A 16-metre Christmas tree took its place on Bruges’ Burg Square on Monday, 9 November, becoming the tallest installed there in recent history. The arrival marks another step in preparations for the city’s winter festivities.
BrugesTime’s own photographs and video document the tree in its historic setting. At dusk, its undecorated branches stand against the fading sky, with the Belfry visible behind them. Warm streetlights illuminate the surrounding square as visitors pass by.
According to reporting by HLN, the tree came from a private garden in Olpe, Germany. It weighs approximately eight tonnes and stands one metre taller than last year’s tree. Workers cut it down on 8 November before transporting it to Bruges.
A crane lifted the tree into position, and crews carefully lowered its trunk into a prepared underground sleeve. Additional wedges helped secure it. Alderman for Public Space Franky Demon told HLN that the anchoring arrangement made installation smoother than last year.
The tree will remain without its festive lighting for a little longer. Crews are expected to add the lights roughly a week before the Christmas activities begin.
Elsewhere, a 13-metre tree is destined for Markt Square, where the wooden market cabins and pavilion are already taking shape. The city plans to install 247 Christmas trees throughout the centre and surrounding districts.
The preparations are scheduled to be ready by Friday, 20 November, ahead of the opening weekend. Beyond decorating the streets, the programme aims to create welcoming places for residents and visitors to share the festive season.
For now, BrugesTime’s images capture the transition: the tree has arrived, while its illuminated Christmas appearance is still to come.
Tree specifications and installation details: HLN, reporting by Bart Huysentruyt, published 9 November 2026.
