Antwerp (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Antwerp Mayor Els van Doesburg opened Winter in Antwerp with moving winter scenes at Handschoenmarkt, ice rink, Bar Bravo, Meatdistrict, jazz, carousel, and charity stalls until December 7, 2025.
As GVA News reported, Antwerp Mayor Els van Doesburg (N-VA) and several colleagues opened a new animated winter scene at Handschoenmarkt. The event marked the start of the “Winter in Antwerp” Christmas celebrations. They mentioned that as the sun set behind the Scheldt, the cold winter air spread across the city. One by one, the Christmas lights turned on, brightening the streets and squares.
On Steenplein, visitors gathered around the Ferris wheel. Children enjoyed the fairground attractions. This year, Bar Bravo opened on the square. It offers a wide selection of beers, finger foods, and live music.
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The festive atmosphere continued along Suikerrui, where the Meatdistrict attracted visitors with the smell of smashed burgers. The food stalls were redesigned with a modern look this year. Vegetarian and alcohol-free options were available at all stalls.
On the Grote Markt, the Rebel Smoker served slow-cooked pulled pork and Black Angus burgers. At Groenplaats, Orbit Fried Chicken offered comfort food next to the indoor ice rink. The rink surrounds the statue of Rubens and remains one of the main attractions. Skaters glided cautiously on the ice while onlookers took photos or warmed themselves at the winter bar Den Apres.
Officials mentioned that visitors seeking a quieter experience can visit Hendrik Conscienceplein. The square is decorated in a Baroque-inspired style. Chef Sepideh Sedaghatnia from Your Divine Xmas serves gourmet dishes made with local ingredients.
They said that live jazz performances add a calm and intimate atmosphere, away from the crowds at the Grote Markt. Families with children can enjoy a nostalgic carousel at Opera Square. This year, part of the square is covered, so the carousel can be used in the rain or the wind. New 2.5-meter-high viewing columns show moving winter scenes.
At Handschoenmarkt, the social aspect is strong. All stalls are run by charities and startups. The interactive Christmas ball tells short stories. During the opening weekend from Dec 5, 2025, to Dec 7, 2025, several events will take place.
Berre will perform on the Grote Markt. DJ sets will be held on Groenplaats. Acrobatics will take place on Operaplein. All stallholders use reusable cups and plates. Visitors pay a deposit, which can be returned at any stall. More information and the full programme are available at www.visitantwerpen.be.
The Winter in Antwerp Christmas Market started in the early 2010s. At first, it was centred on Groenplaats. Over the years, it expanded to include Handschoenmarkt, Grote Markt, and Suikerrui. Newer squares, such as Hendrik Conscienceplein and Operaplein, were added in recent years. The market now features more than 70 vendors, festive light displays, ice rinks, and family attractions.
