From 26th November to 31st December 2022

There’ll be plenty of magic at the Vrijthof this year too. Alongside the familiar Ferris wheel, the idyllic Alpine-inspired chalet or ‘Almhütte’, the 900 m2 covered ice rink, and the Christmas market, the Saint Servatius Basilica will be opening its doors for the first time this year during the winter event. In line with a fine local custom, visitors can light a candle and enjoy a moment of peace and tranquillity. Whispering tours for children (a Christmassy exploration of the basilica's many treasures), music, and Christmas stories are brought together magically in the fun at the Vrijthof and the time for reflection in the basilica.

Follow the romantic Magical Light Route

The enchanting light trail of the Magical Light Route takes you through various parts of the city centre: from the vibrant and trendy Wyck and modern Céramique to the industrial Sphinx Quarter and romantic Jeker Quarter. Planning to walk the entire route from start to finish? Then be prepared to be amazed by the many historical, cultural, and culinary treasures that Maastricht has to offer. This year's route has been expanded considerably. Several large stars are being added and the Sphinx Quarter is going all out with a truly impressive light art display in and around the Bassin harbour.

Enjoy the music

Maastricht will be dazzling visitors once again this year with its city-wide cultural programme. Well-known singers and bands will be in town during the month of December. Glennis Grace and Emma Heesters will be providing the musical backdrop for Magical Maastricht on 14 and 15 December 2019 in the Mosae Forum shopping centre. Their performances will be followed by a wealth of other musical treats. More than 100 groups will be holding free surprise concerts throughout the city centre.

André Rieu's Christmas concerts

Get into the Christmas spirit at one of André Rieu's magical Christmas concerts. MECC Maastricht will be transformed into a veritable winter wonderland. The ‘King of the Waltz’, his Johann Strauss Orchestra, dancers, a choir, and international soloists will be performing the most beautiful Christmas carols, romantic waltzes, and other wonderful songs from all over the world.

Stay a night in a romantic setting

Maastricht is a place to meet friends and enjoy winter. This is the perfect opportunity to spend the night - or linger a little longer. Spending the night in Maastricht is always a magical experience. After enjoying hot chocolate, delicious Limburg 'vlaai' (sweet tart) and other temptations during your visit to the Christmas market, a comfortable bed awaits you so that you can completely unwind. Have a lie-in before heading off to discover the city!

A fairy-tale programme

Like every year, the entire month is filled with inspiring activities, concerts, theatre shows, and opportunities to simply stroll through Maastricht. The popular route taking in nativity scenes is one of the treats on the winter agenda. Take this wonderful narrative stroll through the beautifully illuminated heart of Maastricht. And Christmas square, a quiet spot alongside the Meuse River, is a great place to meet old friends or make some new ones. Join a city walk led by a local and see places that even residents have yet to discover. In short, our winter to-do lists are once again packed with culture, art, innovation, and tradition.