Plaisirs d'Hiver - Place Sainte-Catherine

The Place Sainte-Catherine location of Brussels' Winter Wonders Christmas market offers one of the most vibrant and family-friendly festive experiences in the Belgian capital. This historic square, located in the heart of Brussels' city center, transforms into a bustling winter wonderland featuring the highest concentration of chalets among all Winter Wonders locations. Visitors can explore numerous festive stalls offering both savory and sweet Belgian specialties, from traditional waffles topped with Belgian chocolate to warming mulled wine. The square comes alive with entertainment including a spectacular Ferris wheel and traditional merry-go-rounds that delight children and adults alike. The atmosphere is enhanced by twinkling lights that connect this location to other market areas via a meandering 2.5-kilometer illuminated trail through Brussels' most captivating sights. The adjacent Vismet (Fish Market) area extends the festive offerings with additional chalets and attractions. Open daily from noon to 10 PM throughout the season, Place Sainte-Catherine provides covered communal terraces where visitors can rest and enjoy their purchases in a protected, welcoming environment. The market emphasizes sustainability with reusable dishware initiatives and features artisan vendors displaying a quality label. For the best experience, arrive in the late afternoon to enjoy the magical ambiance as the lights illuminate the square and the festive energy reaches its peak.