The Mons Christmas Market, an annual event held in the Grand Place of Mons, Belgium, is a festive destination attracting visitors with its 40 chalets offering gifts, decorations, food and drinks. Christmas markets spread to Belgium, with Mons' market evolving from informal gatherings to a significant event since the 1980s. Key attractions include an ice rink, live music and a nativity scene, with the market operating from November 25 to December 17, 10:30 am to 10 pm daily. The market is surrounded by historical landmarks like the 15th-century Gothic Mons Town Hall and the Baroque belfry, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The market's central location ensures easy accessibility, with nearby train and bus services. It provides a unique opportunity to experience Belgian culture, shop for unique gifts and indulge in seasonal delights like Belgian waffles, meatballs and mulled wine.
Entry to the market is free, though the ice rink charges a nominal fee. Nearby attractions include the Town Hall, the Belfry of Mons, Saint Waltrude Collegiate Church, the Museum of Fine Arts and the Museum of the Doudou. The market, also known as “Mons Coeur en Neige” (Mons Heart of Snow), offers various local foods and drinks like Glühwein, La Chaude (spiced beer) and hot chocolate.
What is the Mons Christmas Market?
The Mons Christmas Market is an annual Christmas market held in the Grand Place of Mons, Belgium. The market features 40 wooden chalets selling gifts, decorations, food and drinks. It includes market stalls, an ice skating rink, a Christmas tree and nativity scene, Christmas Lights, a live music stage and ambience attracting visitors. The tradition of Christmas markets began in medieval Germany as places for craftsmen to sell goods before Christmas, spreading over time to Belgium and resulting in informal markets in Mons in the past. The current Mons Christmas Market originated in the 1980s as a tiny village-like collection of stalls, gradually expanding over the years with additions such as an ice rink in the 1990s, a stage and entertainment in the 2000s and 40+ vendors and more activities today. Mons was the European Capital of Culture in 2015, increasing tourism. The market continues annually, evolving each year to provide festive Christmas cheer in Mons.
When does the Mons Christmas Market open?
The Mons Christmas Market is open from November 25 until December 17. The operating hours for the 2023 Mons Christmas Market are from 10:30 am to 10 pm daily. These long opening hours allow visitors to enjoy the magical atmosphere at any time of day. The central location right on the Grand Place makes the market very convenient to access. There is an ice skating rink installed right in the Grand Place, carousel rides for children and free live music performances on weekends. On certain days, visitors can see Santa Claus parading through the market.
Where is the Mons Christmas Market taking place?
The Mons Christmas Market is located at Grand Place, 7000 Mons, Belgium. The Grand Place in Mons is surrounded by historic buildings like the 15th century Gothic Mons Town Hall and the Baroque belfry, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Mons also has a train station less than 1 km (0.9 miles) away and buses that stop right at Grand Place, making it convenient to reach. The compact layout of the city center means the market is walkable from most hotels or attractions in Mons.
Why should you visit the Mons Christmas Market?
Listed below are the reasons why you should visit the Mons Christmas Market.
- Festive Ambiance: The Mons Christmas Market is an atmosphere created by the lights, music, decorations and general Christmas cheer, providing visitors a chance to revel in the holiday spirit.
- Discover Local Culture: Mons Christmas Market offers an opportunity to experience Belgian traditions, cuisine, music and people. Visitors gain cultural insights by interacting with locals.
- Shop for Unique Gifts: Mons Christmas Market stalls sell specialised handmade items, crafts, accessories, decorations, artworks and foodie treats that make for distinctive Christmas gifts. Visitors can find one-of-a-kind souvenirs.
- Indulge in seasonal delights: Belgian winter specialities like waffles, crepes, meatballs, mulled wine and hot chocolate can be sampled. The treats warm up visitors while introducing new flavours.
What is the cost of visiting the Mons Christmas Market?
Mons Christmas Market is completely free to enter. There is no admission fee to access the market at Grand Place and browse the stalls. The ice skating rink does require payment of €5 (US $5.36, £4.38) for adult access. The Christmas ambience and activities can be enjoyed without paying anything.
What are the attractions close to Mechelen Christmas Market?
Listed below are the attractions to visit in Mons close to Mons Christmas Market:
- The Town Hall (Hôtel de Ville): The Town Hall is a 15th-century Gothic building, located at Grand Place, the same square where the Mons Christmas Market is held. Visitors can admire its intricate façade and the famous monkey statue, which is said to bring good luck to those who pat it with their left hand.
