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Christmas in Alsace and across the Rhine

Christmas in Alsace is, of course, synonymous with Strasbourg, the Christmas capital, home to Europe's oldest Christmas market with its illuminations and giant Christmas tree, but there are also many other Christmas markets to discover throughout the Alsace region.

  • A Christmas here and elsewhere

Eurometropolis of Strasbourg: 33 Municipalities in the Spirit of Christmas

Throughout the Eurometropolis of Strasbourg, all 33 municipalities celebrate the magic of Christmas. Decorated façades, illuminated streets, chalets on village squares or small markets set up in farm courtyards – residents keep the Alsatian tradition alive with creativity and warmth. Each place offers an authentic experience filled with conviviality, tradition, and wonder.

Your Stay in Alsace

Christmas is the perfect time to rediscover Alsace and its iconic markets. Less than an hour from Strasbourg, every town reveals its own festive atmosphere: Haguenau (from 21 November to 30 December) charms with its traditional market; Saverne (from 28 November to 4 January, Thursday to Sunday) invites visitors to enjoy its ice rink; Mulhouse (from 21 November to 27 December) showcases a unique fabric created each year for the occasion; Sélestat (from 21 November to 28 December), the birthplace of the Christmas tree, tells the story of its decorations; Eguisheim (from 28 to 30 December, except 24–26 December) and Neuf-Brisach (from 12 to 14 December) transport visitors back in time with enchanting settings and period costumes.

Other towns such as Altkirch, Thann, Ungersheim, Guebwiller, Munster, Colmar, Orbey, Barr, Obernai, Grendelbruch, Truchtersheim, Bouxwiller, Soufflenheim, and Soultz-sous-Forêts also take part in this cherished tradition.

Your Stay Beyond the Borders

Across the Rhine, the Christmas magic continues. In Freiburg im Breisgau, nearly 150 craftspeople fill the cobbled streets of the old town. Beneath the stone viaduct of Ravenna Gorge, forty chalets sparkle each Advent weekend. In Gengenbach, the world’s largest Advent calendar lights up the half-timbered façades every evening.

Markets, concerts, workshops, and tastings set the rhythm of the season in the villages of the Ortenau region. Between glassblowing, tree-cutting, and a shared cup of mulled wine, both young and old will find their delight.

Did You Know?

Many Christmas markets can be reached by train – a simple, eco-friendly, and comfortable way to travel while admiring the winter landscapes. Step aboard and let yourself be carried away by the magic of the journey!