Belgian children participated in the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony Dec. 11, 2019 in Chièvres, Belgium. The local school of Huissignies sang Christmas carols in French. (U.S. Army photo by Christophe Morel)

Benelux community celebrated Christmas time

CHIEVRES, Belgium -- It’s Christmas time, and the Benelux community already celebrated the most wonderful time of the year with Tree Lighting Ceremonies in Geilenkirchen on Dec. 3, at SHAPE on Dec. 5, and in Chièvres on Dec. 11. In Brussels, the community participated in the annual Winter Wonderland Fest and Dinner with Santa. All these events brought people together before the holiday break.

For the very first time, Belgian children participated in the Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony in Chièvres. The local school of Huissignies sang Christmas carols in French, a beautiful time of sharing and happiness, especially when the children sang the French version of the most famous reindeer of all, Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer. Children from the School Age Center also shared in the holiday spirit with their songs, including the English version of Rudolph’s song.

Santa’s arrival aboard a big red firetruck was the most popular moment in the event but the tree lighting itself also brought sparkles into the children eyes.

Before the crowd gathered in the Food court for some activities and photos with Santa, Col. Sean Hunt Kuester wished the audience an enjoyable and safe holiday season.
 

By Christophe Morel, USAG Benelux Public Affairs