Christmas Events for Kids in Bruges (2026)

Christmas Events for Kids
Written by Kelsey Cecil

10 min read · Lees in het Nederlands

For 2026, we confirmed 19 Christmas events for kids in Bruges. The season opens on November 9 with An Advent Day for the Whole Family and runs until January 6 with Christmas Market at the Abenteueroase (Adventure Oasis). Of these, 12 are free. Every listing links straight to the host. This page is part of our guide to Christmas events for kids in Belgium.

The short version

  • Kids’ Christmas events confirmed for 2026 in Bruges and Berlin: 19
  • First: An Advent Day for the Whole Family, Bruges, November 9
  • Free events: Christmas Market at the Villa Donnersmarck, Arrival of Sinterklaas in Bruges 2026 (Intrede Sinterklaas), Tussendoortje: Sinterklaas Visits, Meet the Sint at the Children's Farm (Kinderboerderij), Family Concert: Christmas with Astrid Lindgren, Christmas Market at the Abenteueroase (Adventure Oasis) and more

Below is every event we could confirm, grouped by town, with the date, time, cost and the small things parents ask about (registration, ages, what is included).

At a glance: Christmas events for kids in Bruges

Kids’ Christmas events
19 confirmed for 2026
Towns
Bruges and Berlin
Season
November 9 to January 6
Free events
12
Last checked

Free 12Ticketed and paid 7

Free Christmas events for kids in Bruges

Christmas craftsFree

Christmas Market at the Villa Donnersmarck

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On the third Sunday of Advent, the Villa Donnersmarck turns into a Christmas house. At the small market, handmade goods from craft groups and workshops for people with disabilities are sold, including jewelry, crafts and children's toys.

Kids get a family program: they build and decorate gingerbread houses, make greeting cards, bake campfire bread on a stick (Stockbrot) and explore the whole house following the trail of a riddle. Admission is free, and registration is requested. Address: Villa Donnersmarck, Schädestraße 9, 14165 Berlin.

Parent tip: Register ahead of time through the foundation's site. Zehlendorf S-Bahn station is only a few minutes away.

Host
Fürst Donnersmarck-Stiftung (opens in a new tab)
Where
Villa Donnersmarck, Komvest 45, 8000 Bruges (opens in maps)
Registration
Recommended
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Fürst Donnersmarck-Stiftung (opens in a new tab)

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Rally’s Christmas research

Rally the corgi has 18 more Bruges events researched for you.

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Coming up on this page

  • 9 Crafts
  • 7 Story time
  • 3 Santa
  • 3 Shows
  • 12 Free

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Saint Nicholas visitFree

Arrival of Sinterklaas in Bruges 2026 (Intrede Sinterklaas)

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On Sunday, Nov 22, Sinterklaas (Saint Nicholas) arrives in Bruges by boat. Together with his wacky band of Pieten (his helpers), he then parades through the city, and kids can greet him along the route or follow the arrival live at ’t Zand, between 2:30 and 4:30 pm.

The Jeugddienst (youth service) of Bruges is also running a drawing contest: drop your drawing for the Sint in the mailbox at the town hall (stadhuis) and maybe the kanspiet (the lucky Piet) will pick your artwork. The mailbox is emptied on Monday, Nov 16, so make sure your drawing is in before then. The celebration is free and meant for children up to age 15.

Parent tip: Put your drawing for the contest in the mailbox at the town hall before Monday, Nov 16.

Host
Jeugddienst Brugge (opens in a new tab)
Where
’t Zand, 't Zand, 8000 Bruges (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Jeugddienst Brugge (opens in a new tab)

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Saint Nicholas visitFree

Tussendoortje: Sinterklaas Visits

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The Bruges library regularly organizes tussendoortjes, original reading moments to get kids excited about books. On Wednesday, Nov 25, the main library Biekorf gets a special visitor: together with the Sint, the librarians read Sinterklaas stories aloud, and of course there is something sweet to nibble on.

The reading moment runs from 2 to 2:50 pm and is meant for children ages 3 to 10. It is free to take part. The same afternoon, the Sint also visits Bibliotheek Daverlo (3:30 pm) and ldc de Garve (5 pm), in case the main library does not suit you. For more info, contact jeugd.bibliotheek@brugge.be.

