Visiting Christmas markets with children is all about the small moments: curious faces, warm hands wrapped around hot chocolate and the soft glow of winter lights around you. Belgium, with its historic towns and beautifully lit squares, is a wonderful place for a family-friendly Christmas trip. With warm coats and mittens packed, this guide will take you through markets filled with gentle rides, cozy stalls and festive treats — the kind of winter experiences that are easy to enjoy together.
1. Ciney Christmas Market – Les Féeries du Parc
Arriving in Ciney at dusk has a certain charm. As the sky turns soft lavender and the park begins to glow, Saint-Roch Park slowly transforms into a winter setting that feels both inviting and atmospheric. Thirty towering Christmas trees light up the paths, their colors reflecting softly through the branches and creating a gentle, fairytale-like entrance to the Féeries du Parc. The air carries the scent of cinnamon, roasted nuts and warm winter treats — a combination that instantly sets the tone for the evening.
Inside the park, it becomes clear that this isn’t a traditional market but a full festive experience. The Venetian Parade is one of its highlights: performers dressed in elaborate costumes, swirling fabrics and shimmering masks move through the crowd, capturing the attention of children and adults alike. Around them, local artisans showcase handmade toys, winter accessories and carefully crafted ornaments — the kind people often bring home as keepsakes.
As twilight deepens, Place Monseu’s ice rink comes to life. It’s a lively spot where children try their first steps on the ice or practice new skills while music plays softly in the background. Not far away, Santa’s House offers a quiet moment for families to stop by, take a photo and enjoy the cozy atmosphere.
The evening continues with concerts, illuminated pathways and small art installations throughout the park, giving visitors plenty to explore at their own pace. Féeries du Parc is less about shopping and more about experiencing a carefully created winter world — a mix of light, movement and seasonal traditions that make a visit to Ciney feel genuinely special.
Don’t miss:
The illuminated garlands and 30 giant decorated Christmas trees throughout Saint-Roch Park
Santa’s visits, live concerts and the artistic light trail
Ice skating at Place Monseu, especially fun for younger children
Why kids love it: The magical winter chalet, Santa’s presence, and beautiful decorations create an immersive Christmas experience for children.
Best time to visit: Weekday evenings in December are less crowded, but evenings
Location & Address
4 – 8, 11 – 15, 18 – 22 December 2025
Parc Saint-Roch
Entrance Fee
Market: Free to enter; activities and food sold separately.
More info:
Ciney Christmas Market
Nearby Family Hotel Recommendations
Le 25, Duplex élégant au cœur du piétonnier historique – Spacious duplex apartment in Namur's historic pedestrian center, perfect for families exploring Ciney Christmas Market. Enjoy stylish comfort with easy access to festive lights and kid-friendly stalls, just a short drive away.
Les Cerisiers – Appartement de Standing au Centre de Namur – Luxury family apartment in central Namur, offering upscale space near Ciney’s magical holiday market. Ideal for parents with children, featuring modern amenities for cozy post-market evenings.
Maurice en ville n14 – Charming city retreat in Namur, tailored for family travelers visiting Ciney’s festive park wonders. Provides comfortable stays with proximity to family-oriented Christmas attractions and local delights.
2. Antwerp Christmas Market
Antwerp feels especially lively during the festive season, with its connected squares forming a bright trail of lights, music and winter activity. The city has a welcoming energy in December, and families quickly find plenty of places to pause, explore and enjoy the atmosphere.
Operaplein is often one of the first stops for children. The traditional carousel, with its wooden horses and soft golden glow, brings an old-world charm that fits beautifully into the surroundings. Christmas music floats through the air, and the carousel’s gentle pace makes it a simple, joyful attraction for younger visitors.
Groenplaats becomes a busy winter hub, home to a popular ice rink surrounded by food stalls serving waffles, chocolate drinks and seasonal snacks. Families gather here throughout the day, with children practicing their first steps on the ice while parents watch from the sidelines. Street performers, magicians and musicians appear across the nearby streets, creating spontaneous moments of entertainment that draw small crowds before they move on to explore the next square.
