ALSACE’S CHRISTMAS MARKETS
A Christmas-movie atmosphere where childhood dreams come true
Alsace is brimming with age-old Christmas traditions, from the first written mention of the Christmas tree in 1521 in Sélestat to Strasbourg’s iconic Christkindelsmärik that was first held in 1570.
From Huningue to Wissembourg, from Saverne to Neuf-Brisach, Christmas lights illuminate every house, business, balcony, and balustrade. In the heart of this enchanted setting, the traditional Christmas markets come to life. There are of course the not-to-be-missed markets: Strasbourg, Colmar, Kaysersberg, Obernai, Ribeauvillé, Eguisheim, Riquewihr, and Mulhouse. But there are plenty of other little gems that are worth a visit: the village 1700 in Neuf Brisach, Christmas in Haguenau, and Munster soup in the town of the same name, famous for the artisanal cheese made in the heart of the valley!
The artisans of Alsace’s markets share their know-how and expertise with their local creations made of wood, fabric, pottery, and glass. A perfect place for finding a gift to slip under the tree. Christmas is also a delight for the taste buds. It’s the most gourmet of the seasons: famous bredalas or bredles paired with a glass of mulled wine or hot apple juice, a Christmas beer, gingerbread, or a manala.
CHRISTMAS SHOWS AND EVENTS
Activities and events for all ages, all throughout Alsace
Lantern walks, children singing on boats, ice skating rinks under the stars: the cities and villages of Alsace boast a rich and diverse programme of events during Advent! Wineries and Christmas farms invite visitors to meet the winegrowers and farmers and taste the flavours of the region.
For a magical outing, there’s the enchanted forest in Altkirch or the parade of the legendary Advent characters in Wissembourg. These delightful villages also offer Christmas treasure hunts for discovering Christmas traditions and architectural gems. For an immersive experience, there’s nothing like Christmas in the heart of the Alsace Ecomuseum, the largest open-air museum in France.
GETTING HERE, PARKING, AND BUS DROP-OFFS
For Christmas in Alsace without a car
Alsace’s famous Christmas markets have an impact on some of the roads. There are plenty of alternatives to driving, including Christmas shuttles and train services. There are also bus drop-off areas for easy group access to the Christmas markets as well as large car parks just outside of town.
