Nuts Weekend 2026: Bastogne remembers, December 11–13
Every December, Bastogne marks the anniversary of the siege with a weekend of ceremonies, parades and reenactments. For many American visitors, it is the best time to come.
Updated September 27, 2026 · By the info-lux newsroom, Bastogne
The 2026 Nuts Weekend takes place Friday, December 11 to Sunday, December 13, 2026 and marks the 82nd anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge. The usual program includes:
- a patriotic parade on the Grand-Rue;
- wreath-layings at the Patton and McAuliffe memorials;
- the nut throw from the City Hall balcony;
- the Perimeter March, with 7, 14 and 21 km routes;
- a vintage military vehicle parade;
- free activities at the Bastogne War Museum;
- a Christmas village.
Book your hotel now.
What happens during the weekend
The detailed 2026 program will be published by the City of Bastogne in the fall. Based on the 2025 edition, which we covered on site, expect:
Friday
- Tours "in the footsteps of our liberators" aboard vintage military vehicles.
- Opening events at the museums; the Christmas village opens in the town center.
Saturday
- The Perimeter March, organized by the City and the Kiwanis club, with routes of 7, 14 and 21 km (4, 9 and 13 miles) along the 1944 defensive perimeter. In 2025, the proceeds went to Honor Flight, the veterans' association.
- In the afternoon, the patriotic parade on the Grand-Rue and wreath-layings at the Patton and McAuliffe memorials.
- The famous nut throw from the balcony of City Hall, in honor of McAuliffe's "NUTS!"
- In the evening, a 1940s swing ball.
Sunday
- A remembrance Mass, then the big parade of military vehicles on the Grand-Rue, followed by a static display.
- Concert at St. Peter's Church.
All weekend
- Bastogne War Museum: free activities, talks and book fair (the immersive tour stays paid), guided tours of the Bois Jacques, and events at the Bastogne War Rooms.
- Bastogne Barracks: special open weekend with armored vehicle demonstrations.
- 101st Airborne Museum: ceremonies, book signings, militaria fair and period concerts.
Tips for American visitors
- Lodging sells out. Book as early as possible, or stay in Houffalize, La Roche or Luxembourg City (see where to stay).
- It is cold: expect temperatures around freezing and possibly snow. Dress in layers and wear waterproof boots.
- Arrive early for the Saturday parade and the nut throw. The Grand-Rue gets crowded.
- Veterans and their families are honored guests. If you are one, let the organizers or museums know in advance.
Practical information
| Dates | Friday, December 11 – Sunday, December 13, 2026 |
|---|---|
| Edition | 82nd anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge |
| Where | Downtown Bastogne (Grand-Rue, McAuliffe Square, City Hall), Bastogne War Museum, War Rooms, Barracks, 101st Airborne Museum, Bois Jacques |
| Price | Street events free; some museum activities paid |
| Official program | City of Bastogne and Bastogne War Museum websites (published in the fall) |
Frequently asked questions
When is the Nuts Weekend 2026?
From Friday, December 11 to Sunday, December 13, 2026, in Bastogne, Belgium. It marks the 82nd anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge.
Why do they throw nuts in Bastogne?
In memory of Brig. Gen. Anthony McAuliffe's one-word reply, "NUTS!", to the German demand for surrender on December 22, 1944. Nuts are thrown from the balcony of Bastogne City Hall during the Saturday festivities.
Is the Nuts Weekend free?
The parades, ceremonies and street events are free. Some museum activities and the Perimeter March have a fee.
Where should I stay for the Nuts Weekend?
Book a hotel in Bastogne months ahead. If it is full, stay in Houffalize, La Roche-en-Ardenne, Arlon or Luxembourg City, all within an hour's drive.
Sources: City of Bastogne, Bastogne War Museum (Nuts Week-End 2026 page), Bastogne Barracks, info-lux coverage of the 2025 Nuts Weekend. Opening hours and prices change: check the official website before your visit. Written in English by the info-lux newsroom, independent regional news media based in the Belgian province of Luxembourg.