As the day turns colder, warm drinks and fresh waffles are easy to find, and the decorated trees and illuminated buildings give the city center a soft glow. The giant Ferris wheel at Steenplein is another highlight for families. From the top, the views stretch across the harbour, the cathedral and the market squares below — a calm moment above the festive bustle, especially beautiful after sunset.
Don’t miss:
The historic carousel at Operaplein
The Singing Christmas Tree at Handschoenmarkt
The illuminated light tunnel on Suikerrui
The Ferris wheel at Steenplein
Ice skating on Groenplaats
Why kids love it: Kids enjoy the merry-go-round, ice skating rink, the big Ferris wheel, and family-friendly workshops.
Best time to visit: Early evenings or weekday afternoons for manageable crowds.
Location & Address
5 December 2025 – 4 January 2026
Grand Place, Suikerrui, Groenplaats, Handschoenmarkt, Hendrik Conscienceplein & Operaplein
Entrance Fee
Market: Free to enter; attraction fees vary.
More info:
Antwerp Christmas Market
Nearby Family Hotel Recommendations
Hotel Colvenier – Family-friendly hotel in Antwerp’s heart, steps from the enchanting Christmas Market lights and ice rink. Spacious rooms and central location make holiday outings with kids effortless and joyful.
Botanic Sanctuary Antwerp, The Leading Hotels of the World – Luxury wellness retreat amid botanic gardens, perfect for families unwinding after Antwerp’s vibrant market visits. Offers kid-approved luxury, spa relaxation, and easy access to festive family fun.
Gulde Schoen Luxury Studio-apartments – Elegant studio apartments in Antwerp, designed for families savoring the Christmas Market’s magic. Modern comforts and prime location ensure stress-free holiday adventures with little ones.
3. Ghent Christmas Market – Ghent Winter Festivities
Ghent welcomes visitors with a beautiful mix of medieval architecture and winter lights. During the Gentse Winterfeesten, the area around Sint-Baafsplein and Korenmarkt turns into a festive route of illuminated squares, historic façades and small wooden chalets. The atmosphere is lively but still relaxed, with stalls offering handmade toys, seasonal treats and small gifts that children love to look through.
One of the most eye-catching spots is the giant Ferris wheel, which rises above the rooftops and offers wide views over Ghent’s winding canals and old streets. Its slow rotation makes it a gentle, family-friendly ride and a nice way to see the city from above. Another highlight for younger visitors is the Sapin Magique carousel — a beautifully lit attraction with a canopy of tiny LEDs that give it a soft, magical glow.
The ice rink set against the modern Stadshal is also popular, especially in the early evening when the surrounding lights reflect on the ice. There’s usually a section designed for children, making it a comfortable place for first spins and slower practice laps. Around the rink, you’ll find plenty of warm drinks and sweet snacks, including the waffles Ghent is known for.
The market chalets provide cozy spots to pause, warm up and enjoy a simple break with a hot drink. What stands out in Ghent is the mix of creativity, friendliness and winter atmosphere — a setting that encourages wandering, discovering small corners and enjoying the season together.
Don’t miss:
The giant Ferris wheel Grand Soleil
The ice rink at Stadshal, including the kid-friendly section
The Sapin Magique Christmas tree carousel
Why kids love it: Fun rides, interactive Christmas scenes, and tasty treats like waffles and hot chocolate delight children.
Best time to visit: Early evenings for a cozy, lit-up experience.
Location & Address
4 – 31 December 2025
Sint-Baafsplein, Botermarkt, Korenmarkt, Klein Turkije
Entrance Fee
Market: Free entrance; rides and activities extra.
More info:
Ghent Christmas Market
Nearby Family Hotel Recommendations
1898 The Post – Historic boutique hotel in Ghent’s core, ideal for families immersed in Winter Festivities glow. Converted post office charm with spacious family rooms near market rides and treats.
NH Collection Gent – Contemporary family hotel in Ghent, close to the lively Christmas Market and winter events. Features connecting rooms, breakfast buffets, and easy walks to kid-friendly festivities.
B&B The Verhaegen – Cozy boutique B&B in Ghent, welcoming families to nearby Winter Festivities magic. Intimate luxury with homemade breakfasts, perfect for creating Christmas memories with children.
