The long, dark winter nights can seem a bit grim at the best of times, not least with so much even gloomier news currently dominating the airwaves and news print.
What better time of year, then, for something a bit “magical” that seeks to bring a bit of much-needed cheer and goodwill?
If, like so many others, you feel in need of a seasonal pick-me-up, then look no further than a new festive spectacular now taking place on the outskirts of Brussels.
The “magical” event in question is appropriately called “Lanterna Magica” and is a part walk, part show experience that is currently lighting up the picturesque Domaine de La Hulpe estate and will continue to do so over the winter.
This most delightful of settings, a magnet for weekend walkers (and picnickers in summer) is currently festooned with lanterns, forest creatures and no end of fascinating nature scenes.
Set amidst the beautiful natural setting of one of the country’s best preserved estates and the always fantastic Foret de Soignes, Lanterna Magica is a 2.5km walking course animated by “dancers and actors” and all illuminated with more than 1,200 projectors and 20,000 LEDs.
This lovely festive fairy tale all makes for an unforgettable sensory and musical experience.
A spokesman for the organisers told this site, “The walk takes visitors through the woods and lets them admire the castle. It is a brand-new immersive trail that aims to plunge visitors into a dreamlike world where every corner of the park reveals sparkling light effects and enchanting projections.”
“In addition to all these new features, Lanterna Magica RTL offers an exceptional culinary experience in the majestic setting of the Château de La Hulpe on Friday and Saturday evenings.”
One of the most popular features is a brand new 200 m² ice rink, perfect for a fun time with family or friends (young and old). You don’t need a Lanterna Magica ticket for this as people can skate without visiting the rest of the village.
Ice skates are available for rent on-site (in sizes 32 to 46) while, for the little ones, there are children’s skates, skate chairs, and fun sliding figures. The rink is fully covered so you stay dry, no matter the weather.
It is also wheelchair accessible, and glide chairs are available upon request.
The synthetic rink is eco-friendly and described as revolutionary as it gives the sensation of skating on “real” ice while, at the same time, respecting the environment.
The rink costs €8 for one hour of skating (both children and adults).
The whole Lanterna Magica event is designed for all ages and lasts between 1h and 1h30. Online reservation is required, and pets must be kept on a leash.
Be warned: rush hour traffic can be heavy around the park and many areas are closed for parking nearby.
Several options are available, including paid car parks along with parking at La Hulpe station (2km from the entrance) at Ernest Solvay Street, La Hulpe. The parking fee must be paid on the spot, and a shuttle service will take you to the entrance of Lanterna Magica.
There are also some free parking spaces on these public roads:
- Brussels Road (between the Ernest roundabout and the Adèle roundabout)
- Ernest Solvay Avenue (between the Ernest roundabout and the Sport Center Swift)
- Gris Moulin Street
- Center of La Hulpe
- Gates open at 5.30pm every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. The event continues until Sunday, 26 January 2025
Comments
5 responses to “Winter Wonders in the Enchanting Setting of La Hulpe”
-
Oh, a “magical” stroll through the woods with more lights than a Brussels Christmas market? Brilliant! Just what we need to distract us from the endless drudgery of winter and the delightful chaos of traffic jams. 🤦♂️✨
-
Only in La Hulpe would a 2.5km walk become a fairy-tale trek with 20,000 LEDs just to distract us from our gloomy winter woes. €8 for an eco-friendly ice rink? Might as well charge me for the “fresh air” while you’re at it! 😂
-
Oh joy, nothing says “European winter wonderland” like dodging traffic for a walk illuminated by 20,000 LEDs while navigating a synthetic ice rink – because who wouldn’t want to skate on eco-friendly plastic while wearing their best winter coat and a look of utter bewilderment? 😅✨
-
Looks like La Hulpe’s trying to turn winter blues into a fairy tale — because nothing says “enchanting” like dodging traffic and paying for parking just to see some LEDs in the woods. 🦌✨ Who knew magic came with a side of bureaucracy? 😂
-
“Ah, nothing screams ‘let’s celebrate winter’ quite like a 2.5km stroll through the woods with 20,000 LEDs to remind you of your electric bill—cheers to a magical evening! 🎉 Just remember to pack your patience for the traffic, or else you might miss the enchantment altogether! 😅”
Last News
Von der Leyen Acknowledges ‘Technical Problems’ with New EU Airport Border Checks
“There’s still quite a lot of work to do to have these technical issues solved together with the member states,” von der Leyen stated.
These comments represent a change i
Fiserv and BP Alert US Retailers Amid Intensified FDA Vape Enforcement
Washington, D.C., July 03, 2026 – Eurotoday Newspaper — FDA vape enforcement is intensifying across the United States after Fiserv and major service station operators, including BP, warned convenience stores about the risks of selling unauthorized vaping products. The industry alert comes as regulators continue efforts to remove illegal vape devices from the retail market and encourage businesse
The Battle for Pink Gold: Norway Drills Through a Mountain
When a nation embarks on constructing a tunnel through a mountain to expedite ships’ journey to the sea, it’s more than an infrastructure project—it’s a reflection of the influence of a multi-billion dollar industry.
This is currently unfolding in Norway, where the world’s first ship tunnel is being built through the Stad Peninsula, allowing cargo ships to bypass some of
EU Sanctions Individuals Responsible for Alexei Navalny Poisoning
“The EU remains fully committed to countering the proliferation and use of chemical weapons,” stated the Council. The sanctions consist of an asset freeze and a travel ban to the EU.
Navalny, consider
GFL Environmental Considers Going Private Amid Buyout Interest
Sarhan Basem is Eurotoday’s Senior Correspondent to the European Parliament. With a Bachelor’s degree in English Literature, Sarhan brings a unique blend of linguistic finesse and analytical prowess to his reporting. Specializing in foreign affairs, human rights, civil liberties, and security issues, he delves deep into the intricacies of global politics to provide insightful comment
Rapport de mi-année sur l’exécution du
Press ReleaseThis article is based on a press release or official communication from Wire News Service. The European Times republishes it as a public service.
Laurent-PerrierSociété anonyme à Directoire et Conseil de Surveillanceau capital de 22.594.271,80 eurosSiège Social : 32, avenue de Champagne 51150 Tours-sur-MarneRCS Reims B 335 680 096
SEMI-ANNUAL UPDATE
Release Establishing the Semi-A
Moldova’s Prime Minister Steps Down Amid Scandal Series
Last month, Dumitru Vangeli, head of the MOLDATSA civil aviation safety agency, was dismissed after it was found that his university diploma and pilot’s license were forged. On Thursday, Agriculture Ministry State Secretary Tatiana Nistorică was detained on bribery susp
Purchasing an Existing UK Company vs. Forming a New One
London, July 02, 2026 – Eurotoday Newspaper — Buy an Existing UK Company is becoming an increasingly popular option for entrepreneurs and overseas investors looking to begin trading quickly in the United Kingdom. Rather than completing the incorporation process from scratch, many business owners choose to purchase an already registered company, commonly known as a shelf company, allowing them to
President Uchtdorf Hosts Swiss President at Church Headquarters
Press ReleaseThis article is based on a press release or official communication. The European Times republishes it as a public service.
President Dieter F. Uchtdorf, Acting President of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, welcomed the President of the Swiss Confederation to the Church’s global headquarters in Salt Lake City, Utah, on Tuesday, Ju
Leave a Reply