New Year's Eve is the key event on the agenda this weekend. But it's not just NYE, there is plenty to do in the coming days in the Belgian capital.
Ending with a bang
FCKNYE, Heysel, Saturday 30 and Sunday 31 December
For the sixth year, the techno festival 'FCKNYE', which is one of the largest indoor festivals in Europe, will take place in Brussels, at Palais 12 near the Atomium. This year, for the first time, it will be a two-day event, starting on 30 December.
Credit: FCKNYE
A total of 75 DJs and artists, including I Hate Models, Hamza and Amelie Lens, will ring in the new year on five different stages over an area of 80,000 m².
Find more information here.
Firework display, Place des Palais, Sunday 31 December
The iconic firework display will once again ensure people in Brussels end the year with a bang near Place des Palais, in the city centre, starting from 23:00.
Credit: BME
What better way to start the new year than under a sparkling sky, in awe of the dazzling spectacle? As Brussels has once again imposed a regional ban on fireworks, it is the best spot to enjoy such a show safely.
Find more information here.
Ginette NYE, Tour & Taxis, Sunday 31 December
Following the success of its Halloween bash at the unique Tour & Taxis location, club runner Ginette is back for more this New Year's Eve, returning to the exceptional space once again.
Credit: Tour & Taxis
Expect one of the biggest parties in town, starting at 21:00 until the early hours of the morning. Those who want to make the evening extra special can start the evening with a 2-course dinner in the venue's "guinguette" area.
Find more information here.
Out and about
The final weekend of Winter Wonders, various locations in Brussels
While some of the Brussels 'Winter Wonders' Christmas festivities – including the après-ski village at Place Monnaie, the light shows at Grand Place and the ice-skating and curling rink at Place De Brouckère – will be open for an extra week, this weekend marks the end of the main attraction around Sainte-Catherine.
Credit: Ville de Bruxelles
Those looking to take a final trip on the large Ferris wheel on the Marché aux Poissons or visit the wooden chalets to try some mulled wine and raclette have one final chance to make their way to the large market this coming weekend.
Find more information here.
Arts, music and culture
Special screening Poor Things, cinema Palace, Sunday 31 December
Beloved independent cinema Palace is hosting a special screening event for people looking to close off 2023 in a more unique, cultured way. It will be showcasing the pre-release of Yorgos Lanthimos' latest film, Poor Things, for which the director was awarded the Golden Lion for Best Film at the 2023 Venice Film Festival.
Emma Stone in Poor Things. Credit: Search Light Pictures/ Palace
The film tells the story of a young woman who was brought back to life by an unorthodox scientist. She flees with a lawyer on a whirlwind adventure across the continents, and freed from the prejudices of her time, embarks on the road to equality and liberation. The film is expected to end before 23:00, just in time for those looking to make it to another party.
Find more information here.
For the young ones
Noël au Théâtre Festival, various locations in Brussels, until Saturday 30 December
For its 41st edition, this traditional Christmas festival will bring a feeling of joy at no fewer than 11 Brussels venues, giving families a chance to explore various art forms in a warm and welcoming environment.
The festival will close with the performance POp!. Credit: NAT
On the menu for this festival are 22 theatre, music, puppet and dance shows for audiences of all ages, from 0 to 100 years old, including a new creation, two readings and a party to end the festival with a bang for all the children aged 2 to 12.
Find more information here.