Parent tip: If Wednesday at 2 pm does not work, the Sint also reads the same day at Bibliotheek Daverlo and ldc de Garve. Expect it to be in Dutch.

Host
Openbare Bibliotheek Brugge (opens in a new tab)
Where
Hoofdbibliotheek Biekorf, Kuipersstraat 3, 8000 Bruges (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Openbare Bibliotheek Brugge (opens in a new tab)

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Saint Nicholas visitFree

Meet the Sint at the Children's Farm (Kinderboerderij)

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On Saturday, Nov 28, the Sint (Sinterklaas, Saint Nicholas) comes to Kinderboerderij De Zeven Torentjes in Assebroek. From 2 to 4:30 pm you can find him with his Pieten (helpers) in the cozy cow barn, where all kids can share their wishes and wants.

You can have a free photo with the Sint, and the Pieten have a treat for everyone. Kids can also make their own sintkoekjes (Saint Nicholas cookies) throughout and watch them baked in the farm's authentic oven. The activity is free and for all ages, and no registration is needed. A nice chance to visit the animals at the children's farm at the same time.

Parent tip: The photo with the Sint is free, so feel free to bring your own camera or phone.

Host
Kinderboerderij De Zeven Torentjes (opens in a new tab)
Where
Kinderboerderij De Zeven Torentjes, Canadaring 41, 8310 Bruges (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Kinderboerderij De Zeven Torentjes (opens in a new tab)

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Carol concertFree

Family Concert: Christmas with Astrid Lindgren

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The family concert in Dahlem gets everyone in the mood for Christmas with Astrid Lindgren's story Als der Bäckhult-Bauer in die Stadt fuhr (When the Bäckhult Farmer Went to Town). Andreas Peer Kähler narrates, and the Astrid-Lindgren-Combo plays Swedish folk music on violin, clarinet, recorder, accordion and double bass.

Before the concert starts, kids can bake Swedish cinnamon rolls with guidance, and they are eaten after the concert. Baking begins 45 minutes before the concert and costs nothing extra. The program is meant for kids ages 5 and up and lasts 60 minutes. Address: Rudolf-Steiner-Haus, Bernadottestraße 90/92, 14195 Berlin.

Parent tip: Every child needs a ticket. Doors open at 1:15 pm, and baking starts at the same time. Expect it to be in German.

Host
Rudolf-Steiner-Haus Berlin (opens in a new tab)
Where
Rudolf-Steiner-Haus, Sint-Amandsstraat 5, 8000 Bruges (opens in maps)
Registration
Recommended
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Rudolf-Steiner-Haus Berlin (opens in a new tab)

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Family Christmas eventFree

Christmas Market at the Abenteueroase (Adventure Oasis)

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The Abenteueroase in Steglitz belongs to the Christian Scouts Association Berlin-Brandenburg. On the first December weekend, the grounds become a Christmas market for families. There are crafts, vegetarian treats from around the world and handmade goods, and the proceeds go to various projects.

Games and hands-on activities are prepared for kids, and a campfire is burning. Social groups and organizations present their work. Admission is free, and it is open from 3 to 8 pm. Address: VCP-Abenteueroase, Bergstraße 51, 12169 Berlin.

Parent tip: The market is outdoors, so dress warmly.

Host
Verband Christlicher Pfadfinder*innen Berlin-Brandenburg (VCP) (opens in a new tab)
Where
VCP-Abenteueroase, Steenstraat, 8000 Bruges (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Verband Christlicher Pfadfinder*innen Berlin-Brandenburg (VCP) (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas story timeFree

The Christmas Bakery: The Musical (Die Weihnachtsbäckerei)

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Die Weihnachtsbäckerei (The Christmas Bakery) plays from Nov 27 to Dec 27, 2026 at the Punch Line Club at Potsdamer Platz. The well-known family musical with hits by Rolf Zuckowski is about whether you can wish for snow and where the recipe for the Christmas cookies has gone.

The show lasts 75 minutes with no intermission and is recommended for ages 4 and up. There are many dates, for example Friday, Dec 11, at 3:30 pm and Dec 26 at noon. Tickets start at €36.90. Address: Punch Line Club Berlin, Marlene-Dietrich-Platz 1, 10785 Berlin.

