In the last days of the year, every cycling enthusiast in Flanders (and also the Netherlands) knows that it’s time for one thing: the Christmas period in cyclocross, the most beautiful time in cyclocross where almost every day a cyclocross race is held. Who are the favorites for the most prominent races? Who is racing where, and what should I consider if I want to attend a cyclocross event? Cycling-Classics.com looks ahead with the Preview Christmas Period Cyclocross 2023!
The Christmas period, the most wonderful time of the year in cyclocross
Flanders breathes cyclocross through and through. And going to the cyclocross is an experience in itself. Liters of beer, large party tents where DJs create a lively atmosphere with pumping music, and of course, the necessary fry stands where you can score a delicious pack of fries, a Bicky Burger, or a boulet for a few vouchers. So, are you one of those Dutch folks who will be traveling to beautiful Flanders this Christmas period (Kerstperiode, like the real Flandriens are saying)? Then read on! If you’re reading this as a Flemish person, navigate especially to the Preview Christmas Period Cyclocross 2023 with our favorites and star distribution, and a preview of the most beautiful races.
The Christmas period is a special time for cyclocross in Flanders. Traditionally, during this time, almost every day sees a cyclocross race. Cyclocross enthusiasts flock to Flanders – the epicenter of cyclocross – so that they can catch multiple races in just a few days. It makes sense because in the last days of the year, the celebration is in full swing in Flanders.
The evening race in Diegem, where the Big Three had an epic battle under artificial lights last year. Or the Azencross in Loenhout – the ultimate party cyclocross where you feel like you’re in a true après-cross more reminiscent of Austria than Flanders.
Practical Tips for Attending Cyclocross Races during the Christmas Period
What’s useful for me to know when I attend a cyclocross race during the Christmas period? What are the practical tips for going to cyclocross? We can hear you thinking or saying. First of all, take a look at the website of the organizing race – often, the most important information is summarized there. From the schedule to entrance fees and, of course, a detailed analysis of the course. The first tip we have: buy a ticket in advance, it saves you from waiting in lines at the ticket sales on the respective race day. While in the past few weeks you could easily buy a ticket on location? Well, once the Big Three participate, it gets a lot busier, so it’s better to score your ticket online in advance!
Another very practical tip – especially for the Dutch folks who are used to contactless payments – bring cash! Cash is king, especially at the cyclocross, whether you want to quench your thirst or score a pack of fries! Reading the specific race previews on Cycling-Classics.com should also not go unnoticed. A tip from our editorial team, as this year, too, the major races will be accompanied by previews with favorites! Last but not least, realize that the cyclocross is one big party. A party that can rival the average tent party and is in a winter festival atmosphere. Enjoy, but behave! Spitting or throwing beer at the riders is out of the question and anything but respectful and downright antisocial, although it still happens. Enjoy the riders and let loose in the party tents aft`erward. Bring earplugs and party on! Oh, and, don’t wear your white sneakers!
Program for the Christmas Cyclocross Season 2023 featuring Mathieu van der Poel, Wout van Aert, and Thomas Pidcock
Saturday, December 23, 2023: World Cup Antwerp
Tuesday, December 26, 2023: World Cup Gavere
Saturday, December 30, 2023: World Cup Hulst (Netherlands)
Thursday, January 4, 2024: X²O Badkamers Trofee Koksijde
Sunday, January 7, 2024: World Cup Zonhoven
Full program for the Christmas Cyclocross Season 2023
Friday, December 22, 2023: Exact Cross Mol (Belgium) – featuring Mathieu van der Poel and Wout van Aert
Saturday, December 23, 2023: World Cup Antwerp (Belgium) – featuring Mathieu van der Poel, Wout van Aert, and Thomas Pidcock
Tuesday, December 26, 2023: World Cup Gavere (Belgium) – featuring Mathieu van der Poel, Wout van Aert, and Thomas Pidcock
Wednesday, December 27, 2023: Heusden-Zolder (Belgium) – Superprestige – featuring Wout van Aert
Thursday, December 28, 2023: Diegem (Belgium) – Superprestige – featuring Mathieu van der Poel
Friday, December 29, 2023: Loenhout (Belgium) – Exact Cross – featuring Mathieu van der Poel and Wout van Aert
Saturday, December 30, 2023: Hulst (Netherlands) – World Cup – featuring Mathieu van der Poel, Wout van Aert, and Thomas Pidcock
Monday, January 1, 2024: Baal (Belgium) – X²O Trophy – featuring Mathieu van der Poel and Wout van Aert
Thursday, January 4, 2024: Koksijde (Belgium) – X²O Trophy – featuring Mathieu van der Poel, Wout van Aert, and Thomas Pidcock
Saturday, January 6, 2024: Gullegem (Belgium) – standalone race
Sunday, January 7, 2024: World Cup Zonhoven (Belgium) – featuring Mathieu van der Poel, Wout van Aert, and Thomas Pidcock