4. Bruges Christmas Market – Winter Glow Bruges
Every time we enter Bruges in winter, it feels like the world’s most romantic village has come alive for our family alone. The medieval streets glimmer with festive lights wrapped lovingly around candy-colored houses, each cobblestone echoing the laughter of children bundled in scarves. My youngest points out the illuminated trail, “Look, Mama! The city is glowing!” It’s true—Winter Glow turns the city into a living mosaic, where each corner hides a new spectacle, from twinkling lanterns to animated light installations.
We explore Markt Square, where the ice rink takes center stage. Our children rush to skate, their first wobbly steps transforming quickly into fearless spirals beneath the watchful gaze of the monumental Ferris wheel. I close my eyes for a moment and allow the sounds—the swooshing skates, the holiday music, the multilingual greetings—to blend into pure magic. Nearby, tiny wooden chalets are brimming with delectable Belgian chocolates, steaming mugs of choco, and waffles just out of the iron. My partner and I swap stories with other parents, trading secrets on the best gifts and warmest cafes hidden off the main walkways.
As darkness falls, we follow the light experience trail—an illuminated adventure that snakes past ancient towers and quiet bridges, painting everything gold. The city cafes are inviting refuges, where we share laughter over bowls of Flemish stew with thick slices of bread. Bruges at Christmas isn’t just a market, it’s a feeling—a place where families drift together in a dreamscape that’s both historical and wonderfully childlike.
Don’t miss:
The Light Experience Trail with 10 different light installations and special appearances by Saint Nicholas.
Why kids love it: Interactive light tunnels, holiday treats, and Saint Nicholas giving presents make it magical for kids.
Best time to visit: After sunset—ideally weekdays for more space.
Location & Address
21 November 2025 – 4 January 2026
Market square, Simon Stevinplein, Minnewaterpark
Entrance Fee
Market: Free to enter; activities may have fees.
More info:
Bruges Christmas Market
Nearby Family Hotel Recommendations
Crowne Plaza Hotel Brugge by IHG – Family-friendly hotel right on Bruges’ historic Burg square, just steps from the Winter Glow ice rink and Christmas stalls. Spacious rooms, indoor pool, and on-site parking make it ideal for parents with kids exploring the market on foot.
The Notary – Stylish boutique stay in a quiet Bruges street, a short walk from the Winter Glow light trail and Christmas Market. Families enjoy generous rooms, cosy shared spaces, and easy access to festive canalside walks.
Grand Hotel Casselbergh – Elegant canal-side hotel combining historic charm with modern comfort, only minutes from Bruges Christmas Market and main square. Larger family rooms, wellness area, and a generous breakfast help everyone recharge between Winter Glow activities.
5. Brussels Christmas Market – Winterpret Brussels
Brussels’ Winterpret has a way of making an immediate impression. Visitors enter beneath a large illuminated archway, and from there the festive route stretches out for nearly two kilometers. Market stalls line the streets in every direction, each glowing with soft winter light. At Grand Place, the Christmas tree stands tall at the center, surrounded by historic façades that shimmer under delicate ornaments and evening lights.
Around Place Sainte-Catherine, the Ferris wheel rises above the rooftops, offering wide views over the city. From the top, the market below looks like a blanket of lights spread across the old town. Nearby, families gather at the city-center skating rink, where children practice careful laps while parents warm their hands around hot drinks. The scent of waffles, caramelized sugar and winter spices drifts through the air, making it easy to stop for a treat while walking between stalls.
Throughout the Winterpret route, musicians perform seasonal music, puppet displays appear in shopfronts and small attractions for children add to the festive feel. Santa-themed rides, light tunnels and artistic installations create moments to pause and look around. As evening deepens, Grand Place becomes the focal point for many visitors; its light and sound show bathes the buildings in shifting colors and creates a striking backdrop for the market.
With its mix of food, winter activities and creative displays, Winterpret is a lively, sensory experience that blends tradition with modern touches — a place where families can explore freely and enjoy the holiday atmosphere at their own rhythm.
