Christmas Activities in Ghent
Christmas Activities in Ghent
Christmas in Ghent
Discover the enchanting city of Ghent wrapped in true winter atmospheres; Experience the festive Christmas market, winter Christmas walk in the evening with beautifully lit streets, or visit one of the many Ghent museums to escape the cold.
Christmas Market in the Heart of Ghent
Christmas Activities in Ghent
Experience the magic of Christmas in Ghent at the atmospheric Christmas market in the historic city center. Stroll between the pines and Christmas trees along more than 150 wooden stalls with winter treats, warm drinks, and fun gifts. The Ghent Christmas market is the ideal place to get into the Christmas spirit.
The Christmas market takes place from December 3, 2026, to January 3, 2027.
Year-end Shopping
Christmas Activities in Ghent
Combine the cozy Christmas atmosphere with Christmas shopping in Ghent. From December 1, 2026, to January 3, 2027 the shops in Ghent are open every Sunday. Ideal for doing your year-end shopping, finding original Christmas gifts, and enjoying the festive atmosphere in the city.
Ghent Winter Festivities
Christmas Activities in Ghent
During the Ghent Winter Festivities, the center of Ghent transforms into an enchanting winter destination full of lights, Christmas decorations, and cozy activities. From the Christmas market and Ferris wheel to winter treats and atmospheric spots in the city: there is a lot to experience during this period.
Discover everything about the Ghent Winter Festivities and plan your visit during the Christmas period.
Winter Exhibitions
Christmas Activities in Ghent
Even on cold winter days, there is plenty to discover in Ghent. Warm up in one of the many museums in Ghent and be surprised by art, culture, and special exhibitions. An ideal activity during a winter day or Christmas holiday in Ghent.
Ice Skating Rink
Christmas Activities in Ghent
From December 3, 2026, to January 3, 2027 you can skate in the heart of Ghent. The Emile Braunplein is transformed into an atmospheric skating rink with a beautiful historic backdrop. A cozy winter activity during Christmas in Ghent.
Winter Wonder Castle
Christmas Activities in Ghent
From December 4, 2026, to January 3, 2027 the Gravensteen in Ghent becomes a magical winter wonder castle. Discover the atmospherically decorated castle with the whole family, follow the special tour, and let the children search for the missing jester. A fun family activity during Christmas in Ghent.
Atmospheric Year-End Lighting
Christmas Activities in Ghent
From November 27, 2026, to January 10, 2027 Ghent shines even more thanks to extra Christmas lighting on top of the famous Ghent Light Plan. Stroll through the atmospherically lit streets in the evening and discover the historic city center in a special winter setting. Ideal for a cozy winter walk in Ghent.
Discover the Christmas Diorama
Christmas Activities in Ghent
During the Christmas period, visit the Christmas diorama in St. Bavo's Cathedral. Children will discover a special miniature landscape with villages, mountains, flowing water, and spinning mills where sixteen Biblical scenes come to life. A fun activity for the whole family during Christmas in Ghent. The dates for 2026 are not yet known.
Experience an Unforgettable Christmas
Do you want to make your visit to the Ghent Christmas activities extra special? Stay at Van der Valk Hotel Ghent and enjoy a relaxing Christmas weekend or winter vacation in the city. After a day filled with atmospheric lights, cozy markets, and winter coziness, you can completely unwind in one of our comfortable rooms.
Ghent also offers plenty of fun activities for children during the Christmas holidays, making a stay with us perfect for the whole family.