The countdown to Christmas has begun: offices have cleared out, and everybody is in holiday mode. In the mood for more Christmassy events and activities to chase the blues away? The Brussels Times has got you covered!
Alternative Christmas markets
Heartmade Market, Galerie Ravenstein, until Sunday 22 December
The Heartmade Market is returning this weekend with a 100% artisan Christmas Market, just in time for last-minute shoppers to find unique presents for their loved ones.
Galerie Ravenstein. Credit: Belga
Discover a selection of products from around 45 local designers and creators. From fashion to decorative items and artisanal treats, there is something for everyone. Entry is free.
Find more information here.
Femimain Christmas Market, GC De Pianofabriek, Friday 20 December
Don't miss the final edition of the Femimain Christmas market at Pianofabriek in Saint-Gilles – another great opportunity to find presents for friends and family.
Credit: Femimain
Just like last year, visitors will be able to find the beautiful Iranian craftwork of Golobolbol, as well as products from 'Disarming Design from Palestine'.
Find more information here.
Potiche Christmas Market, Potiche, until Sunday 29 December
In front of Potiche's cabaret-bar in Brussels' city centre, the team are laying on a festive feast of mulled wine, delicious hot chocolate, cookies and traditional flavoured peket shots.
Head over from 16:00 on Thursday, Friday, Saturday or Sunday to get into the Christmas spirit and soak up the festive atmosphere.
Find more information here.
Christmas choirs
Advenire with the Komorebi Consort, Notre Dame des Victoires Church in Sablon, Sunday 22 December
The Brussels-based early music Komorebi Consort is putting on a veritable musical feast this Sunday.
From 'Machet die Thore weit' – a poignant cantata by Christoph Graupner – to Bach's 'Fifth Brandenburg Concerto' and 'Ärgre dich, o Seele nicht', the ensemble will offer a refreshing oasis of calm in the midst of the busy holiday season. Reservation and a minimum contribution of €12 is recommended.
Find more information here.
Christ-Mass, Flagey, Saturday 21 December
Carols sung by the angelic Flemish Radio Choir are sure to get you in the mood for Christmas. British composer James Whitbourn's Son of God Mass combines heavenly voice work with the warm woodwind sound of the soprano saxophone and is sure to brighten another grey and gloomy weekend.
Credit: Flemish Radio Choir / Wouter Van Vaerenbergh
With Bart Van Reyn conducting, expect classics such as Carol of the Bells, The First Nowell, Mary's Lullaby (Silent Night) and more.
Find more information here.
Out and about
Fête des Lumières, Parc Brugmann in Uccle, Saturday 21 December
Take a magical nighttime stroll through Uccle's Parc Brugmann, which will be lit up for the occasion. The walk will begin at the park's entrance, on the Avenue Messidor side, and will take you through the park and along the Sukkelweg and finish at the Ferme Rose.
Hot chocolate and a range of workshops and activities will be on offer. Children can also enjoy a treasure hunt and meet illuminated characters along the way. Entry is free and no reservation is required.
Find more information here.