Don’t miss:
The giant Ferris wheel at Place Sainte-Catherine
The eco-skating rink in the city center
Bouncy castles and children’s attractions along the route
The Lego construction room — especially fun for younger visitors
Why kids love it: Indoor playground, kids disco, circus shows, and meet & greets with festive characters.
Best time to visit: Weekday evenings or just after dark to catch all the lights!
Location & Address
28 November 2025 – 4 January 2026
Fish Market, Beurs, Muntplein, De Brouckereplein, Saint-Catherine Square, Grand Place
Entrance Fee
Market: Free entrance; some attractions may charge.
More info:
Brussels Christmas Market
Nearby Family Hotel Recommendations
High Budget (€200 – €700+ per night)
OPO Hotel – Design-forward hotel in central Brussels, placing families within easy walking distance of Winterpret’s Grand-Place light show and festive stalls. Soundproofed rooms and quality bedding ensure quiet nights after busy days at the Christmas Market.
Jardin du Béguinage – Peaceful Luxury Home in Brussels – Spacious luxury home-style stay overlooking a tranquil square, perfect for families wanting a calm base near Winterpret. Multiple bedrooms and a homely living area make it easy to relax together after exploring the rides, markets, and light displays.
The Dominican, Brussels, a Member of Design Hotels – Upscale design hotel between Grand-Place and the main shopping streets, ideal for families who want Winterpret on their doorstep. Comfortable interconnecting rooms and a cosy lounge offer a warm retreat from the Brussels Christmas buzz
Mid-range (€100 – €190 per night)
Hotel Agenda Louise – Great-value family base near Avenue Louise with quick tram connections to Winterpret and central Brussels sights. Larger rooms and simple, reliable comfort suit families who plan to spend the day at the Christmas Market and return to a quiet night’s sleep
Aparthotel Résidence Bara Midi – Practical aparthotel next to Brussels-Midi station with kitchen-equipped apartments for easy family meals. Direct metro and tram links take you quickly to Grand-Place and Winterpret, making it convenient for strollers and little legs.
6. Liège Christmas Market – Le Village de Noël
Known as Belgium’s oldest and largest Christmas village, Liège’s market is a wonderland with themed villages, dozens of food stalls, puppet shows, and gentle amusements. For families, it’s a hands-on winter playground filled with giggles.
Arriving in Liège for its Christmas Village feels like stepping into childhood again. The sprawling market sprawls over Place Saint-Lambert, the air brimming with holiday music and the fragrances of Belgian chocolate, cinnamon, and mulled wine. Puppet shows in hidden corners catch our children’s attention—their faces lit with pure joy as lively marionettes act out tales of winter, magic, and mischief. The laughter that bubbles up is contagious, echoing through the maze of chalets, each packed with local crafts and playful surprises.
There are gentle rides scattered throughout—the Ferris wheel, a kid-sized toboggan run, and a merry-go-round with snow-dusted horses—drawing families into a dance of movement and delight. We find a glowing ice rink framed by wreaths and cheerful crowds, and suddenly we're gliding hand in hand with our bundled-up children. Every so often, a local singer takes the stage, their voice weaving through the chilly night as we snack on hearty sausages fresh from the grill. The glow of lanterns grows deeper as the night falls, and shared laughter and gentle squeezes create a sense of belonging that lingers.
Liège’s Christmas Village is more than a festive market—it's a playground for the senses and the soul, a world where parents can become kids again and children feel the wonder of Christmas everywhere they look.
Don’t miss:
Puppet theaters, St. Nicholas visits with presents for children and a large skating rink with skates for kids.
Why kids love it: Christmas ice rink with special kids' skates (“skateettes”) and festive shows.
Best time to visit: Weekends for live festivities, but weekday visits are quieter.
Location & Address
28 November – 30 December 2025
Place Saint-Lambert & Place du Marché , Liège, Belgium
Entrance Fee
Market: Free entry; skating and activities have fees.
More info:
Liege Christmas Market
Nearby Family Hotel Recommendations
High Budget (€200 – €700+ per night)
Amosa Liège City Centre Hotel – Modern city-centre hotel within walking distance of Le Village de Noël and Liège’s main shopping streets. Family rooms and nearby parking make market visits and day trips along the Meuse simple and stress-free.
