When it comes to immersing yourself in the magic of the holiday season, few places can match the enchanting Alsace region of northeastern France. Situated on the picturesque River Rhine, Alsace is known for its charming villages, centuries-old traditions and, above all, its world-famous Christmas markets.
Where is Alsace?
Before you dive into the market, get to know the Alsace region. Located in France’s Grand Est, Alsace boasts a unique blend of French and German influences, thanks to a history of Franco-German exchange. Strasbourg, the capital of the Alsace region, is famous not only for its charming half-timbered architecture and white wine, but also as the home of the European Union Parliament.
When it comes to Christmas markets, Alsace has a distinctly German Christmas market atmosphere. Strasbourg in particular is known for hosting Europe’s oldest Christmas market, dating back to the 1500s. It’s no wonder Strasbourg is called the Christmas capital, making the entire region a must-see during the holiday season.
Strasbourg: the capital of Christmas
Strasbourg Christmas Market – a timeless classic
Strasbourg, revered as the “Capital of Christmas,” is home to the oldest Christmas market in France, and perhaps the world. With its origins dating back to 1570, Strasbourg’s Christmas Market transforms the city’s historic center into a winter wonderland. Its iconic cathedral, adorned with twinkling lights, sets the perfect festive atmosphere. Visitors can stroll the quaint cobblestone streets, admire artisan craftsmanship, sample delicious Alsatian cuisine, and sip mulled wine locally known as “vin chaud.”
The highlight is the 100-foot, 100-foot Christmas tree on Place Kléber.
This majestic tree is a symbol of Strasbourg’s commitment to preserving the essence of Christmas, a centuries-old tradition.
Strasbourg’s Christmas market is more than just shopping. It is an experience where you can truly immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the season. You can also warm up with a piping hot vin chaud (mulled wine) or sample the city’s famous delicious Alsatian flatbread flammecouche. The market is also a showcase for local artisans, with handmade ornaments, crafts and traditional Alsatian products that make memorable souvenirs.
inside information: For even more magic, don’t miss the Grande Ile district. Place Kléber is home to a spectacular Christmas tree that is over 100 feet tall.
2023 dates: November 24th – December 24th, 2023
Colmar: the setting for fairy tales
Colmar’s Place Nicolas – A Fairytale Christmas
Colmar, also known as the “Fairy Tale City”, enchants visitors with its half-timbered houses and charming canals, creating a truly magical Christmas experience. Colmar’s Christmas markets are held in multiple locations and host a variety of holiday festivities. Nicholas Square in particular captures the essence of the season with its dazzling lights, merry-go-round and fun stalls selling handmade gifts.
2023 date: November 23, 2023 – December 29, 2023
inside information: Explore the Old Town area, where Maison Pfister and other historic buildings are beautifully decorated for the holidays.
Mulhouse: Modern Christmas
Marché de Noël in Mulhouse – a modern festival
For a more modern Christmas market, head to Mulhouse. The Marché de Noël in Mulhouse brings a fresh, modern perspective to traditional Alsatian celebrations. Here you will find unique and innovative gifts, craftsmanship and a wide range of gourmet food. The market focuses on sustainability and eco-friendly practices, adding a unique touch to the holiday experience.
2023 date: November 24th to December 27th
inside information: Check out Etouffe de Noël, our market section dedicated to textiles and fabrics perfect for unique holiday-themed clothing and decor.
Riquewihr: A fairytale Christmas
Riquewihr Christmas Market – A journey through time
A medieval gem located in the heart of Alsace’s vineyards, Riquewihr offers visitors the opportunity to travel back in time during the holiday season. Riquewihr’s Christmas market is known for its authentic atmosphere, with half-timbered buildings decorated with twinkling lights and ornaments. Stroll through the market’s narrow, winding streets and you’ll find local artisans showcasing their talents and regional specialties.
2023 date: November 25th to December 21st
inside information: Immerse yourself in the medieval atmosphere of Riquewihr and sample the traditional Alsatian cake “kugelhop”.
Ribeauvillers: a medieval wonderland
Ribeauviller Christmas Market – A journey into the past
This is unlike any Christmas market I’ve ever been to! The entire town dresses up, performs, and sings. It’s just one of the coolest experiences.
It’s like a medieval market in Alsace, with performances and a procession of live animals. Another jewel of the Alsace region, Ribeauvillé offers a unique journey into the past during the Christmas season. Ribeauvillé’s Christmas market retains its medieval charm, with its narrow streets and half-timbered houses. Visitors can stroll through stalls filled with handmade gifts, enjoy local gourmet food, and experience the magic of a bygone era.
date: 2 days only!!!
- December 2 and 3, 2023
- December 9 and 10, 2023
inside information: That’s only twice on the weekend! So, plan accordingly.
Eguisheim: the birthplace of Alsatian wine
Eguisheim Christmas Market – where wine meets winter
Known as the “cradle of Alsatian wine”, Eguisheim hosts a Christmas market that combines the region’s rich wine culture with festive celebrations. The Eguisheim Christmas Market takes place in the village center, surrounded by charming vineyards. Visitors can sample exquisite Alsatian wines, stroll through market stalls filled with artisan products, and enjoy the warm and welcoming atmosphere of this picturesque village.
2023 date:November 23rd to December 13th
inside information: Taste the local Cremant d’Alsace, a sparkling wine perfect for the holidays.
Kaysersberg: a picturesque Christmas
Kaysersberg Christmas Market – charming and picturesque
With its picture-postcard scenery, Kaysersberg is the perfect holiday destination. His Christmas Market in Kaysersberg captures the essence of the Alsatian region with its cozy atmosphere and stunning backdrop of the Vosges Mountains. Stroll along the riverbank, visit a medieval castle, and browse market stalls where local artisans offer handmade treasures.
2023 date: November 23rd to December 16th
Obernai: Medieval Jewels
Obernai Christmas Market – Medieval Charm
A true medieval gem in Alsace, Obernai offers a fun Christmas market experience steeped in history. Obernai’s Christmas market exudes old-world charm, with its half-timbered houses and cobbled streets. Visitors can soak up the festive atmosphere as they stroll through this picturesque town, browsing market stalls filled with handmade crafts and local specialties.
2023 date: November 23rd to December 30th
inside information: Don’t miss the illuminated facade of the Town Hall, a real highlight of Obernai’s Christmas decorations.