ONE OF THE MOST BEAUTIFUL CITIES FOR THE CHRISTMAS HOLIDAYS

From the magnificent cathedral to the most beautiful city squares, Strasbourg, the capital of Christmas, invites you to participate in the most beautiful of all holidays. The Christmas market in Strasbourg is the oldest in France and one of the oldest in Europe.

During the Christmas market, the atmosphere in Strasbourg is truly unique. More than 300 wooden huts, spread over different squares in the city, invite you to some enchanting discoveries in a fairy-tale atmosphere! But in addition to Strasbourg, Christmas activities also move to the surrounding towns, so it is up to you to visit Strasbourg, the capital of Christmas, this December, where you will experience a story that is reinvented every year, and most importantly, a story that has stood the test of time since 1570. years!

The facades and streets of the city are beautifully decorated, the windows sparkle, the scent of cinnamon and spices wafts through the air, bringing back memories of childhood, and Christmas carols ring out from the churches. During December, Strasbourg is one of the most illuminated cities in Europe. Streets, houses, windows and balconies sparkle every year with lights and decorations more original than the last.

Every year, the thirty-meter high Christmas tree on Kleber Square is decorated with colorful ornaments and twinkling lights. This basic symbol of “Strasbourg, the capital of Christmas” is also the most decorated Christmas tree in Europe. Hundreds of merchants and artisans occupy 300 huts located almost everywhere in the city center. Visitors can prepare for Christmas with original gifts, unique items for decorating the Christmas tree and traditional treats, such as Christmas cookies called bredle and mulled wine.

Visit Celestat, home of the Christmas tree
In Alsace, and especially in Selestat, the Christmas tree has a special place in the hearts of the citizens. Go to the Humanist Library (Bibliotheque Humaniste) to see the first written mention of the Christmas tree, in a carefully preserved old document. In 1521, Celestat’s city accountant took up his pen and wrote an entry in the city’s accounting books that would earn him a place in history. He recorded an expenditure of 4 shillings for the wages of foresters, who looked after fir trees in the common city forest. He added that the residents of the city will be able to take a Christmas tree from the forest to decorate it “as it has been done since time immemorial.”

Fairytale Christmas at Haut-Königsbourg Castle
Immerse yourself in the timeless Christmas atmosphere at Haut-Königsbourg Castle! Take a joyful journey through the history and customs of Christmas through the ages with activities, events and themed exhibitions. Stroll through the narrow streets of the castle surrounded by apple trees and hosts like in the Middle Ages. The magic continues with two Christmas evenings in the heart of the fortress. At dusk, follow a walk through the castle illuminated by lanterns in an exceptional atmosphere. Haut-Königsbourg castle is located about 60 kilometers from the center of Strasbourg.

Night Christmas with the night watchman Turckheim
During December you can meet the night watchman in the charming wine village of Turckheim not far from Strasbourg. With a triangular cap, a halberd, a lamp and a horn, the night watchman would keep a watchful eye on the countryside, announce the hours and bring order to the streets. Even today, three guards take turns over Turckheim. Follow them as they tell you the history of the town on a walk filled with anecdotes and Alsatian songs. Join the tradition and come listen to the guardian’s wishes at midnight on December 31st.

Medieval Christmas in Ribovil
Step back in time with medieval Christmas festivities in the heart of the city of minstrels! The village of Ribeauville puts on a stunning show for all ages: wine and barley beer, traditional dances, jugglers, peasants, street performers and even fire eaters join in the celebration. In the city center, charming market stalls are full of handicrafts and delicious local products, all in a medieval atmosphere, of course. Get ready to go to the Middle Ages!