Christmas Markets in France 2024

The tradition of Christmas markets in France stretches back centuries, rooted in the festive spirit of Advent. Each year, towns and cities across the country transform into enchanting winter wonderlands, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in a unique cultural experience. These markets offer a delightful blend of holiday cheer, artisanal crafts, and delicious seasonal treats, creating an atmosphere that captures the essence of the festive season. From the twinkling lights to the rich aromas of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts, Christmas markets embody the heart of French holiday celebrations.

Top Christmas Markets in France 2024

Strasbourg Christmas Market

Dates: November 27 – December 24, 2024

Strasbourg, known as the “Capital of Christmas,” offers an experience filled with holiday magic. As one of the oldest and most famous Christmas markets in Europe, it combines history, culture, and festive cheer. Located around the Strasbourg Cathedral, visitors can wander through over 300 stalls, exploring handcrafted gifts and indulging in delicious local specialties.

Key highlights include:

• Over 300 stalls offering a variety of artisanal goods and holiday decorations.
• The Grand Christmas Tree at Place Kléber.
• Traditional Alsatian food such as pretzels, spiced breads, and mulled wine.
• Cultural performances, including carol singing and light shows.

Strasbourg’s Christmas market perfectly blends historical charm with festive spirit, making it an ideal destination for anyone seeking holiday magic.

Colmar Christmas Market

Dates: November 26 – December 29, 2024

The quaint town of Colmar transforms into a fairytale setting during the Christmas season. The market spans five different themed areas across the town, allowing visitors to enjoy local delicacies, festive crafts, and picturesque surroundings.

Notable features:

• Five distinct market areas, each offering a unique atmosphere and range of products.
• Beautifully lit streets with festive lights, enhancing the enchanting experience.
• Traditional Alsatian foods such as spiced wine and bredele cookies.
• Handmade crafts from local artisans, ideal for finding unique gifts.

Colmar’s charming architecture, combined with the festive glow of the market, makes this town a must-visit during the holiday season.

Reims Christmas Market

Dates: November 24 – December 24, 2024

Reims showcases its historical heritage and holiday festivities against the majestic backdrop of the Reims Cathedral. Renowned for its champagne, the market is a feast for the senses, offering delectable food, artisanal gifts, and holiday joy.

What to experience in Reims:

• Champagne tastings and regional wines unique to the area.
• Gourmet food stalls presenting cheeses, cured meats, and other festive treats.
• Handcrafted gifts including jewelry, toys, and decorations.
• Lively performances featuring choirs and musicians, enhancing the festive atmosphere.

Reims’ Christmas market beautifully combines fine French craftsmanship with holiday cheer, making it an enchanting destination for food lovers and festive enthusiasts alike.

Annecy Christmas Market

Dates: November 23, 2024 – January 4, 2025

Nestled in the French Alps, the Annecy Christmas market is set against stunning mountain views and a charming old town ambiance. Visitors can savor traditional alpine dishes, browse craft stalls, and enjoy ice skating near the lake.

Highlights include:

• Scenic mountain backdrop and views of Lake Annecy.
• Traditional Savoyard dishes like tartiflette and fondue.
• Ice skating rink and family-friendly activities.
• Local crafts and handmade gifts, perfect for holiday shopping.

Annecy’s blend of alpine beauty and festive charm creates a magical winter getaway.

Paris – Tuileries Garden Christmas Market

Dates: November 16, 2024 – January 1, 2025

Located in the heart of Paris, the Tuileries Garden (Jardin des Tuileries) hosts one of the city’s most cherished Christmas markets. With its picturesque setting, this market offers a variety of attractions, from gourmet food stalls to exciting rides.

What to enjoy:

• Ice skating rink for both children and adults.
• Amusement rides, including a Ferris wheel and carousel.
• Seasonal French delicacies such as crepes, hot chocolate, and roasted chestnuts.
• Handmade gifts from local artisans, ideal for Christmas shopping.

The Tuileries Garden market is a must-visit for anyone wishing to experience the magic of Christmas in Paris, providing plenty of entertainment for both locals and tourists.

Bordeaux Christmas Market

Dates: November 29 – December 29, 2024

The historic city of Bordeaux transforms into a vibrant holiday destination during the Christmas season. The market, located in the city center, is surrounded by Bordeaux’s elegant architecture. Visitors can enjoy a diverse range of local crafts and gourmet foods, sampling the finest regional wines and festive treats.

