Winter in Tilburg: 7 merry things to do

So, you’ve found yourself in Tilburg this winter, a city just chock-full of things to do. In fact, spending winter in Tilburg can be a festive, whimsical time — and a welcome escape from the stress of the rest of the year! ⛄

From ice skating, wonderful winter shops (to get all that pepernoten for your family and friends!), and even some Christmas-themed karaoke, Tilburg has so much to offer. 

1. Hit the ice at Tilburg’s Winter Paradise

This winter, Tilburg is really pulling out all the stops. With what, you ask? A wonderful ice skating rink, full of those gezellige lights we all love so much. 😍

The Winter Paradise will be open this Christmas from December 2 to January 8, with the rink open daily from 10 AM to 11 PM. 

Unsteady on the ice? Grab a helpful penguin and attempt to make it a couple of steps (sorry, slides) away from the outer fencing. ⛸

2. Get in a last-minute Christmas shop at De Heuvelstraat

Oh no! Forgot to grab a gift for your ever-so-loving mother-in-law? You’re in luck, because De Heuvelstraat in Tilburg has just undergone a massive renovation, and is ready for all your shopping demands.

With a totally new shopping area and new restaurants, the re-opening of De Heuvelstraat is being celebrated with a festive touch. ☃

Plus, Tilburg has launched the new Emmapassage, which connects Frederikstraat to Pieter Vreedeplein, making it easier to wander, shop, and walk. 

And, along the Emmapassage is another one of Tilburg’s epic Christmas events: the Be Your Selfie Tour, where you can find lots of beautiful places to take selfies to really level up your Instagram feed. And plus, it’s all free of charge. 

Late to get out? You’re in luck because the shops on Dwaalgebied will be open later into the evening on both December 15 and December 22. 🌟

3. Visit the many wonderful museums of Tilburg

Tilburg has some of the Netherlands’ best museums. Contemporary art and textile history are just two examples of the kinds of intriguing things you can discover in the city. 

The TextielMuseum

When in Tilburg this Christmas, you must check out the TextielMuseum. Once the wool city of the Netherlands, this museum is very close to the history of Tilburg’s success as a city. 

Plus, with exhibitions you can’t miss, such as the Royal Embroidery exhibit, you’re sure to be entertained as you stay out of the cold. 

De Pont

A contemporary art museum based in a former spinning mill, the art collection at De Pont is sure to inspire this Winter. With a library and warm café to satisfy that hot chocolate craving, an afternoon at De Pont is a worthy way to spend your time. 

READ MORE | 5 top museums in Tilburg to excite and ignite your curiosity 

While you’re there, check out the temporary exhibit of Ragnar Kjartansson. 

Open from September 17, 2022 to January 29, 2023, this exhibit contains artwork across multiple platforms and types of media, all based on the theme of ‘Time Changes Everything’. 

4. Celebrate the Christmas season at the Festival of Lights 

Tilburg’s Festival of Lights will kick off on December 16 at St. Joseph’s Church! 

The church will be lit up in a magical array of bright colours; the perfect winter sight to find joy in the frosty evenings. 

5. Revisit childhood on the vintage carousel 

Get dizzy on the vintage carousel in Tilburg this Christmas. 

Located near the wonderful Winter Paradise on the Pieter Vreedeplein, the carousel will entertain the young and those of us who want a bit of festive fun. 

Hop aboard, choose a trusty stead, and take a trip down memory lane to childhood. 🎠

6. Check out a… living nativity? 

Yes, you heard that right. What else does Tilburg have to offer? 

A living nativity! Catch the recreation of the birth of Jesus with real sheep and real shepherds this Christmas. 🐏

Cuddle up with Mary and Joseph at Pieter Vreedeplein in Tilburg, and reflect on the year that has just passed. 

7. Take part in the annual Torches for Peace

An event that has been years in the running, this year’s Fakkels voor Vrede takes place on Christmas Eve. 

The annual walk-through of the city, with participants carrying lit torches, brings a warm Christmas spirit and is bound to make you feel connected before Christmas. 🕯

Tilburg’s full Winter Paradise schedule

Carousel and live nativity scenes aren’t the only activities to entertain yourself in Tilburg during the cold months.

There are also BBQ and Christmas markets, winter cycles, and even ugly Christmas jumper contests planned! ⛄

With so much to do in Tilburg this Christmas, you’re guaranteed to find something to entertain the whole family during your visit! 🎄

Will you be visiting Tilburg this winter? Tell us in a comment below! 👇