Parent tip: Exact times differ from day to day, so please check the ticket calendar. Expect it to be in German.

Host
Punch L!ne Club Berlin (opens in a new tab)
Where
Punch L!ne Club Berlin, Sint-Amandsstraat 5, 8000 Bruges (opens in maps)
Registration
Recommended
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Punch L!ne Club Berlin (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas story timeFree

Glittery and the Sparkle Elf (Glittery und der Funkelwichtel)

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In the snowy magic forest, the big Glitter Festival is being prepared. But the magic light of the little Sparkle Elf (Funkelwichtel) from the North Pole has disappeared, and without it he cannot grant the heartfelt wishes of the animal children.

The fairy Glittery and her friends set out to look for it. The Christmas fairy tale is shown as a lovingly staged puppet theater. In December alone there are 17 dates at Glittery's Magical Store in Köpenick's Old Town. Tickets start at €12.34. Address: Glittery's Magical Store, Alt Köpenick 31/33, 12555 Berlin.

Parent tip: Seats are limited, so book in good time. Expect it to be in German.

Host
Glittery's Magical Store (opens in a new tab)
Where
Glittery's Magical Store, Sint-Amandsstraat 5, 8000 Bruges (opens in maps)
Registration
Recommended
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Glittery's Magical Store (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas marketFree

Midwinter Festival 2026 (Midwinterfeest)

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On Sunday, Dec 13, Musea Brugge once again brings the Midwinterfeest to the picturesque Balstraat, by the Volkskundemuseum (Folklore Museum). There are stalls with handmade products, knickknacks and plenty of treats, and carolers, a belleman (town crier with a bell) and other historical characters create an atmosphere of days gone by.

The museums nearby, including the Kantcentrum (Lace Center) and the Adornesdomein, offer an extra program inspired by Bruges heritage and old winter traditions; you can find the full program at museabrugge.be. The festival runs from 10:30 am to 6 pm and admission is free. It is a nice, relaxed way to show kids how winter was celebrated in the old days.

Parent tip: Check the museums' program at museabrugge.be beforehand for activities geared to kids.

Host
Musea Brugge (opens in a new tab)
Where
Volkskundemuseum and Balstraat, Balstraat 43, 8000 Bruges (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Musea Brugge (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas story timeFree

Who, How, What Christmas? (Wer Wie Was Weihnachten?)

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As always, the trolls Frieda and Mey hibernate through the winter. This year Knut wakes them by saying that Christmas is at the door. But nobody is standing outside, so the two set off to look for the mysterious Christmas: is it big, small or dangerous?

The play is performed with puppets at the Schaubude puppet theater in Prenzlauer Berg. The first date in the calendar is Saturday, Dec 5, at 3 pm, and four more dates are added. Tickets start at €15. Address: Schaubude Berlin, Greifswalder Straße 81-84, 10405 Berlin.

Parent tip: You can find the other dates and the age recommendation in the Schaubude's schedule. Expect it to be in German.

Host
Schaubude Berlin (opens in a new tab)
Where
Schaubude Berlin, Sint-Amandsstraat 5, 8000 Bruges (opens in maps)
Registration
Recommended
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Schaubude Berlin (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas story timeFree

Oh, du furzige Weihnachtszeit! (Oh, You Farty Christmas Season)

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In the theater tent on Wexstraße in Wilmersdorf, the kids' play Oh, du furzige Weihnachtszeit runs from Nov 25, 2026 to Jan 3, 2027. The calendar of the Berlin capital portal lists more than 40 dates, and the first one in December is on Saturday, Dec 5, at 2 pm.

The play is meant for kids and takes a rather silly approach to the Christmas season. Tickets start at €16.88. Bundesplatz S-Bahn station is right at the tent. Address: Theaterzelt in Wilmersdorf, Wexstraße 35, 10715 Berlin.

Parent tip: Check the age recommendation with the organizer before you book. Expect it to be in German.

Host
Furzipups (opens in a new tab)
Where
Theater tent in Wilmersdorf, Sint-Amandsstraat 5, 8000 Bruges (opens in maps)
Registration
Recommended
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Furzipups (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas events for kids in Berlin

Santa Claus paradeFree

Family Christmas Market at Alice-Salomon-Platz (Berlin)

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From late November to Dec 27, a Christmas market aimed especially at families stands on Alice-Salomon-Platz in Hellersdorf. Admission is free, it is open daily from 11 am to 9 pm, and only on Dec 24 is the market closed.