- The Belfry of Mons: The Belfry of Mon is just a 5-minute walk from the Christmas Market. This UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its impressive carillon and breathtaking 360° views of the city. The belfry stands as a proud symbol of the city's independence and history.
- Saint Waltrude Collegiate Church: Saint Waltrude Collegiate Church is located less than a 10-minute walk from the Christmas Market. Dating back to the 15th century, this church is an architectural marvel and a testament to the city's medieval heritage. The church is known for its impressive collection of religious art and the shrine of Saint Waltrude.
- Museum of Fine Arts: The Museum of Fine Arts is a 10-minute walk from the Christmas Market. The museum showcases pieces by renowned artists, including Bruegel, making it a must-visit for art lovers. The museum's rotating exhibitions and permanent collections provide a deep insight into the artistic heritage of the region and beyond.
- Museum of the Doudou: The Museum of the Doudou is a 5-minute walk from the Christmas Market. The museum displays costumes, artifacts and multimedia presentations, providing visitors with a unique glimpse into this important aspect of Mons' cultural identity.
Is there an alternative name for Mons Christmas Market?
Yes, the alternative name for Mons Christmas Market is “Mons Coeur en Neige”. This French term means “Mons Heart of Snow” in English. Both Mons Christmas Market and Mons Coeur en Neige refer to the same festive event held annually in the city's Grand Place. The bilingual region of Belgium means the market often goes by both its French and English titles.
What food can visitors eat in Mons Christmas Market?
Listed below are the top foods visitors can get at Mons Christmas Market.
- Belgian Waffles: The Belgian Waffles is a classic Belgian treat and food. Mons Christmas Market served hot and often came with a variety of toppings such as melted chocolate, fresh fruit and whipped cream.
- Frites: Belgium's iconic crispy french fries are a staple at the market. Served in a cone with a selection of sauces to choose from, these fries are known for their golden crispiness on the outside while being fluffy on the inside.
- Meatballs and Sausages: Local street food specialities like meatballs and sausages are popular at the market. These are often served with a side of bread or frites and are known for their savoury, hearty flavours. They reflect the local cuisine and provide a filling meal option for visitors.
- Crepes: The crepes are both sweet and savoury varieties. Sweet crepes might be filled with sugar, Nutella or fruit, while savoury versions could include cheese, ham or vegetables.
- Chocolate: Belgium is renowned worldwide for its chocolate and the Mons Christmas Market is no exception. Visitors will find a range of handmade chocolates, from pralines to truffles, each offering a taste of Belgium’s rich chocolate-making tradition.
- Speculoos Cookies: These crunchy Belgian spice cookies are a traditional treat, especially around Christmas. They're made with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves and go great with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate.
What to drink in Mons Christmas Market open?
Listed below are the best drinks in the Mons Christmas Market.
- Glühwein: Glühwein is made from red wine with a blend of spices like cinnamon, cloves, star anise and citrus fruits. In Mons, Glühwein is often served in special souvenir mugs that visitors can take home as a keepsake. These mugs are designed with festive themes or local motifs, making them a popular collectible item of Mons Christmas Market experience.
- La Chaude: La Chaude is a warm spiced beer that offers an interesting alternative to commonly known mulled wine. This beverage is made by warming up a strong Belgian beer and infusing it with a similar blend of spices used in Glühwein, like cinnamon and cloves. La Chaude is a must-try for beer enthusiasts and those looking to experience a different aspect of Mons Christmas Market experience.
- Hot Chocolate: The hot chocolate found at the Mons Christmas Market is a decadent treat of Belgium's renowned chocolate-making tradition. This rich beverage is frequently topped with a generous dollop of whipped cream, adding to its indulgent nature.
What can people buy in Mons Christmas Market?
The Mons Christmas Market offers over one hundred artisan vendors and stalls with unique gift ideas and local handicrafts.
Listed below are the things people can buy in Mons Christmas Market:
- Handcrafted Decorations: The Mons Christmas Market stands out for its handcrafted decorations. These decorations are not just holiday items but works of art, bringing a traditional and personal touch to Christmas celebrations.
- Locally-made Jewelry: The market also has a selection of locally-made jewellery. These stalls are like treasure troves, glittering with necklaces, bracelets and rings crafted by local jewellers.
- Woolens: The Mons Christmas Market highlights the variety of woollen products. These accessories are perfect for the winter season, combining warmth with style.
- Foodie Gifts: The market stalls filled with chocolates, cookies, jams and syrups, made using traditional recipes and local ingredients, offer a taste of Mons’ culinary delights.
