This year for the first time, the entire city centre will be spectacularly transformed into a winter wonderland of Christmas cheer and winter fun – from the Central Station through the Wyck district, Kesselskade and the Jekerkwartier district to the Onze Lieve Vrouweplein, Markt, and Vrijthof squares. Be captivated by the playful lights on the Christmas decorations and Christmas trees in the streets of Maastricht, taste traditionally made regional products in the Jekerkwartier district, let your spirit be moved by the Onze Lieve Vrouweplein square and its glorious basilica, and take pleasure in the sight of children playing in the “Kids’ Christmas Paradise” on the Kesselskade (where their parents can also enjoy a breathtaking view over the Meuse river). Once again, the Vrijthof square will be home to a thrilling 1,000 m2 skating rink and a Christmas market where you will find one-of-a-kind gifts. Of course there will be plenty of oliebollen (traditional deep-fried doughnuts), warm waffles, and mulled wine.
Father Christmas may even stop by!
It’s the dream of many women to be able to shop to their heart’s content until late in the evening – to go searching for that perfect Christmas gift, and of course, a dazzling outfit for the festivities. Maastricht is doing justice to its title of the country’s best shopping city and will be opening its doors until eight in the evening during the four X-Maastricht Shopping Nights on Saturday 27 November, Saturday 4 December, Saturday 11 December, and Saturday 18 December 2010. The city centre will transform into a fantastically fun shopping centre in the Christmas theme, with lights, Christmas decorations, and all sorts of festive activities. All over the city, choirs will be singing carols at the top of their voices, and orchestral societies will be letting their instruments ring with holiday sounds. Of course there are plenty of pleasant cafés and restaurants where you will be able to relax and warm your hands with a delicious glass of hot mulled wine or a mug of hot chocolate.