Christmas Markets in Provence. Discover a French tradition.
Updated: Nov 9
A Christmas market is usually held in the open air.
The Christmas market is associated with the celebration of Christmas.
You can find everything related to Christmas celebrations and Saint-Nicolas.
Christmas markets look like real little villages.
Strolling through the alleys, letting yourself be guided by the smells and colors represent a real pleasure for both tourists and locals.
History of Christmas Markets
The first Christmas markets appear in the 14th century in Germany.
They were present mainly in Central and Eastern Europe.
Gradually, this tradition spread throughout Europe, including Provence.
Certain well-known markets attract millions of tourists each year, such as Strasbourg for example.
They really participate in the cultural and economic life of the city.
Christmas market period
The traditional Christmas markets open their chalets from November.
They usually stay in place until the first Sunday after New Years Day.
In some villages, they can even be present until January 6 (Epiphany).
The Christmas market in Aix-en-Provence will take place this year from November 16th to December 31th.
Open every day in December, the vendors welcome you with open arms.
What can you find at the Christmas market?
The stalls are full of artisanal products, jewelry, products from elsewhere, etc.
Many smells of mulled wine, cinnamon cakes intermingle and immerse you in the Christmas atmosphere.
If you get hungry after your shopping, there are many local produce merchants who are happy to offer you a taste of the region's specialties: cheese, cold meats, but also cakes such as gingerbread.
What about kids?
Depending on the village or town, parents can accompany their children to watch the Christmas crib or they can bring them to take a picture with Santa.
Rides and other attractions such as ice rinks will also delight young and old alike.
Christmas markets are booming because they successfully combine the joys of winter with a festive atmosphere.
In Provence, the Aix-en-Provence market is one of the most beautiful, if not the most beautiful.
But it is still quite subjective in the end.
If you come to my place for an immersion stay in Provence, I will make you discover the different aspects of Provence: the landscapes and the scents, but also the culture, the gastronomy... while helping you to improve your French. See you soon in Provence!
Virginie In Provence