Traditional decorations…

Each year, from mid-December until early January, the town of Mons puts on its winter clothes. There is magic on every street corner, illuminations decorate the facade of the Hôtel de Ville and the shopping areas, there is a festive atmosphere. A nice way to salute the year that is almost finished and to let in the Christmas spirit. In fact, isn’t it said that everyone remains a child at heart?
 
First the skating rink, it’s the meeting place for fans of winter sliding. With the family, with your friends and colleagues, everyone puts on their skates and sets off, more or less confident, on the 550 m² icy trail. Whether you fall over or show your artistic talent, it’s a moment of fun for all. Note that the skating rink is accessible to persons with reduced mobility thanks to the “special slide” furnishings.
 
And we are always excited to discover the mythical Christmas tree that proudly stands in the Grand-Place, not far from the creche and in the middle of the Christmas village, comprised of around 40 cabins.

It is wonderful to see all these Artisan products (jewellery, leather, fashion accessories, candles, decorations, etc.), and to hear the familiar and comforting sounds of Christmas carols, but also to smell and taste the food from the stalls (sausages and other meat products, roasted chestnuts, warm wine, filled sandwiches, churros, etc.). Stalls that we are pleased to find every year, among which we discover some new arrivals. We’re sure to find that Christmas gift that we’ve been looking for.
 
You can also meet Father and Mother Christmas and warm up with a good bowl of soup, offered by the national lottery! This concept of “solidarity soup” awaits you on the Grand-Place every day from 11am.
 

… but also some new ideas!

Shows and fire eaters, street artists and stilt-walkers, musical troops and parades, they are all there with one ultimate goal, to see your eyes light up and a smile on your face.
 
Take a different kind of ride in a little heated train or on a donkey! A fantastic tale to tell later.
Go to the magic kiosk to tell Father and Mother Christmas your greatest wishes for the coming festivities.
Slide over almost 20 metres on an inflatable toy at the snow toboggan and take a walk around the Marché-aux-Herbes, you will certainly find more incredible entertainment.
On the weekend of the 14th and 15th of December, don’t miss the exceptional descent of Father Christmas, who will abseil down from the belfry!
For more information, go to the Tour de Noël! It is the highest chalet that serves as the reception centre (information about the times and the entertainment, maps of the Artisan village, discount brochures etc.).

#WallonieTerredEau

Opening times

2019 Edition of Mons, Heart in the Snow:
- from Friday 6 December 2019 to Sunday 5 January 2020
For the skating rink and the chalets:
- from Sunday to Wednesday: 11:00 - 21:00
- from Thursday to Saterday: 11:00 - 22:00 (extended until midnight)
- 24 and 31 December: 11:00 - 16:00
- 25 December and 1 January: closed
A meeting with Father Christmas:
- at the kiosk or on a horse-drawn carriage, only during the weekend from 2 pm to 6 pm
Shops:
- open on Sunday 15 and 22 December