The Charleroi Christmas Market is taking place in Place Charles II and Boulevard Audent in Charleroi Downtown, Belgium during the holiday Christmas season. The Charleroi Christmas Market opens on Friday 24 November 2023 to Saturday 06 January 2024, attracting thousands over the celebration. The Charleroi Christmas Market is located in the heart of the city and spans the Place Charles II and Boulevard Audent. The market caters to 100 festively embellished wooden chalets lining the squares, proposing traditional Belgian winter foods, mulled wine, crafts and gifts. The Charleroi Christmas Market presents free ice skating and nightly live music and entertainment on an open-air stage aside from shopping. The market highlights entail the towering Christmas tree in the main square, visits with Santa Claus and the illuminated Ferris wheel giving rides high above the market. The Charleroi Christmas Market produces a magical atmosphere in which to celebrate the holidays.
What is the Charleroi Christmas Market?
The Charleroi Christmas Market, also known as “Marché de Noël de Charleroi”, is an annual holiday open market event that takes place in the city of Charleroi, Belgium. It is a traditional holiday market that offers a variety of festive goods, local crafts, seasonal foods and activities in an atmosphere that celebrates the Christmas spirit.
The market caters to 100 decorated stalls selling gifts and crafts, local culinary delights and mulled wine. The market features entertainment such as live music, carol singing and appearances from Saint Nicholas or Father Christmas for children. The origin of Christmas markets can be traced back to medieval Germany, with one of the first known instances being the Dresden Christmas Market in 1434. The concept spread across Europe over the centuries, with each nation adding cultural flavors.
When does the Charleroi Christmas Market open in 2023?
The Charleroi Christmas Market 2023 opens on Friday 24 November 2023 to Saturday 06 January 2024. The market is taking place in the heart of the city spanning the Place Charles II and Boulevard Audent. The coordinates for Place Charles II are 50.411689”N, 4.443058”E. The festive stalls open daily from 10:00 am until 8:00 to 10:00 pm.
Where is the Charleroi Christmas Market taking place?
The Charleroi Christmas Market takes place in Place Charles II and Boulevard Audent in the heart of Charleroi, Belgium. Visitors can reach the Christmas Market by train, arriving at Charleroi Station. Driving directions are to take exit 21 from the E42 Motorway into downtown Charleroi, then follow signs to the market near the City Hall. Charleroi is the name of the city hosting the Christmas market each holiday season.
Why should you visit the Charleroi Christmas Market?
Listed below are the reasons to visit the Charleroi Christmas Market.
- The magical holiday atmosphere. The market transforms downtown Charleroi into a festive winter wonderland with over 100 decorated wooden chalets, twinkling lights, garlands, Christmas trees and seasonal music. Visitors can soak up the enchanting spirit of the season.
- Experiencing Belgian Food. The market offers an immersive taste of local culture through traditional Belgian food like waffles, frites, chocolate and mulled wine. Craftspeople sell handmade wares showcasing Belgian artistry and craftsmanship.
- Holiday shopping. The chalets sell unique holiday gifts, ornaments, decorations, local products, clothing, toys and more. Christmas market visitors can find unique keepsakes and presents.
- Entertainment and activities. The market features live music, caroling, ice skating, carnival rides, visits with Santa and other forms of entertainment for all ages to enjoy.
- Nighttime magic. The market lights up at night and guests can admire the lights and sights during evening strolls for a memorable experience.
- Trying new treats. Belgian specialties like rich hot chocolate, speculoos cookies and sweet cubes of Liege waffles make for tasty treats and the chance to try new flavors.
- Quality family time. The cheerful setting allows families time to bond and make happy holiday memories through activities, tasty food and drinks, rides, music and photo opportunities.
What is the cost of visiting the Charleroi Christmas Market?
The Charleroi Christmas Market does not charge an admission fee to enter the market area. Visitors can enjoy the wooden chalets, lights, decorations and main attractions such as the ice skating rink for free. Certain rides and activities do have a fee. The illuminated Ferris wheel in the central square costs between 3 and 5 euros ($3.27 to $5.45, £2.67 to £4.45) per ride. Children can enjoy rides on vintage carousels for 2-3 euros ($2.18 to $3.27, £1.78 to £2.67) each. Seasonal snacks and beverages like hot chocolate, waffles, frites and mulled wine range from 3-8 euros ($3.27 to $8.72, £2.67 to £7.12). Live music performances and special events may also have ticket fees, such as holiday concerts in the square for 10-15 euros ($10.90 to $16.35, £8.90 to £13.35) per person. Visitors who want food, drinks, souvenirs and to partake in rides and games should budget an additional 15 to 40 euros ($16.35 to $43.60, £13.35 to £35.60) depending on activities. The market offers free entry and is an affordable and magical way to celebrate the season.
