Winterlights festival offers dazzling line-up

(JB) Luxembourg is to host the world's biggest travelling nativity scene this advent as part of its dazzling array of events and shows.

The crib display, dubbed Noel en Provence, is to take up its new, temporary home at the Sacré-Coeur Church from November 26. Some 300 figurines and automated models will feature in the novelty presentation, which was created by the most renowned crib makers in Provence, France.

Visitors to the display are urged to donate funds, which this year will go to benefit underprivileged people in Luxembourg by subsidising the Den Cent Buttek association.

Christmas markets

But residents won't have to wait until Saturday to get into the festive spirit. From Friday November 25, the Christmas Market in Place d'Armes will be officially opened at 11am by Sapés the Christmas tree and city representatives. A St Nicolas Market will then be opened at 5pm in Place de Paris near the central railway station.

St Nicolas Parade

The next highlight will then take place on December 4 when the St Nicolas parade takes to the streets. With St Nicolas himself travelling through the capital to distribute good cheer among residents and children, the parade is an unmissable event for everyone. It begins at 2pm with the arrival of St Nicolas' train at the central railway station.

Free concerts

From this weekend onwards, residents and visitors will have every opportunity to get into the festive swing thanks to a series of free concerts to be staged in Place d'Armes and in other venues around the city.

From November 25 right up until December 31, music fans will be able to hear choral music, blues, fanfares and jazz at the sparkling outdoor venue. Among the line-up will be choirs from St George's school (December 9, 6pm) and the International School of Luxembourg (December 11, 2pm).

To view the full line-up, visit www.lcto.lu

Christmas Circus

Finally, a great coup for this year's line-up will be the Advent Circus, hosted in The Big Top at the Glacis, in Limpertsberg.

Here spectators can be entertained by mime artists, performing comic and touching feats suitable for all ages. Performances begin December 18. For information, visit www.luxemburger-adventscircus.eu Tickets can be obtained from www.luxembourgticket.lu