Getaway Studios Liège – Contemporary studios and apartments with kitchenettes, perfect for families who like extra space and flexibility. Central location means a short stroll to the Christmas village, while self-catering facilities help keep younger kids’ routines on track.
Van Der Valk Sélys Liège Hotel & Spa – Resort-style city hotel in a historic complex with pool and spa, ideal for families wanting comfort after the Christmas Market. Large rooms, on-site dining, and panoramic views over Liège create a special festive base.
Mid-range (€100 – €190 per night)
Appartement romantique de luxe à Liège Chambre, salon SDB privée 2e étage – Chic apartment with separate bedroom and living area, giving families more privacy than a standard hotel room. Located close to Liège centre, it offers an atmospheric base for visiting Le Village de Noël and riverside lights.
Appartement 2 chambres à Place Coronmeuse – Two-bedroom apartment near Coronmeuse, ideal for larger families needing extra beds and space. Easy access into central Liège and the Christmas Market makes it a budget-friendly choice for multi-night festive stays.
Le cocon de la belle liegeoise – Cosy apartment-style stay with warm décor, great for families wanting a homely feel in Liège. Convenient location allows quick trips to Le Village de Noël, then quiet evenings in after the market fun.
7. Hasselt Christmas Market – Winterland Hasselt
Hasselt’s Winterland has the atmosphere of a small Nordic-style village, glowing with soft lights and full of gentle winter activities. Located on Kolonel Dusartplein, the event brings together a skating rink, classic attractions and cosy corners that make it an inviting stop for families. The vintage carousel at the centre of the square is one of its highlights, turning slowly beneath strings of lights while music drifts through the air.
Santa’s House is another popular feature, offering a warm, festive setting where children can step inside for a photo or a short visit. Nearby, the covered ice rink stays busy throughout the day, with space for beginners as well as more confident skaters. The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, and the sheltered roof allows families to enjoy the rink regardless of the weather.
Around the square, food stalls serve Belgian favourites: warm pastries with cinnamon, crispy fries and hot chocolate or mulled wine. The mix of seasonal treats and winter aromas adds to the cosy feeling of the event. Winterland also includes small rides, light displays and themed areas that help create a soft, welcoming glow across the whole square.
More than anything, the setting feels communal and warm, with lights, music and simple winter activities creating a pleasant escape from the cold. It’s a compact, family-friendly event where children can explore freely and adults can enjoy a slower winter moment.
Don’t miss:
The covered ice rink
The mega slide
The Ferris wheel
Santa’s festive winter house
Why kids love it: Carousel rides, animated funhouse, circus school sheds for juggling and balancing, and festive lights.
Best time to visit: Afternoons and early evenings.
Location & Address
14 November 2025 – 4 January 2026
Kolonel Dusartplein, Hasselt, Belgium
Entrance Fee
Market: Free entrance; some activities and ice rink fees apply
More info:
Hasselt Christmas Market
Nearby Family Hotel Recommendations
Holiday Inn Hasselt by IHG – Family-friendly hotel in Hasselt centre, just a short walk from Winterland’s ice rink, rides, and food stalls. Indoor pool, kid-welcoming service, and comfortable family rooms make it perfect for a Christmas weekend break.
Holiday Inn Express Hasselt by IHG – Good-value option for families who want to stay close to Winterland without a high price tag. Included breakfast, practical rooms, and central location mean more time and budget for Christmas Market treats and activities.
8. Leuven Christmas Market – De Leuvense Kerstmarkt
Leuven’s Christmas market has a welcoming, community-like atmosphere that makes it an easy and pleasant place to explore. Across Ladeuzeplein and Hooverplein, rows of wooden chalets form small festive villages filled with handmade gifts, seasonal treats and the familiar scents of spiced pastries and warm chocolate. The market feels cosy rather than overwhelming, and the layout makes it simple for families to wander from one square to the next.
