Neem je wishlist mee en verruil Ostend voor een dagje uit naar een van deze magische kerstmarkten in de omgeving. Naast een oneindig aanbod aan bijzondere cadeautjes, kun je er ook snoepen van allerlei feestelijke lekkernijen. Smul, shop en snuffel rond.
Christmas Market & ice rink 2026
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From late November to early January, the centre of Ostend turns into a wintry Christmas market spread over two squares, with atmospheric chalets, a carousel and a covered skating rink with 600m² of real ice.
What can you expect at the Christmas market in Ostend?
The Wapenplein and the Sint-Petrus-en-Paulusplein are about a seven minute walk apart and each has its own atmosphere.
- Wapenplein: Around the bandstand on the Wapenplein you will find an enchanting carousel, rides for children, winter terraces and chalets with food, drinks and warm accessories such as scarves, hats and gloves.
- Sint-Petrus-en-Paulusplein: At the foot of the St. Peter and Paul Church you will find the large covered skating rink, Chalet Paulette and a programme of children's entertainment.
- Food and drink: More than 25 stallholders serve warm pretzels, fries, baked camembert, shrimp croquettes and flammkuchen, along with mulled wine, a cocktail or a glass of bubbly.
- Free entry: The Christmas market itself is free to visit; you only need a ticket for the skating rink and some of the rides.
Ice skating on the Sint-Petrus-en-Paulusplein
The covered rink has 600m² of real ice, so you can enjoy skating even when it is wet and windy.
- Skating rink opening hours: The skating rink is open daily from 11:00 to 22:00.
- Unlimited skating: With one ticket you can skate for as long as you like, as long as you do not leave the rink.
- Skate hire: No skates of your own? You can hire them on site; booking ahead is only required for schools, clubs and large groups.
Practical information
Both squares are in the city centre, within walking distance of the railway station.
- Christmas market opening hours: The Christmas market is open daily from 11:00 to 22:00 and until 23:00 at weekends; different hours may apply on public holidays.
- Getting there: It is best to come by train, tram or bus; if you come by car, park in one of the public car parks in and around the centre.
- Accessibility: Both squares are accessible for wheelchair users and dogs on a lead are welcome.
- Programme: The latest programme per square and per week can be found on the Kerstmarkt Oostende website.
More winter fun in Ostend
Combine your visit to the Christmas market with other winter activities in the city.
- New Year's Eve: At midnight the sky above the sea lights up during the New Year's Eve fireworks in Ostend.
- Winter walk: After the Christmas market, take a stroll along the wintry beach and through the illuminated shopping streets.
When
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Where
Wapenplein en Sint-Petrus-en-Paulusplein, Oostende
Wapenplein en Sint-Petrus-en-Paulusplein, Oostende
Display Christmas Market & ice rink