Gentse Winterfeesten: A Festive Winter Wonderland in Ghent
Experience the magic of Ghent's winter festival: chalets, ice skating, and festive delights in a historic city center transformed for the holidays.
The Gentse Winterfeesten transforms Ghent's city center into a magical winter wonderland each December. This festive event features charming chalets, a Ferris wheel, an ice-skating rink, and a variety of food and drink stands, offering an unforgettable experience for all ages.
A brief summary to Gentse Winterfeesten
- Poeljemarkt 9000, Ghent, 9000, BE
- Monday 8:25 am-9:10 pm
- Tuesday 8:25 am-9:10 pm
- Wednesday 8:25 am-9:10 pm
- Thursday 8:25 am-9:10 pm
- Friday 8:25 am-9:10 pm
- Saturday 8:25 am-9:10 pm
- Sunday 8:25 am-9:10 pm
Local tips
- Dress warmly, as the Winterfeesten are primarily an outdoor event. Layers are recommended to stay comfortable in the cold weather.
- Try the local delicacies, such as Belgian waffles, frites, and mulled wine, available at the various food stands throughout the market.
- Visit during the weekdays to avoid the largest crowds, as weekends tend to be busier.
- Take advantage of the public transportation options, as parking can be challenging during the festival.
- Check the official website for special events, concerts, and updated opening hours.
Getting There
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Walking
From the Gravensteen castle, walk east along Jan Breydelstraat, then turn right onto Korenmarkt. The Winterfeesten area will be directly in front of you. This is a short walk, approximately 5 minutes, and is free.
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Public Transport
From Gent-Sint-Pieters train station, take tram line 1 to Korenmarkt. The journey takes approximately 10 minutes. From Korenmarkt, the Winterfeesten locations are within easy walking distance. A single ticket costs around €3.00.
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Taxi
A taxi from Gent-Sint-Pieters train station to Korenmarkt will cost approximately €10-€15 and take around 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic.
Discover more about Gentse Winterfeesten
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Belfort van Gent
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Sint-Jorishof
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Hoogpoort
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Hof van Rijhove
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Korenmarkt
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Jose Rizal Historical Marker - Ghent, Belgium
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Calle Langemunt
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Gildenhuis van de Vrije Schippers
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Dulle Griet
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Graslei
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St Michael's Bridge
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Maaseikplein
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Toreken
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Saint Michael's Bridge
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Treaty of Ghent Marker
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Unmissable attractions to see
Stadshal / City Pavilion
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Ghent Market Hall
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Botermarkt
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Belfry of Ghent
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Mammelokker
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Ghent City Hall
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Chocolaterie Luc Van Hoorebeke
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Café Den Turk
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Sint-Baafsplein
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Standbeeld van Jan-Frans Willems
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Fuente de Jan Frans Willems
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Monument Jan Frans Willems
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Town Hall
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Glengarry Gentse Bier- en whiskywandelingen
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The Glengarry
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Essential places to dine
SGOL
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Passion
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Van Artevelde Restaurant
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La Cave Restaurant
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Aroma Restaurant
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Taste of India
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't Vosken
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Bridge
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De Rechters
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Ellis Gourmet Burger
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Poule & Poulette
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Du Progres
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Amfora
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Borluut
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Restaurant De Rave
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Paparazzi
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Belgian Treasures
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The Vault Gent
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Bourdon Arcade
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Bookz&Booze Gent
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tinedegroote
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Houthuis Gent - Retro Shop
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The Other Shop
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Bongo Gent
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SeventyOne Ghent
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Ydee Design House
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Grote Schatten
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Parfumerie April Gent
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& Other Stories
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HEMA
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Ringo Music Bar
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PUBLIKA
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Woody's
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Bar Baer
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Bar Dada
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Mòris
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Parole Winebar & Co
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The mix
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De Maecht van Ghent
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Vijf Voor Twaalf
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Café Damberd
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Yo’s Place
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De Bank
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The Celtic Towers Irish Pub
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The Cobbler - Gent
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