Across the country, each region celebrates the holiday season in its own way. Whether it’s through food, crafts, or decorations.
Here’s your guide to the most captivating Christmas markets in France, and what to enjoy while you’re there.
Strasbourg Christmas Market
Strasbourg hosts one of Europe’s oldest Christmas markets, dating back to 1570.
Known locally as Christkindelsmärik, the Strasbourg Christmas Market features over 300 wooden chalets spread across 11 city squares. Visitors can enjoy Alsatian specialities, handcrafted ornaments, and a giant Christmas tree in Place Kléber. The market’s longevity and scale have earned Strasbourg its official title of Capital of Christmas.
Colmar Christmas Market
Famous for its half-timbered houses and canals, Colmar offers one of the most picturesque backdrops in France. Strolling through its cobblestone streets feels like stepping into a fairy tale, with colorful facades, flower-decked bridges, and charming houses at every turn.
Mulhouse Christmas Market
Mulhouse Christmas Market celebrates the city’s textile heritage with unique festive fabrics.
Every year, the town designs a new “Christmas fabric” used to decorate stalls and public spaces, a nod to its 18th-century weaving industry. Visitors can browse Alsatian crafts, sweets, and local wines.
Reims Christmas Market
Reims Christmas Market happens every year in front of its beautiful UNESCO-listed Gothic cathedral.
With over 140 chalets, visitors can sample local delicacies such as biscuits roses and enjoy light shows projected onto the Gothic cathedral façade.
Lyon Christmas Market
The Christmas season in Lyon is illuminated by the world-famous Fête des Lumières (Festival of Lights), when artists from around the world transform the city’s landmarks with spectacular light installations. The event attracts millions of visitors each year and traces its origins back to 1852.
What to eat at a French Christmas Market
Christmas markets in France are culinary destinations in their own, offering warm comfort food and regional treats.
Here are a few essentials you shouldn’t miss:
- Panettone: Though Italian in origin, this brioche-like fruit bread has become a holiday staple.
- Vin chaud (wine): Red wine simmered with cinnamon, cloves, and citrus. Each region has its own twist. For example, in Strasbourg or Colmar (Alsace region), it is often made with local Pinot Noir.
- Bredele: Alsatian Christmas cookies, baked in dozens of varieties since the 14th century.
- Marrons chauds (roasted chestnuts): Sold in paper cones, these warm chestnuts are the signature scent of Christmas markets.
- Pain d’épices (gingerbread): Traditionally baked in Dijon and Reims, this honey-based spice bread is a must.
- Crêpes and waffles: Found everywhere, these are perfect street treats.
What to buy at a French Christmas Market
Christmas markets in France showcase regional craftsmanship and products you won’t find anywhere else.
If you’re shopping for meaningful souvenirs or gifts, here’s what to look for:
- Artisan crafts: Pottery, jewellery, candles, soaps, and wooden toys crafted by local artisans. Look for products labelled Made in France.
- Santons: In Provence, these small clay figurines depict the Nativity, the biblical story of the birth of Jesus Christ in Bethlehem.
- Textiles: Scarves, tablecloths, and linens often feature motifs inspired by regional patterns, especially in Alsace and Brittany.
- Gourmet specialties: Honey, jams, truffle oil, and liqueurs make excellent gifts for food lovers. Look for products with Label Rouge or AOP certifications for the best quality!
- Christmas decorations: Hand-blown glass ornaments and wooden carvings are particularly popular.
Want to explore more festive traditions? Visit our Go! Go! France blog for more articles on Christmas markets, French holiday foods, and seasonal celebrations across France.