Kids can ride the chain swing carousel or the kids' train, try games of skill and wander through a maze. Adults will find a mulled wine hut with Christmas classics. Hellersdorf U-Bahn station is right next door. Address: Alice-Salomon-Platz, 12627 Berlin.

Parent tip: Rides are not included in admission. The afternoon is usually quieter than the evening.

Host
Berlin.de Weihnachtsmärkte (opens in a new tab)
Where
Alice-Salomon-Platz, Stokerij 10, 8380 Berlin (opens in maps) (near Brugge)
Registration
Recommended
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Berlin.de Weihnachtsmärkte (opens in a new tab)

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Ticketed and paid Christmas events for kids in Bruges

Admission, tickets or a fee apply. Where a host has not posted a price yet, the listing says so.

The #1 spot Event hosts: free events are listed first. One featured spot puts your event at the very top of this page.Ask about the #1 spot

Family Christmas event

An Advent Day for the Whole Family

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At the Museum Europäischer Kulturen in Dahlem, the Saturday before the second Sunday of Advent brings a program that runs all afternoon. Kids make Christmas cards, weave on cardboard, braid Danish Christmas hearts and Hawaiian stars, and bake cookies to decorate. Two story hours with a wintry fairy-tale journey are part of it too.

Other stops include a guided visit to the mechanical Christmas mountain (Weihnachtsberg) from the Erzgebirge, where the Christmas story is told, and a tour about the Krampus in Tyrol. At 4 pm there is a sing-along. Taking part is free with a valid museum ticket, and no registration is needed. Address: Museum Europäischer Kulturen, Arnimallee 25, 14195 Berlin.

Parent tip: The workshops have set times, so it is best to come at the start. The Krampus tour may be too scary for very small children. Expect the tours and story hours to be in German.

Host
Museum Europäischer Kulturen (Staatliche Museen zu Berlin) (opens in a new tab)
Where
Museum Europäischer Kulturen, Middenplein, 8000 Bruges (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Museum Europäischer Kulturen (Staatliche Museen zu Berlin) (opens in a new tab)

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Family Christmas event

Angels. Heavenly Messengers (Engel. Himmlische Boten)

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How are angels shown in paintings, and what stories belong to these heavenly beings? First, kids and adults walk through the exhibition together and meet angels who make music, deliver messages, fight or pray.

Afterward, participants make their own winged angel figures. The workshop is meant for kids ages 6 to 12 and takes place on a Saturday in Advent. The fee includes museum admission, and the number of participants is limited. Address: Gemäldegalerie, Matthäikirchplatz 4, 10785 Berlin.

Parent tip: The meeting point is the foyer. Booking online is recommended because spots are limited. Expect it to be in German.

Host
Gemäldegalerie (Staatliche Museen zu Berlin) (opens in a new tab)
Where
Gemäldegalerie, Koning Albert I-laan, 8000 Bruges (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Gemäldegalerie (Staatliche Museen zu Berlin) (opens in a new tab)

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Saint Nicholas visit

De Zotte Pietenshow en de Sint (The Wacky Pieten Show and the Sint)

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The Pieten (Sinterklaas's helpers) have finished all their tasks and now it is time to relax. Everyone has their own hobby, but Boris wants to do something fun together, and nobody feels like it. Boris finds that boring, but luckily his friends come up with the ideal solution. And of course Sinterklaas himself drops by too.

The show by vzw ARTBIJ, with music by Roosje Strobbe, is organized by the Gezinsbond Brugge (family association) and plays on Sunday, Nov 22, from 4:30 to 5:30 pm at the Concertgebouw. That is the same afternoon as the Sint's arrival at ’t Zand, right next door. Tickets cost €7 and are sold through UiT in Brugge or ticketsbrugge.be.

Parent tip: Combine it with the Sint's arrival at ’t Zand the same afternoon (2:30 to 4:30 pm). Expect the show to be in Dutch.

