Keep shining bright Belgium: must-sees Christmas festivities

From Antwerp to Limburg, each city can light up your life. But each one has something special. Follow our guide to make a walking trail through a city of your choice or pick and choose the best photo spots this Xmas in Belgium.

You can also find all of these and more on our map.

Update: Looking for ALL things Christmassy in Belgium? Check out our bigger and better ultimate guide to celebrating Christmas time in Belgium this year.

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We also have a few top picks that you can do this holiday in Belgium that will add to the season's magic:

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1. Brussels by Lights 

Local or new to the city, we’re sure this year's Brussels by Lights is one you have to see. Brussels have jazzed up the 2020 Xmas by adding new light displays, plus special origami art you won’t see in any other city. But unlike some other Xmas light walks, you’re not given a map or guide. Instead, follow the lights you see and wander around the shopping streets in Brussels city centre to discover the top winter photo spots. 

The origami art is by Belgian designer Charles Kaisin. Go to the Saint-Hubert Galleries to see tons of origami gold paper birds hanging from above. Screw tradition! This is one Xmas art display that’s really worth seeing. To get all the deets on the best highlights of Brussels by Lights, go to our guide:

Brussels by Lights

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2. Light Up and Shine On in Bruges 

Get some winterglow pics in the heart of Bruges. You thought your neighbour putting Christmas lights on their windows and a wreath on the door was a lot of decor? Bruges has gone all out with 500 Xmas trees, 41 squares and streets all decorated, plus 10 special light displays. Hey, you don’t have to pay the electric bill! So wander the streets and see what you can find on a relaxing, wintery stroll. 

This year all the city gates of Bruges have light art signs on them, including “Light up, Shine on” at Gentpoort. We think that’s a pretty good photo spot to end the year with, don’t you? 

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What About the Kids? 

We hear you. Kids often don’t get their parents want to fill up the photo albums. If you’re looking for stuff to do with the kids this Christmas and want them to see the Xmas lights of Bruges, then we’re got a great combo activity for you. Sometimes showing them the Christmas lights around the city just isn’t enough to keep them entertained. Turn your Xmas lights walk into a game for the whole family by going on a Xmas themed treasure hunt in the centre of Bruges. 

One of the best family-friendly activities happening right now, this Xmas search is inspired by the kid’s book ‘Het is Kerst’ starring characters Luuk en Lotje by children’s author Ruth Wielockx. The book and search are best for kids aged 3 - 6. This Xmas game will let the kids search shop windows in Bruges as you walk through the city. The kids have to find Xmas decor and mark off their game sheet. Sound like fun? Click below for more info! 

Luuk and Lotje Xmas Search

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3. Winter Wonderland Window Shopping in Hasselt

Have you left your Christmas shopping ‘til the last minute or checking out the sales? You’re not the only one! While you’re browsing the shops in Hasselt for gifts for the squad, go ahead and push the red button. We promise good things will happen. Seriously. Some shops in Hasselt have put Christmas displays in their windows. All you have to do is push the button to bring it to life. Plus, you’ve got a chance of winning some local shopping vouchers if you complete the quiz after. 

Walk along Hasselt city centre to enjoy the Christmas winter wonderland while you shop. Some of them even play classic Xmas songs to really get you in the mood for the season. Shop til you drop or take up the challenge of the quiz! 

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4. Christmas Lights in Antwerp 

Walking around Antwerp is just what you need to bring some light to your Xmas this year. Start off your easy going walk in Grote Markt to see snowflakes on the City Hall. Walk under canopies of Christmas lights and drop by the bandstand for a photo under the hanging presents. 

Brighten up your winter! There’s tons of Christmas sights we don’t want you to miss in Antwerp this year. For more info and to see how pretty Het Steen looks this Christmas, check out our handy page on Antwerp’s Christmas lights:

Antwerp Christmas Lights

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5. The Dragons of Ghent 

Can dragons be Christmasssy? Ghent has answered that question. Take a walk this Christmas along the Lys river to see these symbols of the city lighting up your path. As much as we all love traditional festive decor, we’ve got to admit that dragons are kinda refreshing. Liven up your feed and have your friends saying dracarys. Need even more photos on your Christmas walk? No worries, Ghent has tons just for you. 

Tag along with your bubble or buddy beneath the Belfry. There, you’ll see a winter wonderland tunnel. Snap up photos of you hanging out under the pretty lights and tag us in it! We’d love to see how you’re bringing shine to your Christmas this year. 

6. Artsy Lights at the Beach

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Ever been to Knokke-Heist before? This city by the beach has unique sights to offer you this Christmas. From 5pm every night, Knokke-Heist lights up. Go on the free walk for 3km around the whole city to see all the light displays. From a recreation of Van Gogh’s famous Starry Night to modern art light displays, there’s really nowhere else you can go to enjoy such pretty Xmas lights by the beach.

Bringing the kids? The Light ART Festival at Knokke-Heist is a great pick. The kids have their own interactive, fun path to keep them entertained.

Light ART Festival

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