The magic of Chrismas revives in the heart of Liège, Cité de Noël !

During the 23 years of its existance, the “Village de Noël de Liège” (Chrismas Village) has become the most important Chrismas market in Belgium concerning size, duration and atmosphere.

Every year, it attracts more than a million visitors, more and more of them are coming from abroad. In accordance with the traditional German Chrismas markets, the “Village de Noël de Liège” creates in the center of the city a very particular atmosphere, full of magic and glamourous Chrimas sentiments. But due to its Latin character, with support of the “village council” and numerous consumption huts, the “Village de Noël” has innovated a festive and convivial ambiance, which enables the village in Liège to distinguish from its Germanic and Alsatian fellows.

Innovation 2009: the Christmas Village heads for the mountains!

On the esplanade of the Place Saint Lambert, at the bottom of the giant sledding run, come join the fun at the first-ever trail-side chalet and watering hole, the "Dalle en Pente". Try some authentic mountain-style cuisine (raclette, stone grill dishes) or enjoy a glass of mulled wine on the terrace as you watch the kids gleefully careen down the snowy slopes.

Right beside this sledding restaurant, you’ll find five thematic chalets featuring traditional mountain fare (Croziflette gratin), a ski bar, and a variety of alpine specialities and original products, including the latest coteaux de Liège wine. And you won’t want to miss the "carnotzet", the exclusive Swiss mountain chalet, where you and your friends and family can enjoy a cosy meal and private party, all to yourself (booking required)!

The gourmet shop Sweet Christmas Flavours is back again this year by popular demand. Take your pick among the delicious candy, chocolate, nougat, puff pastry, biscuits and cake on offer. No Christmas would be complete without a sampling of these delights. A feast for the eyes and mouth, for parents and children alike.

And for even more Christmas cheer, the whole Village is bathed in the warm glow of the tower, twinkling from 15 metres above.

Gift alert: the collection of Christmas Village ornaments has grown to include characters from Walloon and Liégeois folklore

Also back by popular demand are the fabulous Christmas Village ornaments featuring traditional Walloon and Liégeois characters, to hang from your Christmas tree. These exquisite glass balls were designed by a Liège-based couple and made entirely by hand, the old-fashioned way — hand blown and hand painted by traditional craftsmen!

Newcomers to this year’s collection include "la Haguète", a Carnaval figure from Malmédy, "la Macrale", a witch from Vielsalm, and colourful Napoleon-era characters such as the piper, the drummer and the fool. All in all, there are seven new characters to choose from to keep Tchantchès, Nanesse, Charlemagne and Marcatchou company and decorate your Christmas tree in style!