Dreaming Of France: Strasbourg Christmas Market Madness

This Alsatian city in Eastern France may not have invented Noël, but every year it tries to perfect it.

We arrived in Strasbourg on Christmas day. At least once in the lives of any resident of France, one must visit the self-proclaimed Capital of Christmas. While there is no way to verify this subjective title, Strasbourg goes all out to convince any visitor that there is no rival to its Christmas mania.

There are several markets scattered across the city center, which transforms into a walled fortress surrounded by police who limit access to ensure security in light of attacks on such markets across Europe in recent years. We never felt anything less than safe.

Chrìstkìndelsmärik

We began our multi-day Christmas Blitzkrieg at the Chrìstkìndelsmärik, one of the main markets where we immediately feasted on bratwurst, vin chaud, and spaetzle. We are lovers of German food and a trip to Strasbourg is always an opportunity to indulge. (More on our gastronomic adventures in the next NL.)

Au pied du grand sapin (Place Kléber)

This market serves as Grand Central, with a light and music show each hour throughout the evening around its massive Christmas tree. Located in Place Kléber, the market also has several rows of chalets selling food and holiday trinkets.

But the attraction here is the Grand Sapin which is a big deal for locals (or so the brochures tell us). As the official program states: “The public follows its journey with bated breath from the forests of the Vosges to the center of Strasbourg!”

Autour de la cathédrale

The architectural centerpiece of Strasbourg of the Notre Dame Cathedral. There is a market of chalets packed around this square, though “packed” is the keyword here. Bring a stick to beat your way through the crowds. We wedged our way through and moved on to more tranquil settings.

Le quai des délices

This sweet little market sits right on the banks of the river and is all about Christmas treats like gingerbread, sweets, and wines. Most of it is locally produced.

Village de l’Avent

This is another smaller market tucked in the oldest part of Strasbourg. It features local farmers and artisans, dubbed the Irréductibles Petits Producteurs d'Alsace. There is also a small stage that features different musicians throughout the day.

Flâner

Of course, the whole city is dressed in its Christmas best. In the end, the highlight of the Christmas adventure was just wandering the streets and marveling at the elaborate decorations.

Chris O’Brien

Paris, France