Key attractions include:

• Local crafts and handmade gifts from talented artisans.
• Gourmet food stalls featuring regional delicacies like foie gras, oysters, and Bordeaux wines.
• Twinkling lights and live music performances, creating a magical holiday ambiance.
• Festive wine tastings that celebrate Bordeaux’s world-renowned wine heritage.

Bordeaux’s rich culinary traditions and sophisticated surroundings make its Christmas market a welcoming destination for holiday travelers.

Lyon Christmas Market

Dates: November 30 – December 31, 2024

As the gastronomic capital of France, Lyon showcases its culinary excellence at the Christmas market held in Place Carnot. Visitors can indulge in a variety of Lyonnaise delicacies and artisanal products while soaking up the festive atmosphere.

What to explore:

• Traditional Lyonnaise specialties such as pralines, roasted chestnuts, and quenelles.
• Unique artisanal crafts and gifts, ideal for holiday shopping.
• Beautiful festive light displays throughout the market.
• Live traditional Christmas music and street performances that elevate the festive mood.

The Lyon Christmas market masterfully combines the city’s rich culinary heritage with the warmth and joy of the holiday season, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts.

Metz Christmas Market

Dates: November 24 – December 30, 2024

Nestled beneath the stunning Saint-Etienne Cathedral, Metz offers a Christmas market infused with historical charm and festive spirit. Known for its exquisite decorations, local crafts, and seasonal culinary delights, the market is a feast for the senses.

Highlights include:

• Captivating light shows and illuminations adorning the Cathedral and market.
• Unique artisanal gifts and handcrafted items that reflect local craftsmanship.
• Seasonal treats like gingerbread, mulled wine, and pain d’épices.
• Live performances and concerts that entertain visitors of all ages.

With its breathtaking medieval architecture and vibrant holiday market, Metz creates an enchanting Christmas experience that attracts visitors from near and far.

Lille Christmas Market

Dates: November 23 – December 30, 2024

Lille hosts one of northern France’s largest Christmas markets in the iconic Grand Place. The market transforms the city center into a festive wonderland, adorned with thousands of twinkling lights and featuring a towering Ferris wheel that overlooks the historic square.

Must-see features:

• Over 90 stalls offering artisanal products, holiday decorations, and regional foods.
• Ferris wheel rides that provide panoramic views of the illuminated city.
• Traditional Christmas foods such as waffles, carbonnade flamande, and mulled wine.
• Handmade gifts including toys, ornaments, and accessories crafted by local artisans.

The Lille Christmas market is a festive haven for holiday shoppers, offering a delightful mix of seasonal treats, entertainment, and shopping amidst a beautifully festive setting.

Nantes Christmas Market

Dates: November 21 – December 31, 2024

Nantes boasts a vibrant and lively Christmas market located in the city’s historic center. Visitors can explore a wide array of artisanal products, local delicacies, and festive entertainment, making this market a joyous destination for families and holiday enthusiasts alike.

Highlights include:

• Interactive activities for families, including workshops and festive games.
• Seasonal specialties such as galettes, chocolates, and mulled cider.
• Live performances featuring local choirs and street entertainers.
• Beautifully decorated stalls displaying handmade crafts and holiday decorations.

Nantes’ festive atmosphere, combined with its rich cultural heritage, guarantees a memorable holiday experience for all who visit.

Other Notable Christmas Markets

Rouen Christmas Market 

Dates: November 21 – December 24, 2024

Rouen presents an enchanting Christmas market set in the historic square near its iconic cathedral. Visitors are welcomed by charming wooden chalets adorned with festive lights and ornaments, creating a magical holiday ambiance. The market offers a variety of unique gifts and seasonal treats, making it a delightful destination for holiday shoppers.

Highlights of Rouen’s Christmas Market:

• Handmade crafts: Explore beautifully crafted items from local artisans, perfect for unique holiday gifts.
• Festive treats: Indulge in local specialties such as bûche de Noël, mulled wine, and roasted chestnuts.
• Picturesque setting: The stunning architecture of Rouen Cathedral enhances the magical atmosphere, especially in the evening when twinkling lights illuminate the square.
• Holiday entertainment: Carolers, musicians, and street performers contribute to the festive spirit, ensuring a joyful experience for visitors.

Rouen’s Christmas market captures the charm of the holiday season with its historical backdrop, festive stalls, and warm ambiance.