Host
Gezinsbond Brugge (opens in a new tab)
Where
Concertgebouw Brugge, 't Zand 34, 8000 Bruges (opens in maps)
Registration
Required
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Gezinsbond Brugge (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas crafts

Workshop: Christmas Craft Studio (Knutselatelier Kerst)

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On Wednesday afternoon, Dec 2, Kinderboerderij De Zeven Torentjes in Assebroek opens a craft studio in full Christmas spirit. Kids ages 6 to 12 make their own Christmas decorations to hang on the tree at home or put on the table.

The workshop runs from 2 to 4 pm and costs €2 per child (€0.40 with the UiTPAS opportunity rate). Registration is required and has been open since September, so spots can go quickly. If your kids like crafting: on Dec 16 there is also a winter workshop at the same children's farm. You can combine the afternoon with a visit to the animals.

Parent tip: Registration is required; check the reservation button on UiT in Brugge to see if there is still room. Expect the workshop to be in Dutch.

Host
Kinderboerderij De Zeven Torentjes (opens in a new tab)
Where
Kinderboerderij De Zeven Torentjes, Canadaring 41, 8310 Bruges (opens in maps)
Registration
Required
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Kinderboerderij De Zeven Torentjes (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas story time

Christmas Tussendoortje (Kerst-tussendoortje)

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With the tussendoortjes, the Bruges library wants to get kids excited about stories in all kinds of ways. On Wednesday, Dec 16, there is a Christmas edition at Bibliotheek Scharphout, together with Mintus at the Buurtcentrum Scharphout (neighborhood center).

First a beautiful Christmas story is read aloud, then the kids get creative and everyone makes their own Christmas centerpiece (kerststukje). The library provides all the materials; you only bring a small plate to carry the centerpiece home safely. The tussendoortje runs from 2 to 3:30 pm, is meant for children ages 6 to 12 and costs €2 (€0.40 with the UiTPAS opportunity rate).

Parent tip: Send your child with a small plate for the centerpiece. Expect it to be in Dutch.

Host
Openbare Bibliotheek Brugge (opens in a new tab)
Where
Bibliotheek Scharphout (Buurtcentrum Scharphout), Bruges (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Openbare Bibliotheek Brugge (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas show

Oh oh oh dennenboom (Oh Oh Oh Christmas Tree)

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Every year countless spruces and pines are chopped down, but what do those trees themselves think about it? In this quirky family show from hetpaleis, made by Kim Karssen and Hendrik Kegels, the trees have had enough this year. It is a mix of witty musical, object theater and conifer ballet: a big anarchic spectacle for the whole family.

CC Brugge is programming the show on Monday, Dec 28, at 3 pm at the Stadsschouwburg, for everyone ages 6 and up. The base rate is €8, the standard ticket €16. Before the show there is a touch tour for blind and visually impaired visitors; registration for it is required through VeBeS at 050 40 60 19.

Parent tip: For the touch tour for blind or visually impaired kids, you must register beforehand with VeBeS. Expect the show to be in Dutch.

Host
CC Brugge (opens in a new tab)
Where
Stadsschouwburg Brugge, Vlamingstraat 29, 8000 Bruges (opens in maps)
Registration
Required
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with CC Brugge (opens in a new tab)

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Rally looks for new Christmas events in Bruges every day and adds them to this page. Enter your email for one weekly update with the latest finds.

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Christmas show

Lejo Christmas Show (Lejo Kerstshow)

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Ho ho ho, it is time for a Christmas show with Lejo, the well-known finger puppet, and all his friends. Together they decorate a tree, sing Christmas songs and ring jingle bells, and even Rudolph the Reindeer stops by. It is all performed with the two hands of Leo Petersen and his suitcase full of wooden eyes.

The show is made for children ages 3 to 6 and their parents or grandparents, and lasts about 50 minutes. Afterward everyone can make their own Lejo Christmas puppet and play with it. There are two shows on Tuesday, Dec 29, at the Stadsschouwburg, at 2 and 4 pm. The base rate is €7, the standard ticket €14.

Parent tip: Two showtimes on the same day; pick the early show if your preschooler still naps in the afternoon. Expect it to be in Dutch.

Host
CC Brugge (opens in a new tab)
Where
Stadsschouwburg Brugge, Vlamingstraat 29, 8000 Bruges (opens in maps)
Registration
Required
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with CC Brugge (opens in a new tab)

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More Christmas events for kids in Belgium

A story for the trip home

Our picture book follows Rally the corgi on his first train ride to see his grand-paw-rents. It is a cozy story to share on the way home after a big day out.

