Christmas in antwerp
Christmas in antwerp
Discover Antwerp’s Enchanting Winter Market
Antwerp is renowned for hosting one of Belgium’s most vibrant Christmas markets. The 2025 Winter Market runs from Friday December 5th, 2025, to Sunday January 5th, 2026. Spread across seven magical locations, you’ll experience the festive charm of the city centre like never before.
From the iconic Grote Markt and bustling Groenplaats to the enchanting Suikerrui light tunnel and the cozy Handschoenmarkt, each spot offers something unique. Warm yourself with delicious seasonal treats, browse beautifully decorated chalets, and glide across the ice rink. Don’t miss special attractions like the historic carousel on Operaplein and the captivating fountain show at Hendrik Conscienceplein. Near the central station, Koningin Astridplein serves as a welcoming gateway to the festive stroll. Together, these locations form a magical winter promenade across Antwerp’s city centre.
Christmas Market Opening Hours
The Christmas market chalets and ice rink in Antwerp typically open daily from 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM on Sundays through Thursdays, with extended hours until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays. Some key locations like Operaplein and the winter bars may have slightly different schedules, especially on holidays such as Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve.
To ensure you have the most accurate and up-to-date information, please check the official opening hours below.
Read Our Winterblogs
Warm Up at The Winter Bars
When you need a break from the cold, Antwerp’s winter bars offer cozy spots to enjoy festive drinks and local treats. Popular venues include Winterbar Den Après at Groenplaats, Winterbar Steenplein, and Winterbar Your Divine Xmas at Hendrik Conscienceplein. Each offers its own unique atmosphere and special seasonal menus.
Sinterklaas in Antwerp!
On Saturday 15 November 2025, Sinterklaas will arrive in Antwerp at approximately 14:00 at the pontoon on the Steenplein, where he will be warmly welcomed by mayor Els Van Doesburg and entertainer Bart Peeters. He will then walk to Het Steen and proceed in procession via the Ernest Van Dijckkaai and the Suikerrui to the Grote Markt, arriving at the city hall around 14:45, from where he will address children from the balcony at the “Schoon Verdiep”. In addition, the event will include a live broadcast by VRT (VRT1, Ketnet and VRT MAX) from 13:30 – 15:10, and an animation programme from 13:00 on the Grote Markt featuring Sarah, Bavo & Zola and De KetnetBand, making it a celebration for all children with wheelchair‑accessible areas, sign‑language interpreters, and hearing aid streaming
Save 15% on Your Winter Getaway
Experience the festive magic just steps from your doorstep at PREMIER SUITES Antwerp. Make your visit to the Christmas market in Antwerp even more special by taking advantage of our exclusive winter offer: 15% off your next 2-night stay.
After a day filled with shopping and holiday cheer, unwind in the comfort of our stylish suites and soak in the cosy warmth of the season.
Don’t wait, book your winter getaway today and create unforgettable memories in the heart of Antwerp!
Winter activities in antwerp
From grandkids, to grandparents and everyone in between. Antwerp has something to offer for everyone!
De big sinterklaas show in sportpaleis antwerpen
Get ready for a magical celebration at the Sinterklaas Show starting from 29th of November at the AFAS Dome in Antwerp!
Experience the enchanting festivities as Sinterklaas and his helpers, K3, Bumba, Mega Mindy and many others bring joy to children and families with captivating performances, music, and surprises.
Plopsa station Antwerp
Plopsa Station, the enchanting indoor theme park full of fun for the entire family, will be closing its doors in early 2026. Don’t miss this last chance to treat your kids to a magical experience filled with festive Christmas decorations, beloved character encounters with Bumba, thrilling attractions, and a cozy winter atmosphere! From December 20th to 31st, children can also meet Santa Claus, take memorable photos, and share their holiday wishes with him. It’s the perfect place to add an extra sparkle of adventure to your holiday season in Antwerp!
Antwerp Zoo
Discover the wonders of the Zoo van Antwerpen. Just a 5-minute stroll away from PREMIER SUITES Antwerp, it’s the perfect activity during the Christmas holidays.
Wander through the Zoo’s lush gardens, admire the beautiful enclosures, and engage with fascinating exhibits. Make unforgettable memories as you explore the Zoo van Antwerpen, where adventure and nature come together in a magical winter setting!