Sarlat Christmas Market

Dates: December 4 – December 24, 2024

The medieval town of Sarlat transforms into a cozy winter haven during the holiday season. Its quaint Christmas market is nestled within the town’s narrow cobblestone streets and historic architecture, emphasizing local traditions and products, making it an ideal place to discover authentic holiday treasures.

Key features of the Sarlat Christmas Market:

• Artisanal crafts: Discover handcrafted items, including ceramics, textiles, and woodwork.
• Local delicacies: Savor the flavors of the region with offerings like foie gras, truffles, and spiced pastries.
• Charming atmosphere: The market’s medieval setting, complete with stone buildings and festive decorations, adds to the magical experience.
• Family-friendly activities: Families can enjoy children’s workshops, holiday-themed games, and festive performances.

Sarlat’s intimate market reflects the region’s cultural richness and offers a truly authentic holiday experience.

Carcassonne Christmas Market

Dates: December 7, 2024 – January 5, 2025

The fortified city of Carcassonne serves as a dramatic backdrop for its Christmas market, offering visitors a distinctive holiday experience. Enclosed by ancient walls, the market features festive stalls, breathtaking views, and seasonal delights for everyone to enjoy.

What makes Carcassonne’s Christmas Market special:

• Historic setting: The medieval fortress adds a sense of wonder and history, making this market one of the most unique in France.
• Festive stalls: Explore a variety of stalls offering handcrafted gifts, holiday decorations, and regional products.
• Panoramic Ferris wheel: Take in sweeping views of the fortress and surrounding countryside from the Ferris wheel.
• Gourmet treats: Indulge in traditional holiday fare, including cassoulet, cheese, and sweet pastries.

Carcassonne’s blend of history, festivities, and delicious food ensures a memorable holiday adventure.

Riquewihr Christmas Market 

Dates: November 29 – December 22, 2024

Riquewihr offers a picturesque Christmas market set in the heart of Alsace’s wine country. Renowned for its charming half-timbered houses, Riquewihr transforms into a winter wonderland adorned with festive lights, holiday decorations, and a cozy market showcasing local crafts and delicacies.

Noteworthy aspects of the Riquewihr Christmas Market:

• Alsatian specialties: Experience the best of Alsace, including mulled wine, bredeles (Christmas cookies), and regional cheeses.
• Handmade gifts: Browse through stalls featuring local crafts such as pottery, jewelry, and holiday ornaments.
• Fairytale setting: The town’s enchanting streets and historical architecture evoke the feeling of a holiday storybook.
• Festive decorations: The beautifully adorned streets, twinkling lights, and seasonal garlands enhance the magical holiday experience.

Riquewihr’s Christmas market is perfect for anyone seeking the charm of Alsace during the festive season.

Arras Christmas Market 

Dates: November 24 – December 30, 2024

Arras welcomes visitors to its lively Christmas market, located in the historic Grand Place. The market boasts a stunning array of stalls and festive decorations, offering everything from local products to seasonal treats, making it a delightful destination for locals and tourists alike.

Highlights of the Arras Christmas Market:

• Artisanal products: Discover handmade crafts, including jewelry, clothing, and holiday décor.
• Seasonal delicacies: Savor regional specialties such as gingerbread, roasted meats, and mulled wine.
• Festive activities: The market features holiday entertainment, including concerts, ice skating, and a giant Ferris wheel.
• Beautiful setting: The Grand Place, with its Flemish-Baroque architecture, provides a majestic backdrop for the festivities.

Arras’ Christmas market is celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere and stunning location, making it one of northern France’s premier holiday destinations.

Unique Features of French Christmas Markets

French Christmas markets are famous for their traditional products and crafts, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of each region. Visitors can discover a wide range of handcrafted items, including ornaments, textiles, and artisanal goods, perfect for holiday gifting.

Regional specialties are also a highlight of the markets, offering an array of local delicacies. From Alsatian pastries and roasted chestnuts to gourmet cheeses and mulled wine, the culinary offerings reflect the diverse flavors of France.

Entertainment and activities further enhance the Christmas market experience. Ice rinks, merry-go-rounds, and light displays create a festive atmosphere, inviting families to embrace the holiday spirit. The lively entertainment, featuring live music and caroling, ensures that visitors of all ages can fully immerse themselves in the joyous ambiance of the season.