What are the attractions close to the Charleroi Christmas Market?
Listed below are the attractions to visit in Charleroi near the Christmas Market.
- Visit the Art Deco City Hall (Hotel de Ville). The City Hall (Hotel de Ville) in Charleroi, an art deco building, features marble halls, intricate woodwork and a 70-metre belfry tower with 49 bells. Christmas market visitors of Chareleroi visit this UNESCO-listed tower, which accommodates the Jules Destrée Museum and the marble Grand Hall of Honour.
- Climb the Belfry Tower of Charleroi. Charleroi's Belfry Tower, part of the City Hall, rises to 70 meters with 47 bells. Christmas market visitors can ascend 257 steps for city views. The tower was built in 1936 and it plays melodies every quarter of an hour which is a highlight at Charleroi Christmas Market.
- See the gold-leaf mosaic in the choir of St. Christopher's Church. St. Christopher's Church in Charleroi boasts a remarkable 200 square meter gold mosaic in the choir, illustrating the Apocalypse which is a good tourist spot near the Charleroi Christmas Market. The 18th-century church features stained glass windows and an organ refurbished in 2003 that Christmas market visitors can visit.
- Visit the Museum of Fine Arts. The Museum of Fine Arts in Charleroi exhibits 19th and 20th-century art, including works by Belgian artists and a room devoted to Magritte. Christmas market visitors of Charleroi can add this to their list as one of the attractions aside from the Charleroi Christmas Market.
- Try the restaurants and cafes along the main thoroughfare. Dining venues along Charleroi's main thoroughfare offer a variety of restaurants and cafés for Christmas market visitors. These establishments provide outdoor seating and serve regional cuisine, ranging from quick snacks to upscale bistros.
Is there an alternative name for Charleroi Christmas Market?
Yes, an alternative name for the Charleroi Christmas Market is “Marché de Noël de Charleroi”. The “Marché de Noël de Charleroi” transforms the city into a festive hub where visitors can indulge in the spirit of the holiday season. This event is a focal point of Christmas celebrations in Charleroi.
What is the impact of the Charleroi Christmas market on the local economy and tourism?
The Charleroi Christmas Market significantly impacts the local economy and tourism in Charleroi, Belgium. Held annually from late November to early January at Place de la Digue and Place Verte, it attracts over 50 local artisans and vendors. The market draws thousands of visitors from Belgium and Europe, with VISITWallonia reporting over 700,000 visitors in 2019. This influx boosts Charleroi's economy, benefiting hotels, restaurants, shops and transportation services. An economic impact study in 2017 showed the Charleroi Christmas Market generated over 3 million euros in revenue for local businesses, particularly hotels and restaurants. Attractions like the ice rink and live entertainment encourage longer visitor stays and increased spending. Tourism in Charleroi during the Christmas Market period rose by 15-20% compared to other times. The Charleroi Christmas Market is a crucial event for Charleroi and the Walloon Region, showcasing local culture and bringing significant economic gains.
Is the Charleroi Christmas Market better than the Namur Christmas Market?
Yes, the Charleroi Christmas Market is better than the Namur Christmas Market in terms of variety and entertainment. The Charleroi Christmas Market excels with its diverse entertainment options, including live music, karaoke and street shows, as well as its large ice rink and rotating artisan lodges. The Namur Christmas Market offers a traditional Christmas experience, but it lacks the dynamism and range of attractions at Charleroi. Regular weekend events and unique features like the nativity scene in the historic chapel make the Charleroi Christmas market a more engaging and varied destination for visitors.
What food can visitors eat at Charleroi Christmas Market?
Listed below are the local Belgian food visitors can eat at the Charleroi Christmas Market.
- Oyster Bar Delicacies. The oyster bar at the Charleroi Christmas Market is a must-visit for seafood aficionados. Fresh oysters, served with a variety of condiments, offer a taste of the sea. This gourmet feature caters to refined palates looking for a premium dining experience.
- Crêpes. Sweet crêpes are a treat at the Charleroi Christmas Market. These thin pancakes come with an assortment of fillings from chocolate to fruit. They cater to those seeking a sweet conclusion to their market exploration.
- Waffles. Belgian waffles are iconic and at the Charleroi Christmas Market, they're a delight for visitors. Crispy on the outside and soft inside, they're often topped with powdered sugar, fruit or chocolate. This dessert is a staple of Belgian culinary pride.
- Cuberdons. Cuberdons are cone-shaped raspberry and cherry-flavored purple candies that are a Belgian specialty. Visitors can purchase bags of cuberdons from candy vendors around the Charleori Christmas market.
- Mosselen-friet. Mosselen-friet is a classic dish of steamed mussels served with fries in a creamy herb and white wine broth is a specialty at the Charleroi Christmas market.
