kerstmARTa

kerstmARTa is Mechelen's dedicated Christmas art market, nestled at the foot of the iconic Sint-Romboutskathedraal at Onder-Den-Toren, setting it apart from the city's traditional holiday stalls. Housed in a cozy heated tent, this creative market brings together local makers and artists in an intimate, gallery-like atmosphere that feels refreshingly different from a standard Christmas market. The market runs every weekend from late November through December 23rd, with Friday evenings, Saturdays, Sundays, and select extra weekday dates offering flexible visiting options. kerstmARTa is the winter edition of the popular MontmARTa summer art market, organized under the mARTa creative platform — Mechelen's emerging hub for local arts and culture. Each weekend, a rotating roster of approximately ten new artists joins the lineup, meaning the selection of work evolves throughout the season and repeat visits are genuinely rewarding. Shoppers will find a curated mix of original illustrations, handmade gifts, unique artworks, and one-of-a-kind creations that simply cannot be found in mainstream stores. With around forty artists and craftspeople participating across the season, the market is an ideal destination for anyone seeking a truly personal and meaningful Christmas gift. The heated tent ensures a warm, welcoming environment even on cold Belgian winter evenings, and the backdrop of the cathedral's towering Gothic spire adds an undeniably magical atmosphere. kerstmARTa sits alongside the broader Mechelen Christmas market, so visitors can easily combine a browse through the art tent with a stroll past the wooden chalets and festive stalls spread across Onder-Den-Toren and nearby squares.