As the year’s end draws near, the Christmas markets blossom in many cities and towns in Belgium. The festivities really begin with St. Nicholas on December 6th. Shops display holiday treats such as marzipan, flat hard cakes known as ‘klaasjes’ and ‘speculoos’, a hard gingerbread molded in the form of St. Nicholas.

In all major cities, shopping will be possible on the four Sundays preceding the holiday. The local Tourist Offices can provide visitors with details on the numerous nativity scenes on display, Christmas markets, concerts and other seasonal events.

Brussels will hold its annual European Christmas market on the Place St. Catherine, from December 3, 2004 through January 2, 2005 (Monday-Friday: 11h00 - 20h00 & Saturday-Sunday: 11h00 - 22h00)

An array of products will be available in a warm and friendly atmosphere. This market with its cheerful lights, delicious aromas and a vast number of stalls promises a true holiday atmosphere. In addition to the Christmas Market the ice-skating ring offers fun for all. This year for the first time a separate small skating ring invites toddlers to enjoy this wonderful winter sport too. And the holiday atmosphere would not be complete without a visit to the Grand’Place decorated in festive lights for the occasion. For more information: www.plaisirsdhiver.be

In the city of Liege, 155 decorated wooden cottages form a magical Christmas Village throughout the month of December. For opening hours and details call 011-324/254 9797. During the month of December, the Eastern part of the country offers an ideal place to spend a few hours. Don’t miss the opportunity to attend a Christmas concert given by regional choirs and musical societies during the period of Advent, when the Christmas lights appear! For information please contact the Tourism Office of the East Cantons at Tel: 0113280/22 76 64 Fax: 0113280/22 65 39.
For more events and information, please visit http://www.visitbelgium.com/