An Atmospheric New Year without Fireworks
New Year’s Eve : Mechelen welcomed massive visitors to the Grote Markt on Tuesday and Wednesday for the traditional celebration of Old 2024 to New 2025. This year, the (low-noise) fireworks were missing as heavy gusts made the fireworks master and the city decide to cancel the spectacle for safety reasons. Despite this disappointment, the square flooded with revellers for a musical celebration that warmed the cold night.
@Verschueren Eddy
Musical Beats and Festive Vibes
From 11pm onwards, the Grote Markt turned into an open-air disco. Three local DJs got the crowd moving with a varied music mix of disco, funk, pop, and sing-alongs from Flanders and the Netherlands. The highlight, of course, was the countdown moment at midnight. Champagne corks popped, hugs were exchanged, and the party continued unabated in an atmosphere of connection and joy. Read more below the photos
@Verschueren Eddy
@Verschueren Eddy
@Verschueren Eddy
As a photographer and vlogger, I experienced the celebration up close. It was heartwarming to see how young and old came together to celebrate the transition to 2025. Special thanks to the young people who showed respect and kindness, even in the crowds – a positive note that, as a person over 65, I greatly appreciate.
@Verschueren Eddy
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Incidents and Challenges
Unfortunately, like other cities in Belgium, the festive night did not pass without incident. Emergency services cared for 18 people at the scene, three of whom were transferred to hospital. In addition, Police Zone Rivierenland registered more than 150 reports of nuisance, mainly due to fireworks and night noise. Additional intervention teams were deployed to control the situation.
Property damage was reported in Veemarkt, where a shop display case was smashed, and in Nekkerspoelstraat, where a bus stop was vandalised. The fire brigade had to intervene to clear glass and seal properties safely. More serious incidents occurred in Hanswijkdries and Willebroek, where illegal fireworks and Molotov cocktails were found. Here, police had to use pepper spray to disperse a group of about 50 youths. Fortunately, calm eventually returned.
A Look at 2025
With these events behind us, we look ahead to a new year full of opportunities and possibilities. How did you experience the transition to 2025? And what are your wishes for the new year? Let us know in the comments.
On behalf of me and my social media followers, I wish all Malinois a fantastic 2025, full of health, happiness and unforgettable moments!