From 22 November until 5 January the Bruges Festival, a festival of ice and snow sculpture, takes place. A good opportunity to go to Bruges for a weekend for example, before or after the Christmas holidays.
Artists from all over the world create beautiful statues from ice and snow, inspired by Disney's accounts (this year the film The Snow Queen is in the spotlight). Indeed, about thirty professional sculptors from 12 different countries will gather for this event and sculpt more than 50 statues.
The sculptures are very beautiful and detailed. There is even an ice castle that you can climb, after which an ice slide will bring you back to the ground. If you are thirsty, you can have a drink at the Ice Bar. Wear warm clothes as it is quite cold inside (plus or minus 6 degrees). The festival is located on the Place de la Gare and is therefore easily accessible (think of the train). Tickets are 15€ for an adult (discounts for groups, children, etc... It's free for children under 3 years old).
You can take advantage of your visit to go to the Christmas Market. Bruges does not have a huge one, but it is very cosy. Next to it is an ice rink on the Market Square, just opposite the town hall. There is also a second, smaller market on the Simon Stevin square. The smell of hot chocolate and food is irresistible. The Christmas markets are open until December 31st.
Information about the Bruges Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival 2013:
Address: Station Square - 8000 Bruges
The entrance fee per person is displayed at the cash desk:
- Children from 4 to 11 years old : 11, 00€.
- Group less than 20 people: 9,00€.
- Students & seniors 60 years old and over: 13,00€.
- Group more than 20 people: 11, 00€.
- The disabled and accompanying persons: 13, 00€.
- Adults: 15, 00€.
- Group of more than 20 adults: 13, 00€.
Free access for children up to 3 years old.
You can also book online on this website (1.5€ extra): Bruges Festival
