The Grand-Place of Brussels welcomed the arrival of its 2025 Christmas tree early on Thursday morning, marking the official start of the city’s festive preparations.
Shortly after 6am on 20 November, a towering white spruce from Sint-Katelijne-Waver in Antwerp province was installed at the iconic square, where it will remain until 4 January 2026.
Standing at an impressive 20 metres tall and approximately 43 years old, this year’s Christmas tree brings both grandeur and symbolism to the heart of Brussels. Nurseryman Pierre Demesmaeker, who oversaw its selection and preparation, described the moment as deeply emotional despite years of experience in the field.
“Despite our experience, it is always a special moment. These trees are kind of like our children,” Demesmaeker told Belga News Agency.
He explained that he had been monitoring the tree for five years, ensuring it met the aesthetic and structural requirements necessary for safe transport and installation. “It is slightly narrower than its predecessor, which is more practical for transport,” he added, noting that its shape also lends itself beautifully to decoration.
The tree’s journey to Brussels took place under police escort, ensuring a smooth and secure passage through the city’s streets during the early morning hours. By sunrise, crews at the Grand-Place were already at work, using cranes and support structures to position the tree at the centre of the UNESCO-listed square.
The spruce will be officially illuminated for the first time at 6pm on Friday, 28 November, coinciding with the opening of Winter Wonders, Brussels’ annual holiday attraction that draws millions of visitors each year.
The lighting ceremony traditionally marks one of the most anticipated moments of the season, drawing families, tourists, and residents eager to witness the city’s transformation into a festive spectacle.
This year’s decorations promise a particularly distinctive look. Under the artistic direction of Belgian designer Jean-Paul Lespagnard, the 2025 Christmas tree will feature a combination of traditional motifs and contemporary elements. The City of Brussels said the concept emphasizes diversity, conviviality, and the cultural richness of the capital.
“Under the artistic direction of Jean-Paul Lespagnard, the Christmas tree will take on a new guise in 2025: it will become a link between tradition, creativity, and social engagement,” the city stated.
According to officials, the decorations were carefully designed to reflect Brussels’ unique identity, celebrating its multicultural communities while preserving the warmth of classic holiday aesthetics.
The tree will be accompanied by the traditional nativity scene, another seasonal highlight that draws visitors to the Grand-Place throughout December.
Together, the installations contribute to Winter Wonders’ immersive experience, which also includes a Christmas market, sound-and-light shows, an ice rink, and numerous cultural activities across the city centre.
In addition to its visual appeal, this year’s tree also carries an important message of sustainability and solidarity. After the holiday period concludes on 4 January, the spruce will be responsibly recycled, contributing to ecological efforts promoted by the city.
Furthermore, all custom decorations adorning the tree will be auctioned off, with proceeds benefiting the Brussels Food Banks.
“This way, the spirit of solidarity will continue,” the City of Brussels said, highlighting an initiative that combines festive celebration with meaningful community support at a time when many families face economic hardship.
Residents and visitors who cannot make it to the Grand-Place in person can still enjoy the view of the Christmas tree via the city’s official live stream, available at any time throughout the season. The broadcast offers a continuous glimpse of the illuminated square, capturing its charm from day to night.
As Brussels prepares to welcome thousands of visitors during the winter festivities, the arrival of the Christmas tree serves as a symbolic beginning.
For many, it marks the moment the city shifts into holiday mode—a period of celebration, reflection, and community spirit. With its blend of tradition, artistry, and charitable purpose, the 2025 Christmas tree stands as a vibrant centrepiece for a season rich with meaning.
