Bruges-Christmas-Market
Bruges is a truly beautiful Belgian city, so lovely in fact that just wandering around the old cobbled streets, dining in one of the many delightful restaurants, enjoying a drink in an old traditional bar or shopping for chocolates would be more than enough.
So, when other events are taking place you really must get along to see beautiful Bruges. It’s only a short drive from the car ferry terminal in Calais and if you book one of the cheap ferries to France the savings on wine and other bargains will more than pay for the ticket.
Here are a few things to look out for:
Magical Winter Moments Christmas Happening
This stylish, festive event starts on the 22nd November and runs until the 1st December. You’ll find the latest trends in home and floral decoration in the heart of Bruges as master florists and decorators display their brilliant Christmas floral arrangements. Be inspired with new floral ideas and maybe by some unique Christmas gifts for friends and family.
Bruges Christmas Market
During December the Bruges’ Christmas market is a unique shopping experience. Apart from being one of the most beautiful settings brought to life by Christmas decorations, twinkling lights and seasonal aromas, there are traditional horse and carts clattering over the cobbled streets and around the historic buildings. But more than this there are stalls selling a whole array of gifts and goodies.
Ice Skating Rink
As part of the Christmas festivities Bruges’s market square is transformed into a winter wonderland with its very own ice rink. It’s great fun for those who’ve never even skated before and of course there are plenty of opportunities to purchase a heart-warming mulled wine or hot chocolate.
Magical-Winter-Moments-Christmas-Happening
Ice Sculpture Festival
The Ice Sculpture Festival runs from the 22nd November to the 5th January, an annual event that’s held at the railway station, so is particularly easy to find! It’s a totally unique European event and definitely recommended – 300,000 kilos of ice and 400 tons of snow is crafted by professional ice sculptors to form their beautiful ice creations. If you fancy a drink try the ice bar or warm up in the tent of mirrors. So what are you waiting for get your skates on and book a cross channel ferry on one of the France ferries to Calais.
December Dance
This is an international dance festival that’s fairly new to Bruges so join this year’s choreographer for live dance spectaculars.
Enjoy a Christmas trip to Bruges and be transported back in time. If you’re there during one of these events there will be something unique to see and do, but remember Bruges has much to offer visitors as a city in its own right so ensure you take in the splendour of the Burg main square with its market stalls and lace shops and visit the 13th century Belfry – 370 steps and 47 bells, apart from a tremendous view over the city.
And of course the Groeninge museum is one of the best in Europe with works of art from many fine Flemish artists such as Jan van Eyck and Provost.