Rally Takes the Train book cover: a watercolour corgi peeking from a red train

A bedtime story after seeing SantaRally Takes the Train is a five-minute rhyming picture book about a corgi’s first train ride, hand-painted in real watercolor. Ages 0 to 8.

Buy on Amazon.com.be (opens in a new tab)

Christmas events for kids in Bruges: questions parents ask

What are the 2026 Christmas events for kids in Bruges?

For 2026, we confirmed 19 Christmas events for kids in Bruges, each on its host’s own page: An Advent Day for the Whole Family, Midwinter Festival 2026 (Midwinterfeest), De Zotte Pietenshow en de Sint (The Wacky Pieten Show and the Sint) and 16 more. Each one is listed above with times, cost and a link to the host.

Are there free Christmas events for kids in Bruges?

Yes, 12 of the 19 events here are free: Midwinter Festival 2026 (Midwinterfeest), Family Concert: Christmas with Astrid Lindgren, Arrival of Sinterklaas in Bruges 2026 (Intrede Sinterklaas) and 9 more. Some free events still ask you to register, so check each listing.

Where can kids see Santa this year in Bruges?

Where to see Santa: De Zotte Pietenshow en de Sint (The Wacky Pieten Show and the Sint), Arrival of Sinterklaas in Bruges 2026 (Intrede Sinterklaas), Tussendoortje: Sinterklaas Visits and 1 more. Check the listings above for times and booking.

Where are there Christmas story times for kids in Bruges?

Christmas story times on this page: Family Concert: Christmas with Astrid Lindgren, Christmas Tussendoortje (Kerst-tussendoortje), Tussendoortje: Sinterklaas Visits and 4 more. Library story times are usually free; ones with a meal or show are ticketed.

How do you confirm these events?

We list an event only after we find this season’s date on the host’s own website or an official city, library or tourism calendar. We last checked every listing on November 9, 2026. Hosts change details, so always confirm on the host’s page before you go.

Event names belong to their hosts. Rally Takes the Train is a family picture book and is not affiliated with, sponsored by or endorsed by any host listed here. Confirm dates, times and prices on each host’s own site before you go.

The story of Christmas in Bruges

In Bruges, the festive season starts in November when Sinterklaas arrives, and ends with a rustic nativity scene beside the cathedral. In between come ice skating, story hours and a funfair on 't Zand.

How Bruges celebrates Christmas

Bruges stretches its Christmas season over several weeks. It begins in November with the arrival of Sinterklaas, the gift bringer, and continues with Wintergloed, the city's winter festival, which has been part of the season since 2019. In 2025 Wintergloed ran from November 21 to January 4, 2026, with Christmas markets on the Markt and the Simon Stevinplein and an ice rink in Koning Albert I park.

For a visiting family, the surprise is how much happens before December 25. Sinterklaas has his own day on December 6, when children find their presents and treats, so the gift season starts well before Christmas.

December parties are not new here. Bruges once had a winter fair every year on December 8, until it was abolished in 1760.

Sinterklaas, the nativity scene and the winter fair

Sinterklaas is based on Nicholas of Myra, a Greek bishop from the fourth century, which is why he wears a red cloak and a tall red mitre with a gold cross, and carries a golden staff and a big book. On the evening of December 5, kids set out something for him and a carrot and a sugar cube for his horse. On the morning of December 6 they find presents and treats such as speculoos cookies, chocolate figures, marzipan and tangerines.

In 2018 he arrived in Bruges by boat as far as the town hall, then rode in a carriage to the Concertgebouw on 't Zand. Today the nativity scene is the calmer highlight: a large rustic Christmas crib next to Saint Salvator's Cathedral, built by carpenter David Hendrickx after the well-known Turnhout crib, which is based on a Bruegel painting. It opened on December 7, 2025, can be taken apart and rebuilt every year, and choirs sing carols there.

In 2026 the nativity scene is there again from December 4.

Planning a Christmas visit to Bruges with kids

The season on this page starts on Sunday, November 22, 2026 with the Sinterklaas arrival at 't Zand and runs to the end of December. Many events are free, including the arrival, a Sinterklaas story hour at the Biekorf library on November 25 and a meet-and-greet with the Sint at the children's farm on November 28.

