Jelka i novogodišnja rasveta ispred Grand plasa Grand Place christmas tree and lights
Stari grad u vreme Božića
Old town during Christmas
M any people associate Brussels with its role as the political cen- tre of the EU, but as of recent- ly the Belgian capital has also shown its hidden assets and gained a repu- tation as one of Europe’s most visited cities, primarily thanks to its discreet charm of he- donism, which emanates from its many bars, restaurants, museums etc. And this fairy-tale image of the city is com - plemented during the time of Christmas and New Year’s holidays by its Winter Wonderland , with events in the centre of the Belgian capi - tal and four surrounding neighbourhoods last - ing until 4 th January. A Christmas bazaar, skating rink, gala pa - rade, merry-go-round, carrousel, concerts, open air shows, Christmas balls etc., and everything in festive decorations, calls for pleasure and enjoy - ment. The city authorities have placed in front of the Grand Place a 22-metre tall Christmas tree, a gift from Wallonia – one of Belgium’s three regions. They didn’t skimp on the decorations either, considering they would cover a distance of 1.3 kilometres if placed one after another. Gastronomic tourists will find their own special corner during the holidays, among the famous stands placed behind the Black Tow -
er, as Brusselites call the Church of St. Cathe - rine, where they will be able to sample all the delicacies of Belgium. This year will see more than 50 DJs in around a dozen of the most popular clubs countdown the minute before midnight. There will be music for all tastes – from house and electronica, via rock ‘n’ roll, jazz and hip-hop, to the techno parties for which Brussels is al - ready famous. All tickets can be bought in advance, online, but everyone recommends the Happy Brussels Party Pass , priced at €60, which can be used to gain entry to all parties in the city’s biggest clubs, like Fuse, Catclub, Wood, Bloody Louis, Mr Wong etc. After midnight, the same tick - et is valid for the famous Atomium and some other popular venues in Brussels. The city’s public transportation system will operate continuously until 5:30am on 1 st Janu - ary, ensuring everyone can return home safely from the celebrations. And the day after this joyous evening is sometimes the best time to travel somewhere and visit another nice place. Eurostar or Thalys trains will transport you at a speed of 300km/h to some unexplored Eu - ropean destination which you’ll reach in the blink of an eye.
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