From 28 November 2025 to 1st January 2026, Winter Wonders will celebrate its 24th edition. A quarter of a century of light, conviviality and charm for Brussels, combining heritage, local economy and shared ambience.
When the first chalets are set up around the Bourse and the fairy lights are lit on the Grand-Place, we know that winter is back in Brussels. Year after year, the event has established itself as a highlight of the capital, both locally and internationally. From 28 November 2025 to 1st January 2026, the city will celebrate the 25th anniversary of its winter event.
Behind the aroma of mulled wine and the sound of skates gliding across the Place De Brouckère, a whole ecosystem is coming to life. ‘Winter Wonders is an event that the people of Brussels have made their own, while remaining a driving force for the city's appeal,’ says Adélaïde de Patoul, spokesperson for Brussels Major Events, the non-profit organisation that runs the event.
A festive and sustainable route
The route stretches from the historic centre to Place Sainte-Catherine, passing through De Brouckère and the Bourse. Christmas tree, nativity scene, ice rink, Ferris wheel, artisans, shows... all the essentials will be there, joined this year by an artistic work at the Town Hall. Thanks to the “Brussels by Lights” programme, 171 shopping streets will also be lit up.
The event also extends to the neighbourhoods, with “Winter Pop”, mini travelling festivals that will stop off in the Marolles, Ambiorix and Laeken. It's a way of spreading the magic of Christmas while supporting neighbourhood life.
For several years now, sustainability has been at the heart of the initiative. Last year, 650,000 reusable cups and 50,000 reusable plates saved 2.5 tonnes of CO₂. More than a tonne of surplus food was redistributed, representing some 2,360 meals. Dry toilets saved 200,000 litres of water, and the wood from the Christmas tree was turned into furniture and trophies.
Winter in Brussels, an economic driver
Behind the fairy lights and wooden huts lies a considerable economic impact. The 2024-2025 edition attracted more than 4.2 million visitors, including 1.6 million international tourists, mainly from France, Spain and Italy, representing a 15% increase on previous years. According to Brussels Major Events, this attendance generated nearly €260 million in revenue for the Brussels Region, including catering, hotels, retail, transport and leisure.
The vitality of the event also benefited local businesses: Rue Neuve broke attendance records and hotels in the city centre posted occupancy rates of over 80% in December. ‘It's a whole ecosystem that lives to the rhythm of the Wonders: restaurants, artisans, shops, guides, hotels...’, emphasises Adélaïde de Patoul. The organisers strive to strike a balance between attractiveness and quality of life: ‘The aim is not to keep getting bigger, but to preserve a smooth, enjoyable experience that respects the city,’ explains the spokesperson. The approach is measured, far from the race to outdo each other.
Businesses join the festivities
Winter Wonders appeal not only to families and tourists, but also to the business world. Every year, Brussels Major Events develops a comprehensive B2B offering: team building (sometimes on ice), corporate dinners, networking events and tailor-made entertainment. Beci will also be enjoying the experience in December.
Between the champagne bubbles, the mountain chalet, beer tastings, the Tootbus Christmas Tour and the curling rinks available for private hire at Place De Brouckère, there is no shortage of options. These initiatives allow companies to associate their image with a festive and friendly setting, while participating in the local dynamic. ‘Companies find a rewarding setting here that reflects the spirit of Brussels: accessible, warm and unifying,’ explains Adélaïde de Patoul.
A quarter of a century of Brussels spirit
Twenty-five years after its modest beginnings, Winter Wonders has become a key event in the city's calendar. Covered by media outlets such as CNN and the Washington Post, the event contributes to the capital's international reputation.
Beyond the figures and the economic benefits, it is above all the atmosphere that Brussels residents remember: that of a city that knows how to get together. Winter Wonders is a bit like a living greeting card for Brussels. Will you be there? Because we certainly will!