December is rich in storytelling at a children's bookshop, craft workshops and the free Midwinter festival on December 13. The ice rink IJsgloed opens November 20 in Koning Albert I park, and a funfair on 't Zand runs from November 9 to December 30. After Christmas, family shows at the theater fill December 28 and 29.

The light walk that was part of Wintergloed ended after 2025. Events are mostly in Dutch, so check with the host if you need English.

A moon that was not there, and a record year

The very first Wintergloed, in 2019, was a 2-kilometer route with six light zones. On the Poertoren, a 19-meter medieval tower, a moon shone that was only a projection. The 2023 edition drew a record 570,000 visitors.

In 2025 the light walk, themed Machina Lumina, had ten installations, including a glittering forest of glowing deer in Minnewater park. That was the seventh and last edition of the light walk. There used to be a third Christmas market on 't Zand too, but it stopped in 2021 because too few people came.

Traditions today

  • The arrival of Sinterklaas: The Sint comes to Bruges in November, followed by a family show at the Concertgebouw. In 2026 the arrival is on November 22 at 't Zand.
  • Putting out something for the Sint on December 5: Kids set out something for the Sint and a carrot and sugar cube for his horse. The presents are there on the morning of December 6.
  • The Wintergloed Christmas markets: Stalls on the Markt and the Simon Stevinplein, spread over two squares to keep crowds down.
  • The Bruges nativity scene: A large rustic Christmas crib on the Steenstraat beside Saint Salvator's Cathedral, where choirs come to sing carols. Each year it supports a charity.
  • Ice skating in Koning Albert I park: During Wintergloed an outdoor rink sits in the park. In 2026 it is called IJsgloed and opens on November 20.
  • The Midwinter festival: A Christmas craft market, craft tables for kids at the Folklore Museum, a speculoos baker at work and Christmas stories in a small chapel, in the Sint-Anna district.

A fact for kids

In 2025 a glittering forest of glowing deer lit up Minnewater park in Bruges. And years ago a moon shone on the Poertoren tower, although it was only a projection.

Questions about Christmas in Bruges

Is Bruges worth visiting at Christmas with kids?

Yes. The season brings Sinterklaas, a rustic nativity scene, an ice rink, a funfair and many free events, from story hours to a Midwinter festival. Several outings fit comfortably into one trip.

When does Sinterklaas arrive in Bruges?

In 2026 the arrival is on Sunday, November 22, from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. at 't Zand, and it is free. A family Piet show with Sinterklaas takes place the same afternoon at the Concertgebouw, right next to the square, for 7 euros.

How does Sinterklaas arrive in Bruges?

In 2018 he came by boat as far as the town hall, then the city welcomed him on the Burg and he rode in a carriage to the Concertgebouw. Check the 2026 program for the exact route.

Where can kids meet Sinterklaas in Bruges?

Beyond the arrival, kids can meet the Sint at the Biekorf main library on November 25 for a free story hour for ages 3 to 10, and at the children's farm De Zeven Torentjes on November 28 for photos and cookie baking, also free. A Sinterklaas story hour at the Clavis children's bookshop is on December 2 and December 5.

When do kids in Belgium get their Sinterklaas presents?

On the morning of December 6, the feast day of Saint Nicholas. The evening before, kids set out milk, a carrot and sugar cube for the horse and a treat for the helper. If they have been good, they find gifts and sweets the next morning.

Who is Sinterklaas?

He is based on Nicholas of Myra, a Greek bishop from the fourth century. That is why he wears a red mitre with a gold cross, a red cloak and a golden staff, and carries a big book that says whether kids were good.

What treats does Sinterklaas bring to Belgian kids?

Besides toys, there are traditional sweets: speculoos cookies, chocolate figures, chocolate coins, marzipan and tangerines. Kids find them on the morning of December 6.

What is Wintergloed in Bruges?

It is the winter festival of Bruges, run by Brugge Plus. The first edition was in 2019, with a 2-kilometer light route past the Poertoren, Koning Albert I park and Minnewater. It also includes Christmas markets, an ice rink and a winter bar.

Is the Wintergloed light walk still happening?

