Ghent in December is a fine mixture of medieval towers, warm cafés and a lively Christmas market. Gentse Winterfeesten (Ghent Winter Festivities) returns from Thursday 3 December 2026 to Sunday 3 January 2027, extending through the end of the Christmas holidays.
Rather than sitting in a single square, the festival spreads through the historic centre. It is easy to combine with a stroll past the cathedral, the city pavilion and the riverside.
Where to go
The main area includes Sint-Baafsplein, Botermarkt, Poeljemarkt, Emile Braunplein, Klein Turkije, Goudenleeuwplein and Korenmarkt. Expect Christmas chalets, snacks, drinks, lights and entertainment. The festival organiser advertises more than 150 chalets, while the city's programme confirms the return of ice skating.
The ice rink beneath the Stadshal (city pavilion) and Ferris wheel at Korenmarkt are highlights advertised for this edition. Individual attractions may have tickets and their own hours; the final daily programme should be checked before planning a time-sensitive visit.
A winter walk through Ghent
Start around Sint-Baafskathedraal, then explore Emile Braunplein and the Stadshal, where you can stop for the rink. Continue towards Korenmarkt and its festive attractions. Afterwards, the Graslei and Korenlei waterfronts are a beautiful extension of the walk, even though they are not the main market squares.
Go in the late afternoon and stay until the lights come on. If it rains, Ghent's cafés and museums offer a welcome break. With children, plan one attraction and a relaxed meal rather than a long sequence of queues.
What to check before travelling
The confirmed festival period is 3 December 2026–3 January 2027. Exact daily opening hours, prices, and changes to individual attractions should be checked on the official Gentse Winterfeesten website.
Getting there: trains arrive at Gent-Sint-Pieters or Gent-Dampoort; neither station is directly on the market squares. Continue by public transport or allow time for the walk. Use De Lijn for city connections.
Costs: you can explore the public streets and market area freely; food, drink and some activities cost extra.
Sources: City of Ghent announcement and festival organiser. Checked 23 October 2026.