Santa’s Grotto is one of the most popular corners for children. Tucked into a warm, decorated space, it offers a gentle moment of winter excitement — a quiet pause where little visitors can meet Santa in a relaxed setting. Nearby, creative workshops invite children to paint, craft or make small ornaments, often taking a break to peer through frosted windows at the activity outside.
Carolers appear throughout the afternoon and early evening, gathering beneath lit streetlamps and adding soft harmonies to the market’s atmosphere. Combined with the glow of the chalets and the steady rhythm of bicycles passing through the university town, Leuven feels lively yet calm — a festive setting without the rush of larger Christmas cities.
As the evening settles in, the lights across both squares create a warm, inviting glow. Families tend to slow down here, enjoying a drink at a café, browsing for gingerbread or simply taking in the decorations and music. Leuven’s Christmas market is all about gentle moments, friendly encounters and a pace that suits families looking for a relaxed winter outing.
Don’t miss:
The central market squares with illuminated stalls and cosy cafés
Santa’s Grotto
Creative workshops and crafting stations for children
Why kids love it: Interactive light displays and the cozy, manageable size for families.
Best time to visit: Daylight into evening for a festive glow.
Location & Address
9 – 21 December 2025
Ladeuzeplein & Hooverplein
Entrance Fee
Market: Free entry
More info:
Leuven Christmas Market
Nearby Family Hotel Recommendations
M-Street art lodging – Self check-in – Contemporary art-inspired rooms in central Leuven, just a short walk from De Leuvense Kerstmarkt and the illuminated town hall. Families benefit from easy self check-in, nearby parking, and quick access to cosy winter terraces and stalls.
pentahotel Leuven – Trendy, playful hotel close to Leuven’s Old Market Square, ideal for families wanting to stroll straight to the Christmas Market. Spacious rooms, a games-friendly lounge, and hearty breakfasts make festive days out with kids simple and fun.
9. Ostend Christmas Market – Winter in the Park
Along Belgium’s North Sea coast, Ostend brings a unique twist to the winter season. In Leopoldpark, “Winter in the Park” transforms the lakeside into a softly lit winter setting where the sea breeze mixes with the scents of pine, warm waffles and roasted almonds. The combination of coastal air and festive lights gives the market a character you don’t often find inland.
One of the main attractions is the ice rink beside the water. With music playing in the background and lights reflecting on the lake, it’s a popular spot for families throughout the day. Children practice their steps while adults take careful laps or watch from the sidelines with a warm drink. Nearby, a small funfair adds an extra layer of activity, with a charming carousel and a few gentle rides that draw younger visitors.
The atmosphere across the park is lively but relaxed. People move between the stalls, trying local snacks or stopping for a classic portion of Ostend fries. Couples walk beneath the illuminated garlands, and groups of friends gather around small seating areas to warm up with hot chocolate or mulled drinks. The mix of community, seaside air and festive lights creates a welcoming winter scene that feels both seasonal and distinctly coastal.
As evening falls, the reflections of the holiday lights shimmer across the lake, giving the park a calm, almost cinematic appearance. It’s an easy place to linger, enjoying the combination of winter activities and the natural charm of the coast.
Don’t miss:
The winter atmosphere around Leopoldpark, with illuminated ponds and light displays
The lakeside ice rink
Funfair rides and the traditional carousel
Why kids love it: Fairytale setting with gentle rides and interactive light shows.
Best time to visit: Early evening for twinkling park lights and fewer crowds.
Location & Address
28 November 2025 – 4 January 2026
Leopoldpark & Wapenplein
Entrance Fee
Market: Free entry
Activity: Extra Fee
More info:
Ostend Christmas Market
Nearby Family Hotel Recommendations
High Budget (€200 – €700+ per night)
Hotel Du Parc – Historic hotel in the heart of Ostend, just moments from Winter in the Park and the beachfront promenade. Its family rooms and classic brasserie vibe make a cosy base between market rides, ice skating, and seaside walks
C-Hotels Andromeda – Seafront hotel with pool and wellness area, perfect for families mixing Ostend’s beach with Christmas Market magic. Direct access to the promenade and roomy family options make it easy to juggle prams, snacks, and winter activities.
