Plaisirs d'Hiver - Grand-Place

The Grand-Place location of Brussels' Winter Wonders (Plaisirs d'Hiver) transforms the UNESCO World Heritage Site into a breathtaking Christmas wonderland. This iconic square, framed by 15th-century Gothic architecture and ornate guild houses adorned with gold-leaf details, serves as the centerpiece of Brussels' festive celebrations. The magnificent Christmas tree stands proudly in the square, while a spectacular 360° sound and light show illuminates the historic facades from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. daily (10:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays), creating an unforgettable visual experience. Visitors can explore festive chalets offering Belgian specialties, admire the traditional nativity scene, and enjoy performances by traveling choirs and street performers. The Grand-Place location connects to a 2.5 km trail of twinkling lights that winds through Brussels' city center, linking over 200 chalets across multiple squares including Place de la Monnaie, Bourse, Sainte-Catherine, and Place de Brouckère. The surrounding streets feature renowned Belgian chocolate shops displaying festive creations in beautifully designed boxes. Open daily from noon to 10 p.m. (6 p.m. on December 24, 31, and January 4), this magical setting combines historic grandeur with authentic Christmas market charm. Arrive before 5 p.m. to secure a good viewing spot for the mesmerizing sound and light show.