My Family at Christmas: A Family Outing in Aix-en-Provence
- virginieinprovence
- Nov 18
- 2 min read
For us, the Aix-en-Provence Christmas Market has become a true family tradition. Every December, we go there, usually all together. Since we celebrate Christmas at home, this outing is our little festive escape before or after the preparations.
📅 In 2025, the Aix-en-Provence Christmas Market will take place from November 11 to January 12 on the Cours Mirabeau.
It’s not a huge market, but that’s exactly what I like. It’s human-sized, pleasant to stroll through, and the atmosphere is always warm. For me, it may not be “the most beautiful or the largest Christmas market”, but it is without a doubt one of the most enjoyable to experience as a family.
A unique atmosphere in the heart of Aix-en-Provence
As soon as the chalets are set up on the Cours Mirabeau, the city changes its face. Garlands light up the facades, Christmas music fills the air, and the scents are unmistakable: cinnamon, chocolate, roasted almonds… and of course, that spicy aroma of mulled wine drifting everywhere. Just walking along the alleys allows you to feel the Christmas spirit, without necessarily buying anything.
The attractions of Christmas markets in Provence
Memories that evolve with the children
When my children were little, the must-see attractions were the rides, the ice rink, and a photo with Santa Claus.
Today, things have changed. Léo, who is 13, no longer goes on the rides: he prefers to stroll with us, look at the stalls, and take in the atmosphere. Tom and Lily can still be convinced to hop on the carousel 🎠.
In the end, we always gather around a chocolate crêpe or a crispy waffle sprinkled with sugar. For me, these simple moments, shared as a family under the Christmas lights, are the most precious.
What can you find at the Aix-en-Provence Christmas market?
The stalls are varied and offer:
local products: cheeses, nougat, honey, calissons d’Aix,
crafts: jewelry, Christmas decorations, Marseille soaps,
treats: crêpes, roasted chestnuts, gingerbread, sweet brioches.
It’s always an opportunity to bring home a little surprise or to taste a seasonal specialty.
Why I love this Christmas market in particular?
I have visited several markets in Provence, but the one in Aix-en-Provence holds a special place for me. Not because it is the biggest or the most spectacular, but because it is human-sized, lively, and welcoming. You easily run into people, stop for a chat, and above all, spend genuine time together.
Experiencing a Christmas market during an immersion stay
If you come to Provence for a language immersion stay with me, I will take you to discover this market and other local traditions. It will be the perfect opportunity to practice your French in real-life situations while immersing yourself in the warm holiday spirit of Provence.
🎄 See you soon in Provence,
Virginie in Provence
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