SQUARE50 boutique suite – Stylish boutique suite with separate sleeping and living zones, giving families extra space near Winter in the Park. Close to the park and sea, it’s ideal for combining market fun with quiet evenings in.
Mid-range (€100 – €190 per night)
Upstairs Hotel – Trendy, budget-friendly hotel a short walk from Ostend’s Winter in the Park, beach, and shopping streets. Family rooms, playful décor, and a casual vibe suit parents travelling with teens or younger kids.
Geniet van de zee met dit top-appartement Fuji Ostend – Modern apartment with sea views where families can enjoy their own kitchen and lounge. Easy access to the beach and a short trip to Winter in the Park make it a relaxed base for multi-night festive stays.
Penthouse Mathilde – Spacious penthouse with terrace and panoramic views, ideal for larger families wanting extra bedrooms. Close to central Ostend, it offers a comfortable home-style stay after evenings at the Christmas Market and on the seafront.
Low Budget (€30 – €100 per night)
Appartement met zonnig terras – Affordable apartment with a sunny terrace, great for families seeking space on a budget near Ostend’s attractions. Self-catering facilities help keep costs down while still being a short ride from Winter in the Park
Studio Hippique – Compact studio offering a wallet-friendly base for couples with a young child visiting Ostend. Simple, practical comfort and good tram links make reaching the Christmas Market and beach straightforward.
Studio MANI – Bright studio apartment ideal for small families who plan to spend most of the day out at Winter in the Park. A handy kitchenette and easy access to the city centre keep festive breaks flexible and low-cost.
10. Durbuy Christmas Market
Exploring Durbuy’s stone-paved streets on a crisp December evening feels a bit like walking through a small storybook town. Often called the world’s smallest city, Durbuy takes on an even more charming character during the Christmas season. Twinkling lights stretch across narrow alleys, wooden stalls line the old streets and the scent of speculaas, warm truffles and artisan sausages fills the air. The compact layout makes it an inviting market for families, with plenty of small corners to discover.
The chalets are thoughtfully decorated and offer a mix of regional crafts, handmade wooden toys, festive ornaments and local treats. A vintage-style carousel adds a nostalgic touch, turning slowly beneath strings of lights and drawing younger children in for a gentle ride. Street performers appear throughout the market — jugglers, musicians and actors in costume — bringing short bursts of entertainment that gather small crowds before they drift on to the next part of town.
As evening settles in, Durbuy glows warmly. Music plays across the squares, lights reflect softly on the stone façades and firepits provide cosy spots to warm up between walks. The medieval surroundings add to the atmosphere, blending history with the easy, festive rhythm of the market. For many families, it’s a place to slow down and enjoy simple winter moments in a setting that feels both intimate and picturesque.
Don’t miss:
The charming Christmas market set in Belgium’s smallest city
Artisans selling regional crafts and festive treats
The vintage carousel and special children’s entertainment sessions
Why kids love it: Intimate and magical setting with storytelling and craft workshops.
Best time to visit: Late afternoons as the lights come alive.
Location & Address
21 November 2025 – 4 January 2026
Parc Roi Baudouin, Allée verte & site Anticlinaal
Entrance Fee
Market: Free entry
More info:
Durbuy Christmas Market
Nearby Family Hotel Recommendations
High Budget (€200 – €700+ per night)
Residence des Recollets Apartments – Characterful apartments in the heart of medieval Durbuy, placing families steps from the Christmas Market and river. Separate bedrooms and living areas give plenty of space to unwind after exploring the cobbled streets and lights.
Hotel Sanglier – Luxury riverside hotel with spa and gourmet dining, perfect for families wanting a high-end Ardennes Christmas escape. Central location means you can pop in and out of the Durbuy Christmas Market with kids throughout the day.
duRuby – Chambre & Suite – Chic guesthouse with stylish rooms and suites, ideal for couples or small families seeking a boutique feel near the market. Warm interiors and a central setting create a romantic yet family-friendly festive base.
Mid-range (€100 – €190 per night)
Hotel La Caleche – Cosy hotel on Durbuy’s main square, just a few steps from the Christmas Market chalets and restaurants. Family rooms and on-site brasserie dining make it easy to settle in without needing to drive.