What to drink in the Charleroi Christmas Market?
Listed below are the drinks you can have at the Charleroi Christmas Market.
- Mulled Wine. Mulled Wine is a spiced beverage made with red wine and various mulling spices that offer comfort in the winter. It is served hot and carries the essence of Belgian winter celebrations. Visitors to the Charleroi Christmas Market can drink traditional mulled wine at many stalls.
- Champagne. Champagne at the Charleroi Christmas Market is an indulgence for visitors. Synonymous with celebration, it complements the festive atmosphere. The effervescence and quality of the champagne provide a luxurious experience amidst the holiday cheers.
- Beer. Beer is what Belgium is known for. Charleroi Christmas Market offers a great chance to try traditional festive holiday beers from local breweries. Look for special editions brewed with warming spices like gingerbread, cinnamon and orange peel. Local beers like Nostradamus, Winterkoninkske and Kerst Pater can be found at market stalls in Charleroi.
- Fruit Wines. Fruit Wines using strawberries, raspberries, blueberries and other fruits are a specialty in Charleroi. Fruit wines are often sweetened and sometimes fortified with brandy or other spirits. These fruit wines are available at the Charleroi Christmas market.
What can people buy at Charleroi Christmas Market?
Listed below are the things you can buy at Charleroi Christmas Market.
- Handcrafted Nativity Scenes. Handcrafted Nativity Scenes are done by skilled artisans who sell beautiful miniature nativity scenes carved from wood, molded from clay or made using other materials. These traditional figures like Mary, Joseph and Baby Jesus are lovely Christmas collectibles available at the Charleroi Christmas market.
- Lace Products. Lace Products using fine Belgian lacework, including lace scarves, table runners and doilies, make elegant gifts. These beautiful lace items like scarves, bookmarks and tablecloths are handmade by local artisans and available at various Charleroi Christmas Market stalls.
- Walloon Dolls Traditional. Walloon Dolls Traditional cloth dolls wearing folk costumes from the Wallonia region are popular gifts. Each one has a unique handmade outfit and can be purchased at the Charleroi Christmas market.
- Decorated Glassware. Decorated Glassware such as glass flutes, mugs, bowls and ornaments that have been etched or painted with holiday motifs like snowflakes, holly leaves and poinsettias. These are available at the Charleroi Christmas market.
How to get to Charleroi Christmas Market?
There are multiple transportation choices available to access the Charleroi Christmas Market. These are by plane, train and car. Firstly by plane, your journey commences at Brussels South Charleroi Airport and locate the bus stop or taxi rank. Take a bus or taxi that can take you directly to Charleroi city center, where the Christmas market is conveniently within walking distance of most central areas. Secondly, by train, it is necessary to board a train bound for Charleroi-Sud railway station, exit into the city center and proceed by following the signs or referring to a map that will lead you on a short walk to the Christmas market's location. Thirdly, by car, you must navigate towards Charleroi using major highways like the A54 or E42 and look for signs indicating city center parking. You can continue on foot to reach the Christmas market.
Where to stay in Charleroi during the Charleroi Christmas Market?
Listed below are the best hotels and apartments to stay in during the Charleroi Christmas Market.
- Leonardo Hotel Charleroi City Center. Leonardo Hotel Charleroi City Center is a hotel that offers convenience and comfort. Its location places visitors near the Charleroi Christmas Market and other local attractions. The rooms provide a restful retreat after a day of festivities.
- Ibis Charleroi Centre Gare. Conveniently located near the Charleroi Christmas Market and the train station, Ibis Charleroi Centre Gare proves to be a practical choice for visitors. This hotel offers accessibility and modern amenities, making it an ideal option for travelers seeking a seamless stay.
- Novotel Charleroi Centre. Novotel Charleroi Centre, located near Charleroi Christmas Market, offers elegance and a prime location. The hotel's proximity to Charleroi's attractions enhances the experience of visiting the Christmas Market. Guests at Novotel Charleroi Centre enjoy a relaxing environment and services that ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit.
What are the best restaurants to eat in Charleroi?
Listed below are the best restaurants to eat in Charleroi.
- L'Entre d'Eux. L'Entre d'Eux presents visitors with French cuisine. The restaurant's ambiance and menu reflect the culinary traditions of France, offering a memorable dining experience in Charleroi.
- Portus Cale. Portus Cale offers European and Portuguese dishes. Visitors enjoy a menu that combines the flavors of Portugal with broader European influences. This restaurant is a culinary highlight for guests of Charleroi.
- Il Canto dei Grilli. Il Canto dei Grilli specializes in Italian and Mediterranean flavors and is a must-visit for lovers of Italian cuisine. The restaurant provides a taste of Italy's rich culinary heritage in the heart of Charleroi.
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