From late November to late December, Alsace dresses up for the festive season and transforms into a real-life Christmas storybook. The half-timbered façades light up, windows sparkle with decorations, and the streets and squares are filled with the aromas of cinnamon, mulled wine and bredele cookies… In every town and village, right down to the tiniest lanes, the magic of Christmas is everywhere. It’s a unique, warm and authentic atmosphere that has made our beautiful region famous far beyond its borders.

You can’t talk about Christmas in Alsace without mentioning its iconic markets!

Strasbourg, home to the famous Christkindelsmärik, considered one of Europe’s oldest Christmas markets, dating back to 1570, immerses you in a fairytale atmosphere at the foot of its magnificent cathedral. Sélestat, the historic birthplace of the Christmas tree tradition, invites you to discover a story that dates back to the 16th century. Colmar, with its cobbled lanes, colorful houses and delicate illuminations, looks as if it has stepped straight out of a picture book.

But the magic doesn’t stop there! Wissembourg, Obernai, Ribeauvillé, Kaysersberg, Riquewihr… So many charming destinations where Alsatian traditions, crafts, decorations and delicious treats come together to create unforgettable experiences. Each market has its own character, atmosphere and little treasures to discover.

And don’t miss the smaller Christmas markets!

Truchtersheim, Quatzenheim, Ittenheim, Molsheim, Bouxwiller and many other villages also host their own festivities. Some markets run for just one weekend, sometimes even a single evening, but they’re well worth a visit!

Smaller and often less crowded, they offer another side of Christmas in Alsace—more intimate and authentic. You’ll meet local artisans and makers who, unable to afford a stall at the larger markets, come to share their skills in a friendly atmosphere. Handmade decorations, original creations, handcrafted goods and unique gift ideas: wonderful finds you won’t necessarily come across elsewhere. It’s also a chance to support local talent and take home a real memento of your stay.

Visiting Alsace after Christmas? The magic can continue!

If you’re staying in late December, why not take a trip across the border? About an hour’s drive from our holiday cottage, Baden-Baden, Germany, welcomes you with an elegant Christmas setting. It’s a wonderful opportunity to discover another Christmas tradition and keep the festive spirit alive until January 6, 2027.

A few tips to make the most of your stay:

• If you can, visit during the week. At weekends, the most popular markets draw huge crowds. Visit Monday to Friday and you’ll generally find a more relaxed atmosphere, with more time to stroll, admire the decorations and meet the artisans.

• Travelling with young children? We strongly recommend using a baby carrier rather than a stroller. In the sometimes-crowded lanes, your little one can be carried at eye level and enjoy the lights and decorations without being jostled by the crowds.

• Take time to explore off the beaten path! Don’t limit yourself to the best-known markets. The small villages often hold lovely surprises and are an essential part of the charm of Christmas in Alsace.

Why not experience the magic of Christmas in Alsace this year?

Whether you love traditions, are passionate about crafts, enjoy local specialties or are simply looking for an enchanting getaway with family or friends, our region is sure to amaze you.

One thing to keep in mind: this is an especially popular time of year! Weekends and the most sought-after dates often book up months in advance.

So don’t wait until the last minute to book your stay and enjoy a wonderful getaway at the heart of Alsace’s Christmas magic. We’ll be delighted to welcome you!