Hotel des Comtes Durbuy – Charming hotel in a former mansion overlooking Durbuy, offering a peaceful setting close to the festive centre. Families appreciate the comfortable rooms, generous breakfasts, and quick walk down to the Christmas lights.
Le Temps d'un Rêve – Intimate guesthouse-style stay surrounded by Ardennes greenery, a short drive or stroll from Durbuy’s Christmas Market. Warm hosts, cosy rooms, and a tranquil atmosphere suit families wanting quieter evenings after market fun.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Belgian Christmas markets suitable for young children and families?
Absolutely! Most Christmas markets in Belgium offer a safe, walkable environment and plenty of activities designed with families and young children in mind—think funfair rides, carousels, creative workshops, puppet shows, and Santa’s house. Children love the festive lights, delicious treats, and hands-on experiences available at each market.
Which are the most kid-friendly Christmas markets in Belgium?
Markets in Brussels (Winterpret), Ghent (Gentse Winterfeesten), Bruges (Winter Glow), Ciney (Les Féeries du Parc), and Leuven are especially praised for their family atmosphere, variety of children’s activities, and magical settings tailored for parents traveling with kids.
When do the Christmas markets in Belgium usually open?
Dates vary, but most markets run from late November or early December through the end of December or early January. For example, Brussels’ Winterpret often starts at the end of November and runs into the first week of January, while others may finish just before Christmas or New Year’s Eve.
Do you need to buy tickets to visit the Christmas markets?
Entry to the markets themselves is free. However, attractions like ice skating rinks, Ferris wheels, funfair rides, or concerts usually require a ticket or a small fee. It’s easy to enjoy the atmosphere without spending much, but some special activities are paid.
What kind of food and drinks are there for kids and families?
Markets abound with Belgian waffles, hot chocolate, fries, pastries, gingerbread, sausages, and sweet treats. For drinks, you’ll find everything from spiced apple juice and hot chocolate to mulled wine, the latter suitable for adults while kids revel in the sweeter options.
Are there bathrooms and baby facilities at the markets?
Most main markets offer public toilets and baby-changing areas in clearly marked zones. Some markets, especially in city centers, also provide family-friendly facilities nearby or inside restaurants and cafes.
Which market is best for combining with other family activities or city sightseeing?
Brussels, Bruges, Antwerp, and Ghent all offer extensive city attractions within walking distance of their main markets, from museums and playgrounds to iconic cathedrals. It’s easy to plan a full day or weekend combining Christmas market fun with cultural sights.
Are Belgian Christmas markets stroller-friendly?
Yes, Belgium’s markets are generally accessible and stroller-friendly. While weekends can be more crowded, most squares have wide paths and helpful staff if assistance is needed.
Is parking available at major Belgian Christmas markets?
Most cities have several paid parking garages close to the city center and Christmas markets. Market websites often provide detailed parking info and tips for weekend or evening visits. In popular areas like Brussels, public transit can be easier during peak times.
What is the best time to visit with kids?
Locals recommend weekday afternoons or evenings, as weekends can be much busier. Evening visits bring the most spectacular lights, while afternoons offer easier access to rides, snacks, and less crowded workshops.
Final Thoughts
Visiting Belgium’s Christmas markets with children is all about simple winter moments — sparkling lights, small discoveries and the excitement that comes from exploring together. With ice rinks, Santa visits, gentle rides and illuminated trails, these markets offer plenty of ways for families to enjoy the season at a relaxed pace.
If you’re planning a festive trip, we hope this guide helps you find the places that fit your family best. There’s something special about experiencing the holidays through a child’s sense of wonder, and Belgium’s Christmas towns make it easy to enjoy those shared winter days. Bundle up, bring the mittens and let these cosy markets add their own touch of magic to your winter plans.
Are you planning to explore even more Christmas wonderlands with your kids? Don’t miss our insider guides to Germany’s legendary child-friendly Christmas markets, The Best Child-Friendly Christmas Markets in France or discover the best family-friendly markets across the Netherlands. From sparkling cities to charming villages, your next holiday adventure is just a click away, happy travels and merry Christmas!