Happy New Year to our dear children, families, and readers – if you're looking to beat the post-holiday blues, explore this article for some inspiration.

Filled with ideas for short trips and weekend escapes, this article offers memorable experiences surrounded by art, enchanting stories, acrobatics, music, and more to kick off the year with joy. The trip ideas combine shows and events that you will not probably want to miss.

1. Visit the Mundo Pixar exhibition in Brussels (starting 12 March)

Are you and your children fans of Toy Story, Finding Nemo, Inside Out, Cars, or other Pixar classics? If so, get ready for an unforgettable experience as the highly anticipated Mundo Pixar exhibition arrives in Brussels!

Brussels is always a great choice for a weekend getaway, offering family-friendly venues, museums, and unique experiences. Why not plan a memorable escape to the Belgian capital while enjoying this magical Pixar adventure?
Having already captivated visitors in other locations, the exhibition is now just a short trip from Luxembourg – so don’t miss your chance! I’ll definitely be taking the kids myself.

What to expect:

Explore life-size recreations of iconic movie sets and immerse yourself in Pixar's enchanting worlds – perfect for photo ops and lasting memories!

Practical Information:

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© mundopixar.com

2. Cirque du Soleil in Brussels, Knokke-Heist, Cologne, or the Hague

The iconic Cirque du Soleil has announced its 2025 schedule, featuring shows in cities conveniently close to Luxembourg – ideal for weekend getaways!

Programme highlights:

  • Alegría

Location: Under the Big Top, Brussels Expo (next to ING Arena), Brussels, Belgium
Dates: 12 September–19 October

  • Alegría

Location: Under the Big Top, Natiënlaan, Knokke-Heist, Belgium
Dates: 25 July–24 August

  • KURIOS – Cabinet of Curiosities

Location: Under the Big Top, Malieveld, The Hague, Netherlands
Dates: 23 October–7 December

  • Corteo

Location: Lanxess Arena, Cologne, Germany
Dates: 21–25 May

For full details, visit: Shows in Brussels | Cirque du Soleil

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© cirquedusoleil.com/alegria

3. Phantom of the Opera in Antwerp from 6 February–2 March

The Phantom of the Opera is arriving in Antwerp, brought to you by the Broadway Entertainment Group, the same team that recently brought The Little Prince to Luxembourg.

The show will be performed in English, making it accessible for a wide audience.

Antwerp is an incredible destination for a family weekend getaway, offering a variety of family-friendly experiences. If you have time, don't miss the Chocolate Nation immersive experience – an interactive museum that's one of the best we've experienced with the family, showcasing the rich history of Belgian chocolate.

For more details on The Phantom of the Opera: The Phantom Of The Opera | Tickets | Stadsschouwburg Antwerpen

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© stadsschouwburg-antwerpen.be

4. Introducing children to the magical world of Opera in Liège

The Opéra Royal de Wallonie in Liège offers a wonderful opportunity to introduce children to the enchanting world of opera. The programme includes two exceptional productions:

Tristan and Isolde from 28 January–8 February, and Guillaume Tell from 12–30 March.

To find more family-friendly options, simply select "jeune public" in your search: Events Archive - Opéra Royal de Wallonie-Liège (operaliege.be)

5. Shopping and The Nutcracker Ballet in Trier on 8 February

As Germany's oldest city, Trier always has its charm, and why not visit on 8 February to enjoy both some shopping and a performance of The Nutcracker at Trier Arena? This timeless ballet captivates both young and old, making it a must-see experience.

For more details, visit: Event | Nussknacker.

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© eventim.de

6. Activities and Swan Lake Ballet in Amnéville on 14 February

Celebrate Valentine's Day with the kids in Amnéville by enjoying a classic ballet performance of Swan Lake on 14 February. Why not extend your stay into the weekend, coinciding with the start of Luxembourg's school holidays, to enjoy a variety of activities such as skiing, ice skating, swimming, and more?

7. Lego Expo in Liège on 9 March

Lego fans won't want to miss this must-see expo in Liège! Spread over 400sq m, it features incredible displays and six interactive workshops where children can play and learn with Lego and Lego Duplo for younger ones. The theme focuses on the exploration of the universe and the moon, making it an unforgettable experience.

For more details, visit: Expo Lego - Vers la lune et au-delà.

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© europaexpo.be

8. The Carnival of the Animals by Luc Petit in Tournai on 7–9 March

A must-see show in Tournai! Tournai is high on my list this year as one of Belgium's most captivating family-friendly cities. If you're planning to visit, why not combine it with this magical performance? The Carnival of the Animals will feature over 40 artists, including musicians, soloists from the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra of Liège, dancers, and acrobats, all set to enchant both you and the children.

For more information, visit: Le Carnaval des animaux.

I hope this list sparks your excitement for wonderful some moments with the kids. Stay tuned for more ideas to celebrate the carnival season!

And as always:
Enjoy and Let’z TravelmatKanner!