Three Must-Visit Places to Experience the Magic of Christmas in Mons
Grand-Place: the heart of the Christmas Market
Mons’ Grand-Place hosts the Christmas Market with around fifty chalets, three pop-up chalets, the “Enchanted Christmas Tree” carousel, the giant Christmas Tower and the Magic Kiosk. Crafts, seasonal treats and entertainment create a festive atmosphere in the historic heart of the city.
Place Léopold: ice rink and funfair
Place Léopold features a 600 m² covered ice rink and a funfair. These winter attractions offer entertainment for visitors of all ages and are the perfect addition to a Christmas outing in Mons.
Marché aux Herbes: conviviality and festive flavours
The Horeca Village at Marché aux Herbes offers a welcoming space to meet, relax and enjoy the warm glow of the holiday season. It is the perfect stop to share good moments and savour festive treats.
A free Christmas train linking the venues
On weekends, a free Christmas train, sponsored by Google, connects the three Mons Cœur en Neige sites, making it easy to travel between the various attractions and activities.
Saturday 5 December 2026: a festive opening on the Grand-Place
Mons Cœur en Neige officially opens on Saturday 5 December 2026 with a day of entertainment, music and festive celebrations.
- 4:30 pm: Parade Amoureuse – the Remue-Ménage company presents a magical and poetic street performance.
- 6:00 pm: Gospel Grace – powerful gospel voices bring festive energy to the city centre.
- 6:30 pm: Official opening ceremony – join the celebrations at the Magic Kiosk on the Grand-Place.
- After the opening until 11:00 pm: RTBF VivaCité DJ set – a lively musical evening to keep the celebrations going.
December 2026 shows and events
Throughout December, numerous events enrich the Christmas programme in Mons.
- Saturday 12 December: Christmas at the Belfry and the Walk of Lights. Two events offering a magical discovery of Mons through heritage, illuminations and Christmas spirit.
- Saturday 19 December: Pyronix show. From 6:00 pm to 7:00 pm, Place Léopold, near Mons railway station, hosts a spectacular Pyronix performance as part of Mons Cœur en Neige.
- 19 to 23 December: Pinocchio by Luc Petit. The Collegiate Church of Saint Waltrude welcomes this spectacular production in an exceptional heritage setting.
- Sunday 20 December: Torchlight walk. Starting at 4:30 pm, this traditional event is one of the highlights of Christmas festivities in Mons.
- Tuesday 22 December: Viva for Life Tour in Mons. For the first time, a stop of the Viva for Life Tour will take place in the heart of Mons Cœur en Neige, promoting solidarity and community spirit.
New Year in Mons: fireworks and January festivities
Thursday 31 December 2026: New Year's Eve and fireworks
From 10:00 pm, the Grand-Place becomes the setting for a festive dance party to celebrate the arrival of the New Year. At midnight, the traditional fireworks display lights up the sky above Mons to welcome 2027.
Saturday 2 January 2027: a Venetian Carnival-inspired parade
Celebrations continue with a parade through the city centre inspired by the Venice Carnival and organised by Passione Veneziana. It is the last opportunity to enjoy the magical atmosphere of Mons Cœur en Neige before the event closes on Sunday 3 January 2027.
Christmas window displays and Sunday shopping in Mons
From 5 to 26 December: Best Christmas Window Display competition
Decorated shop windows throughout the city centre take part in the “Best Christmas Window Display” competition. Visitors can vote for their favourite participating display and stand a chance to win four tickets to Disneyland Paris.
Sundays 6, 13 and 20 December: shops open
Shops in Mons city centre will also be open on Sundays 6, 13 and 20 December 2026. A perfect opportunity to find Christmas gifts, discover local boutiques and combine shopping with a visit to the Christmas Market and its festive attractions.
The full programme and practical information are available on the official website: monscoeurenneige.be
Programme subject to change.