- Nativity Figures: The Mons Christmas Market has a collection of nativity figures. These stalls display an assortment of clay, ceramic and wood figurines, each meticulously crafted to depict the nativity scene.
How to get to Mechelen Christmas Market?
Mechelen Christmas Market is accessible by different transportation modes. Visitors can take a train to the Mons train station, less than a kilometer (0.31 miles) from the Grand Place, just a 12-minute walk. The train station in Mons is well-connected, with frequent trains running to and from Brussels and other major cities in Belgium. Visitors taking the bus, including Lines 4, 5 and 6, stop directly at the Grand Place. These buses provide easy access to the train station and other parts of the city. Visitors will find street parking and an underground parking facility at the Les Grand Près du Centre mall, just 500 meters (0.31 miles) away from the market. Taxis are another convenient option, readily available from the train station or bookable via apps, with the ride from the station taking approximately 5 to 10 minutes.
Where to stay in Mons near Mons Christmas Market?
Here are the best hotels to stay near Mons Christmas Market.
- Les Compagnons11: Les Compagnons11 is just a 6-minute walk from Mons Christmas Market, located at 64 Rue des Compagnons 11, 7000 Mons. Visitors can enjoy amenities like breakfast, a garden, non-smoking rooms, parking, communal bathroom, terrace and Wi-Fi.
- Martin's Dream Hotel: Martin's Dream Hotel is just 6-minute drive from Grand Place and is known for its unique church decor, providing a memorable stay with various room types. All rooms are equipped with modern amenities like TV, air conditioning, tea and coffee facilities and a safe.
- Van der Valk Congres & Spa Hotel Mons: Van der Valk Congres & Spa Hotel Mons is just 1.6 km (0.9 miles) from Mons Christmas Market. The hotel room is furnished with a flat-screen TV, a corner desk and a separated toilet and bathroom. Additional amenities include free Wi-Fi, a flatscreen television, coffee and tea facilities and air conditioning.
Where are the best restaurants to eat in Mons Christmas Market?
Here are the best restaurants to stay near Mons Christmas Market.
- Pane & Olio: Pane & Olio is just 2.9 km (1.8 miles ) from Mons Christmas Market. The restaurant ranks #22 in Mons on TripAdvisor. It has white tablecloths, candlelight and a sophisticated ambience. Visitors can enjoy dinner and drinks in an elegant setting. The restaurant receives a customer rating of 4.7 in Google Maps.
- Season's: Season's is located at Rue Notre Dame 2, Mons 7000, just 5-minute walk from Mons Christmas Market. The restaurant ranks #57 in Mons on TripAdvisor. It offers fast food, Mediterranean, healthy, street food and soup options. Season's has counter ordering and some outdoor seating. The restaurant receives a customer rating of 4.6 in Google Maps.
- Black & White Burger Mons: Black & White Burger Mons is located at 12, Rue De La Chaussée, just 2-minute walk from Mons Christmas Market. Visitors can enjoy signature burgers like the bacon burger with smoked cheese or the truffle burger with foie gras. The restaurant receives a customer rating of 4.7 in Google Maps.
What is the impact of the Mons Christmas market on the local economy and tourism?
The Mons Christmas market has become a major driver for the local economy and tourism in Mons, Belgium. The market draws hundreds of visitors each year, resulting in increased spending at local businesses on food, drinks, shopping and accommodations. The market offers income opportunities for local artisans, crafters and food/drink producers, who make up the majority of vendors. It also promotes Mons' cultural heritage and local products to visitors. The surge of tourists fills hotels, B&Bs, Airbnbs and restaurants, providing a significant revenue boost for the hospitality sector. The Mons Christmas market raises the city's profile as a holiday travel destination, brings more future tourism and provides an important annual stimulus for small businesses and employment in Mons.
Is Mons Christmas Market better than Namur Christmas Market?
The most salient advantages of the Mons Christmas market over Namur seem to be its broader scope and focus on tourism appeal. Mons spans five different areas across the city, while Namur is concentrated in three main plazas. Mons also highlights several themed entertainment areas and activities like a toboggan run and carousel, while Namur emphasizes more traditional offerings like choirs and marching bands. Additionally, Mons promotes local artisans and producers as vendors and has special events to attract tourists. Namur's vendor mix and tourism marketing are less clear. Mons appears to structure their market with a priority on creating a diverse, lively atmosphere that appeals specifically to holiday travelers and tourists. The information provided indicates Mons' market likely provides a more extensive and lively experience compared to Namur's more localized market.
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