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From the Winterlights markets in the capital to Kleeschen on 6 December and the bonfires of Buergbrennen, winter in Luxembourg is full of light and traditions. Here is how to make the most of the cold season.
The first winter in a new country can feel long: short days, grey skies, family far away. But Luxembourg has a proven remedy: it literally lights up its cold season. From late November to early January, the capital lives to the rhythm of Winterlights, a programme of Christmas markets, illuminations, concerts and activities organised by the City of Luxembourg and detailed every year on vdl.lu.
Several squares in the centre turn into chalet villages: Place d'Armes with its great Christmas tree, Place de la Constitution with its Ferris wheel depending on the edition, Place de Paris in the station district. You can enjoy warm spiced fruit juice (Kinderpunsch), Gromperekichelcher and waffles, and browse crafts and gifts. An open-air ice rink is usually set up in town, for children and adult beginners alike. Other communes — Esch-sur-Alzette, Differdange, Echternach — have their own, more intimate markets.
| Highlight | Usual period | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Winterlights (Christmas markets) | Late November – early January | Several sites in the city centre; programme on vdl.lu |
| Kleeschen (Saint Nicholas) | 6 December | The children's big day, with parades in the communes |
| Christmas Eve and New Year | 24-25 December, 31 December | Family meals; private fireworks widespread at New Year |
| Liichtmëssdag | 2 February | Children sing door to door carrying lanterns |
| Buergbrennen | First Sunday after Carnival | Great bonfires that 'burn winter away' in the villages |
In Luxembourg, it is traditionally Saint Nicholas (Kleeschen) who brings children their presents, on 6 December — so much so that the day is traditionally free of classes in primary education. Accompanied by the dark-robed Houseker, he parades through many communes in late November and early December. In the preceding weeks, children leave their slippers by the door to receive sweets.
Winter is also the cultural season par excellence: theatres, the Philharmonie and the museums run at full steam. Between two markets, take refuge in the stories of the Lëtzebuerg City Museum or at a concert. You will see: with its lights, traditions and packed calendar, the Luxembourg winter goes by much faster than you fear.
