New Year's Eve
Historical Context
New Year's Eve falls on 31 December every year and is not an official public holiday. Many employers allow early closing, but there is no legal obligation.
New Year's Eve on 31 December is the last day of the year and marks the transition into the new year. The tradition of celebrating the turn of the year dates back to antiquity and has been observed in various ways by many cultures. New Year's Eve is a popular celebration enjoyed both at home and in public.
Belgian families and friends gather on 31 December for a festive dinner or a house party. At midnight, fireworks and champagne toast the new year. Cities such as Brussels, Antwerp, Ghent and Liège organise large public New Year celebrations with light shows and fireworks displays.
Regional Traditions
Brussels
The New Year event on the Grand Place attracts over 50,000 visitors each year. A spectacular light and fireworks show is counted down from midnight, followed by DJ sets and performances into the early hours.
Antwerp
The New Year celebration near the MAS on the Scheldt is growing each year. Thousands gather along the quays for the countdown and a fireworks or drone show over the water.
Bruges
Thousands gather on 't Zand Square for the countdown, followed by a speech from the mayor and a laser show above the medieval city centre.
Wallonia
New Year's Eve dinner in Walloon families revolves around oysters, charcuterie and champagne. The celebration tends to be more intimate and family-focused compared to the large city events in Flanders.
Antwerp Kempen
In more than 16 Kempen municipalities, children go door-to-door on New Year's Eve morning for "Nieuwjaarke Zoete". They carry a colourful singing bag around their neck and sing: "Nieuwjaarke zoete, ons varken heeft vier voeten." Coordinated by Kempens Karakter.
Tessenderlo
New Year singing in Tessenderlo is recognised Flemish Intangible Cultural Heritage. On the morning of 31 December, children aged 4 to 12 go door-to-door with a purse around their neck to collect sweets and fruit. The tradition dates back to at least the 17th century.
Pajottenland
In Galmaarden, Tollembeek and Vollezele, children shout "Gosjdieël!" door-to-door on New Year's Eve morning, a dialect word for "Godsdeel" (God's share). The tradition had nearly died out but was revived around 2015. Recognised Flemish Cultural Heritage.