Christmas holiday 2025
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Christmas holiday
The christmas holiday 2025 runs from 20 December to 4 January.
The Christmas break covers roughly two weeks between late December and early January. It is a magical period shaped by the festive traditions of the Grand Duchy.
Kleeschen (Saint Nicholas) already visits on 6 December, but the festive spirit extends well beyond that date. The streets of Luxembourg City centre are decorated with lights and artistic installations that create a warm atmosphere.
Families gather to bake seasonal specialities such as Boxemännercher, small brioche figures that are part of the local Christmas tradition. It is also a popular time for cultural outings to the country's many theatres and concert halls.
Activities during the christmas holiday
The Winterlights festival transforms Luxembourg City with Christmas markets and fairy-tale lighting. The open-air ice rink on Place Guillaume II attracts visitors of all ages.
Families also enjoy the cross-border Christmas markets in Trier and Metz, both easily reachable by train. Market stalls serve local specialities like Glühwäin (mulled wine) and Gromperekichelcher (potato fritters).
The Mudam museum often runs creative workshops for children during the festive season. Beyond the capital, smaller towns such as Echternach and Vianden host their own Christmas markets in a more intimate setting.
Practical info about the christmas holiday
Many shops have reduced hours between Christmas and New Year. The Christmas markets typically close on 24 December.
Free public transport across the country makes getting around during the holidays convenient. The 25th and 26th of December are official public holidays, as is 1 January.
Many restaurants and cafes in the city centre close between 24 and 26 December, so booking ahead is advisable. Maisons relais offer reduced service during this period, with occasional closures around the public holidays.
Did you know this about the christmas holiday?
Nearly 47% of the population of Luxembourg holds a foreign nationality. This diversity means that Christmas traditions from dozens of different countries are celebrated throughout the country, creating a uniquely multicultural festive atmosphere.
The Kleeschen tradition is especially important for Luxembourgish children: Saint Nicholas, accompanied by the Houseker, hands out sweets and gifts on 6 December. The Grand Duchy is home to more than 170 nationalities, making it one of the most cosmopolitan countries in Europe.
Boxemännercher, small brioche figures shaped like people, are a seasonal treat found almost exclusively in Luxembourg and a few neighbouring areas.