First snow hits Mechelen & Lier, residents take outdoor walks

Mechelen (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Lier and Mechelen saw light snow this morning, Jan 3, 2025. Residents, including Mark, Lydia, Ann, Philippe, and Stef, enjoyed walks in parks and along the Zenne River despite the cold.

As VRT News reported, Lier and Mechelen were covered in a thin layer of snow this morning, Jan 3, 2026. They mentioned that in Mechelen’s Vrijbroekpark, walkers came out despite the cold to enjoy the first snow of the season

What brought Lier and Mechelen residents outdoors during 1st snow of 2026?

In Muizen, Mark went for a morning stroll with his daughter.

“Due to circumstances, we haven’t been able to see each other for a while,”

Mark says.

“So walking together is the perfect way to catch up.” 

Daughter Emma is also enjoying the moment.

“I think it would be nice to have a warm drink later. Especially if the sun comes out. Staying indoors all the time isn’t healthy,”

Emma says.

Lydia also took a walk in the snow.

“We deliberately go outside for some fresh, healthy air. I love being in nature. It’s incredibly beautiful here in the winter, but we don’t dare go on the ice,”

Lydia laughs. 

In Lier, Ann and Philippe brought their dog to the city park.Along the Zenne River in Lest, the dikes were turning white, and resident Stef walked across the Zenne Bridge.

“We go to the market every Saturday. It’s nice to do that in the snow for once,”

said Ann.

“We have the impression that many people stayed home. There were also fewer market stalls than usual, but it’s nice that everything looks a bit different,”

Philippe said. 

“I try to walk 5 to 6 kilometres every day,”

Philippe says.

“That’s necessary to get back in shape after the holidays,”

he laughs.

“The snow doesn’t stop me, as long as it’s not too slippery. Then I choose safer routes or stay home. Today it’s not too bad.”

Earlier in 2026, light snowfall was reported in several Belgian cities, including Leuven, Ghent, and Hasselt. Streets, parks, and public areas were covered in a thin layer of snow, prompting residents to go outside for walks and winter activities.