We can all use a boost of holiday cheer. One of the best places to go and stoke that merry glow is a holiday market. In France they’re called marchés de Noël. The tradition of Christmas markets started in Germany and spread to Alsace in the late Middle Ages (roughly 1570). Here are a few of the best Christmas markets in France.
In Paris, Christmas Markets will be lighting up different parts of the city. Here’s a rundown of what you can expect during the 2019 season.
In Provence, one of the prettiest Christmas markets takes place in Avignon. At Place de l’Horloge, the carousel is decked out like a jewel box. There are roughly 60 stalls, an elaborate nativity scene, and countless street entertainers. Among the regional specialties are the traditional 13 desserts of the Provençal-style Christmas meal.
Marché de Noël in Avignon
In Marseille, the Foire aux Santons is a celebration of santons (little saints), which are hand-painted figurines made of wood or clay. They were originally created to represent the Nativity. Families throughout Provence often expand their collections with a couple new ones at Christmas time. Over the years, the array of figurines has expanded to include traditional tradespeople and characters such as bakers and boules players. Master santonniers come to the Foire aux Santons to display and sell their handiwork.
Nativity scene with santons
In Strasbourg, tourists come from all over the world to experience the oldest and one of the best Christmas markets in France. There are hundreds of stands across almost a dozen locations, a huge Christmas tree, and Alsatian food specialties.
Christmas market in Strasbourg
Other Christmas markets in France that stand out include those in Aix-en-Provence, Colmar, Rouen, Amiens, Lille, and Reims. Holiday markets worldwide have become increasingly popular as a tourist attraction. And yet in France, as with most other markets, they’re primarily geared to locals who cherish the festive tradition.
Colmar Xmas market
Sparkling lights and wooden chalet-style stalls lend a fairytale atmosphere to the setting. The aromas from vin chaud (hot mulled wine), chocolat chaud (hot chocolate) and pain d’épices (similar to gingerbread but with more spices ) lighten the mood even more. Plus it’s a chance to buy ornaments, crafts, and regional specialties. Gooey tartiflette (made with cheese, potatoes, bacon. and onions—a dish traced to the Haute-Savoie region), Corsican sausages, Bavarian pretzels, foie gras, and smoked salmon are among the tantalizing offerings.
Bavarian pretzels
Les marchés de Noël are family-oriented fun. Revelers of all ages stroll them. Although there’s plenty to buy, the point of going is usually not expressly about shopping for gifts. Instead, it’s more about the pleasure of enjoying the company of family and friends, and maybe stocking up on some seasonal delicacies to create a special holiday meal.
Christmas markets in France open in late November. If you go, dress warmly, bring cash, and prepare to be dazzled.
Related Posts:
Christmas Markets of Strasbourg
Santons of Provence
Seasonal Delights at the French Winter Markets
2 comments. Leave new
Looks like we have a common love of food and markets! I personally prefer the smaller markets in the villages in Provence. I would love to visit Paris and Alsace though!
We certainly are kindred spirits. Thanks for commenting, and I hope we’ll have a chance to cross paths sometime. Best wishes for 2016. ~Marjorie