Winterlights 2023 in Luxembourg: schedule, fairs, events

The traditional and highly anticipated Winterlights 2023 Winterfest begins this Friday, November 24, and runs through Sunday, January 7, 2024. Expect plenty of treats, drinks, and candy, entertainment for all tastes, and of course, a festive and comfortable atmosphere.

Fairs

This year the festival will take place in 5 locations at the same time. A total of 100 booths are expected, 6 of which will be dedicated to charitable organizations.

Lëtzebuerger Chrëschtmaart

This fair takes place on the Place d'Armes. There will be 37 stalls and entertainment for all tastes. Other attractions include the city's traditional 14-meter Christmas tree and a huge crèche that will delight visitors of all ages.

The fair will be open from November 24, 2023, through January 7, 2024 (except December 25, 2023):

• Sunday through Thursday from 11:00 to 21:00
• Friday and Saturday from 11:00 to 22:00
• December 24, 2023: 11:00 to 18:00

Wantermaart

The fair on the pedestal of the "Golden Lady" already guarantees a luxurious view of Luxembourg in winter. There will be 41 stands, several attractions including trampolines and a Ferris wheel, as well as a café with a panoramic view of the Petrusse Valley and the Adolphe Bridge.

The fair will be open from November 24, 2023, through January 7, 2024 (except December 25, 2023):

• Sunday through Thursday from 11:00 to 21:00
• Friday and Saturday from 11:00 to 22:00
• December 24, 2023: 11:00 to 18:00

Wanterpark

It would be more accurate to describe this place as an ice rink than a fairground. Located in the heart of the capital, in the Parc Kinnekswiss, the 800 m² ice rink has both indoor and outdoor areas. There are several ways to get there: from Avenue Amélie, follow the giant heart, or if you're coming from Rond-Point Schuman or Avenue de la Porte de Neuve, just follow the "Avenue of the Hearts".

The ice rink will be open from November 24, 2023, to January 7, 2024 (except December 25, 2023):

• Sunday to Thursday from 11:00 to 21:00
• Friday and Saturday from 11:00 to 22:00
• December 24, 2023: 11:00 to 18:00

Niklosmaart

Perhaps one of the most famous. Not only because it refers to the main symbol of Christmas, but also because of its location. The festival takes place on the Place de Paris. Here, guests will find numerous stands and delicacies for every gourmet: from mulled wine to soups and roasted sausages. Children will be able to meet Santa Claus and tell him their wish lists.

The fair will be open from November 24, 2023, to January 7, 2024 (except December 25, 2023):

• Sunday through Thursday from 11:00 to 21:00
• Friday and Saturday from 11:00 to 22:00
• December 24, 2023: 11:00 to 18:00

Winterkids

A special fair for children and parents that will open on Place Guillaume II. The concept of the fair has been specially adapted for young visitors. There will be fewer tents and more entertainment: gift workshops, puppet shows, singing and music, and much more.

The fair will be open from November 24 to December 30, 2023:

• Wednesday through Friday from 17:00 to 20:00
• Saturday through Sunday from 15:00 to 18:00
• Weekends are Monday, Tuesday, and December 24.

Santa's Christmas Tour

Of course, no Christmas would be complete without its main symbol — St. Nicholas, better known as Santa Claus, or Kleeschen when we're talking about Luxembourg. On Sunday, December 3, Santa Claus will drive through the city to the delight of the public and, of course, the children. At each stop along the Saint's route, there will be a welcome speech and a colorful procession.

To find Santa Claus in the city, use the schedule:

• 13:30 — Luxembourg Central Station
• 14:00 — Place de Paris
• 15:30 — Old town
• 17:00-18:00 — Place Guillaume II

Cultural Program

There will be something going on at each of the 5 fairs. It could be musicians, theatrical and acrobatic performances, DJ sets, and much, much more. It's simply impossible to list all the upcoming events, so we suggest you don't focus on anything in particular, but just go and enjoy the festivities.

City festivals don't mean that the other venues are going away. If you're not a fan of loud crowds, go to a movie, a theater, or an exhibition. Most venues will operate on a regular schedule, and some will offer special programs for Christmas.

Where can I buy a Christmas tree?

The Christmas tree will be available for purchase from November 24 through December 24, 2023. There will be several outlets throughout the city. It is important to remember that all trees are grown specifically for the holiday and on the territory of the country:

• Place Jean Heinisch / Rue du Fort Elisabeth;
• Place Léon XIII, Bonnevoie;
• Glacis;
• Merl Park;
• Boulevard P Dupong

Where can I see the city lights?

You can enjoy the festive lighting almost everywhere in the city. Since 2009, the authorities have been using LED and energy-saving bulbs. This year, the trend towards environmental friendliness will continue, although no official restrictions have been introduced.

In addition to the traditional garlands, citizens will see colorful sculptures and other installations.

Will weekly markets be open?

Yes, Winterlights 2023 will not affect their opening hours in any way. The city's markets will continue to delight visitors at their traditional locations:

• Place Guillaume II: Wednesdays and Saturdays from 7:30 to 14:00
• Place Leon XIII: Tuesdays from 16:00 to 19:00 (except December 26, 2023)
• Place de Paris: Thursdays from 19:30 to 14:00

Will there be any changes to store hours?

Yes, some stores will change their Sunday hours to better accommodate the festivities. This year, stores will be open from 14:00 to 18:00 on November 26 and December 3, 10, 17, 24 and 31. If you haven't shopped for gifts yet, now is the time!

The start of Winterlights matches Black Friday! Don't miss the start of great discounts all over Luxembourg.

How will the bus schedule change?

On November 26, as well as on December 3, 10, 17, 24, and 31, 2023, i.e. when the shops are open on Sundays, line 16 will be reinforced between the city center and Bertrange/Strassen. The aim is to make it easier for people to go shopping and get back home by reducing the need for private transport.