Christmas markets in France
France is known for its wonderful markets, but one of the best times of year to visit is during the Santa season. There are several Christmas markets throughout France, with wonderful handcrafted ornaments, gifts and food items.
Every year, when Christmas comes, Strasbourg, in Alsace, enlightens. Lights sparkle throughout the city and the atmosphere is one of meeting friends and sharing the festive spirit. Mulled wine is sampled in front of the opera or the cathedral, arms are laden with hundreds of gifts and children are the centre of the celebrations. Strasbourg is seen as the undisputed capital of Christmas the world over.
At this time the city also shows its true face: that of a city that is both anchored in tradition, with a Christmas Market that is almost five centuries old, and a modern city capable of offering a wealth of activities, partly due to its concentrated network of associations; concerts, events for children and adults, guided tours, exhibitions, sporting or cultural events, etc.
Paris also features several Christmas markets, with most starting sometime between late November and early December. There, you can get an original taste of the City of Light in the Santa season. The Christmassy atmosphere is just wonderful in this city!
In the South of France, the city of Aubagne holds its traditional “Village des santons”, as the speciality of the city is the “santon”, understand Christmas crib figure. It is open from the 21 Novembre to the 31 Decembre. There, you will find poteries, decoration items, jewels and… Christmas crib figures! Everything for a warm and very Christmassy Christmas! With sweets, colours, music, lights and mulled wine. Probably only the snow will be missing…