No. The 2025 edition, from November 21 to January 4, was the seventh and last light walk. The mayor said every formula wears out, and residents of quiet neighborhoods struggled with the crowds. The city is working on a fireworks show instead.

How many people visit Wintergloed?

The late 2023 edition drew a record 570,000 visitors, who rated it 8.7 out of 10. In 2024 nearly 350,000 people walked the free light route.

Where are the Christmas markets in Bruges?

During Wintergloed 2025 the markets stood on the Markt and the Simon Stevinplein. The city spreads them over two squares to ease crowding. There used to be a third on 't Zand, but it ended in 2021.

Is there a funfair at Christmas in Bruges?

Yes, the Christmas funfair on 't Zand runs from November 9 to December 30, 2026. Entry is free and rides are paid. It has a children's carousel, a duck game and treats.

What is the nativity scene in Bruges?

A large traditional Christmas crib on the Steenstraat beside Saint Salvator's Cathedral, opened on December 7, 2025. It was built by carpenter David Hendrickx after the famous Turnhout crib, and the figures came from Historium on the Markt.

When is the Bruges nativity scene open in 2026?

From December 4 to January 6, and it is free. It can be taken apart and rebuilt each year, and the organizers want to make it a yearly tradition.

Why is there a new nativity scene in Bruges?

The old crib had ended up half hidden among the stalls of the Markt Christmas market. A city councilor and five others started a new one with support from the city, local merchants and sponsors. Choirs sing carols there.

Can you go ice skating in Bruges at Christmas?

Yes. In 2025 the Wintergloed ice rink stood in Koning Albert I park. In 2026 it is called IJsgloed and runs daily from November 20 to January 3, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. It costs 9 euros per person, and kids up to and including age 3 skate free.

What is the Midwinter festival in Bruges?

A free festival in the Sint-Anna district around the Folklore Museum. In 2022 it had a Christmas market, craft tables for kids, a candy maker, a speculoos baker and Christmas stories in a small chapel. In 2026 it is on Sunday, December 13, from 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Did Bruges used to have a winter fair?

Yes. It was held every year on December 8 until it was abolished in 1760. In 1798 fairground workers asked the city to bring it back because Ostend and Dunkirk had one, but the city said no.

What are good indoor Christmas shows for kids in Bruges?

At the Bruges theater, Lejo's finger-puppet Christmas show for ages 3 to 6 is on December 29, and the family musical about rebellious Christmas trees is on December 28 for ages 6 and up. A children's Christmas story hour and craft is on December 16.

Are there free Christmas events in Bruges?

Yes, many. Free examples include the Sinterklaas arrival, the Midwinter festival, the nativity scene, the story hour at Biekorf, an open workshop where families help build the new Winter Giant and the lit tractor parade in Dudzele on December 26.

Are Christmas events in Bruges in English?

Most events are in Dutch, the local language. Parades, markets and the nativity scene need no language, but story hours and shows do, so check with the host.

How do I explain the nativity scene to a young child?

Tell them it shows the story of a baby born in a stable because there was no room anywhere else. The Bruges crib also helps a charity each year, which makes it a story about caring for others.

Sources

  1. Brugge verwelkomt nieuwe kerststal aan Sint-Salvatorskathedraal, VRT NWS
  2. Weekendtips 22 november: Wintergloed, wetenschap, kinderrommelmarkt, VRT NWS
  3. Lichtparcours tijdens eindejaarsperiode in Brugge geschrapt, VRT NWS
  4. Painting Bruges with light for Wintergloed, LSi Online
  5. Wintergloed Festival in Brugge draws over 500,000 visitors, The Brussels Times
  6. De 26 mooiste kerstmarkten en lichtspektakels in ons land, Touring
  7. Sinterklaas maakt ook in Gent, Brugge, Leuven en Hasselt zijn intrede, VRT NWS
  8. De winterfoor van Brugge (Biekorf, 1982), DBNL
  9. Midwinterfeest, Musea Brugge
  10. Who is Sinterklaas, and where can you see him on 6 December?, The Brussels Times
  11. St. Salvator's Cathedral, Wikipedia
  12. Kerstmarkt op 't Zand in Brugge stopt er definitief mee, VRT NWS
Kelsey Cecil
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