2026FRANCE TRAVEL GUIDE · WINTER 2026
Compare confirmed dates and plan a festive trip to France’s Christmas markets, from Alsace to Provence and the Mediterranean coast.
France’s Christmas market season usually runs from late November to late December. Strasbourg and Colmar are the classic choices for an Alsace break, while southern destinations offer Christmas villages, lights and family attractions in a milder setting. Every listing below separates confirmed 2026 dates from programmes that are still pending.
verified places to start with
France’s Christmas market season usually runs from late November to late December. Strasbourg and Colmar are the classic choices for an Alsace break, while southern destinations offer Christmas villages, lights and family attractions in a milder setting. Every listing below separates confirmed 2026 dates from programmes that are still pending.
Strasbourg’s historic centre becomes a network of festive squares, with the Great Christmas Tree, craft stalls and seasonal food.
Colmar hosts several small themed markets across its old town, from Petite Venise to its historic squares.
A major festive market in central Reims, paired with the city’s illuminations and Christmas programme.
Lille Christmas Market. Programme: wooden stalls and seasonal treats.
Toulouse Christmas Market. Programme: local crafts, seasonal treats and festive entertainment.
Bordeaux Christmas Market. Programme: seasonal treats, festive entertainment and funfair rides.
Puteaux Christmas Market. Programme: wooden stalls, local crafts, food and drink and festive entertainment.
Nantes Christmas Market. Programme: local crafts and festive entertainment.
Annecy Christmas Market. Programme: the old town, wooden stalls and festive entertainment.
Metz Christmas Market. Programme: wooden stalls and regional food.
Montbéliard Christmas Market. Programme: Christmas lights and local crafts.
Mulhouse Christmas Market. Programme: local crafts and seasonal treats.
2026
Check the confirmed opening dates before booking travel.
Use the organiser’s official link for last-minute changes and opening hours.
For Alsace weekends, book accommodation early and compare rail access with park-and-ride options.
FAQ
Most major markets open in the second half of November and close between 24 and 31 December. Exact dates vary by town and are marked as confirmed only when an official source has published them.
Strasbourg and Colmar are the best-known choices for a traditional Alsace experience. Reims works well for a city break, while Avignon and Le Barcarès offer a different Christmas atmosphere in southern France.
Opening on 25 December varies considerably. Some markets close on 24 December, while others continue after Christmas. Always check the official organiser’s programme linked on the event page.