Brussels Gears Up for Two Weeks of Festive and Cultural Delights
With just two weeks left until Christmas Day, Brussels is stepping into full festive mode, offering residents and visitors a rich variety of seasonal celebrations and cultural experiences.
From carol concerts and bustling craft markets to experimental performances and stand-up comedy, the city’s December calendar is brimming with activities for all tastes.
Festive Concerts Bring Seasonal Cheer
Music lovers can kick off the celebrations on Saturday 13 December with the annual Brussels Carol Concert at Église Saint Marc in Uccle. Starting at 5pm, the event promises a heartwarming programme of traditional and contemporary carols under the baton of Belgian-Chilean conductor David Navarro-Turres.
Mezzo-soprano Amalia Avilán will take the solo spotlight, while actor Richard Wells hosts the evening. Proceeds will support the Foetal Medicine Foundation Belgium and neonatal specialist Professor Jacques Jani’s work at Brugmann Children’s Hospital.
Later that evening, audiences can head to Etterbeek, where the Brussels Chamber Choir presents “Christmas with Benjamin Britten” at Église Notre-Dame du Sacré-Cœur. Beginning at 7pm, the performance features Britten’s beloved “Ceremony of Carols” and “Rejoice in the Lamb”, with ticket prices ranging from €17 to €50.
Markets and Makers Celebrate Local Creativity
Every weekend in December, the Brussels Makers Market at Gare Maritime offers a warm, indoor alternative to traditional Christmas markets. Showcasing more than 200 artisans throughout the month, the market features rotating creators selling handmade jewellery, fashion, decor and one-of-a-kind gifts.
It’s an ideal spot to find unique presents while supporting local businesses.
Culture Beyond Christmas
Those seeking something different can explore the city’s vibrant cultural scene. At Les Brigittines, “Live in Brigittines” continues until 13 December, offering an evening of dance, music and visual experimentation from artists Vincent Glowinski, Florian Guibert, Mercedes Dassy and GEM&I.
La Loge hosts “Listening Other·Wise” on 12 and 13 December, a 24-hour programme inviting visitors to reconsider the politics of listening through performance, readings, audio streams and DJ sets.
Comedy fans can enjoy some mid-December laughter at The Commons Hub, where Side Splitters Comedy Club presents “Top Shelf Comedy”. Featuring Yannick Joos, Carlos Montoya and international supporting acts, the show highlights Brussels’ growing English-language comedy scene.
At Esac, “Nafas – un souffle” runs until 14 December, presenting a circus-theatre exploration of the concept of breath and the inner self, directed by Élodie Doñaque with music by Simon Thierrée.
Meanwhile, Théâtre de Poche celebrates Belgian identity with “Belgian Cabareteke”, an affectionate, humorous tribute to fries, surrealism, folklore and national quirks. The show runs until 20 December.
Midweek Fun
Those looking to test their knowledge can join the Full Circle Christmas Pub Quiz on Tuesday 16 December. Organised with The Brussels Times, the quiz promises a lively evening of trivia, drinks and socialising, with teams capped at five players.
With festive warmth and cultural variety, Brussels is set for an engaging and spirited countdown to Christmas.