venues will be closed in the city for the day. However, multiple cinemas in Brussels will remain open, offering a selection of screenings for anyone looking to recover from the previous night's celebration in a dark room, in the company of the big screen.
Public transport will remain operational throughout the country. Information regarding schedules can be found via the transport services' app or website.
Like every year, the emergency services, including the police or medical services, will remain available on New Year's Day. In case of an emergency, 112 will still be operational.
