Discover the magic of Alsace at Christmas: centuries-old markets, unique traditions, charming decorations and exquisite gastronomy in a festive atmosphere.

Christmas in Alsace, a region in northeastern France, is a magical and unique experience that attracts visitors from all over the world.

Famous for its Christmas markets, picturesque architecture and ancient traditions, Alsace transforms into a winter fairy tale during this time of year.

This article explores the different facets of Christmas in Alsace, offering a detailed view of its celebrations, decorations and gastronomy.

Alsace at Christmas: a spectacle of light and color

First of all, if you don’t know this region of France, we suggest you take a look at our article Where is Alsace? dedicated to its history, geography and culture.

The celebration of Alsace at Christmas is synonymous with its spectacular Christmas markets, known for their vibrant atmosphere and rich cultural tradition.

In Strasbourg Europe’s oldest Christmas market, “Christkindelsmärik”, offers a unique experience with its spectacular lighting and stalls displaying a wide variety of local crafts, christmas sweets and the traditional vin chaud (mulled wine). Walking through the streets and squares of Strasbourg during Christmas is like immersing yourself in a fairy tale world, with its festive decorations and lights that illuminate the city.

In Colmar, the Christmas market captures the essence of a true fairy tale. Located between canals and Renaissance buildings, this market stands out for its charming luminous decoration and positions offered from local crafts until culinary delights Alsatians.

Christmas choirs add a musical touch to the experience, while the lights and decorations transform the city into a magical and welcoming setting. If you are interested in this topic, you are in luck because in How to do it all we have already talked about the French Christmas markets.

Traditions and celebrations

The decoration magic in Alsace during Christmas is incomparable. The houses are dressed up with bright lights, garlands and figures representing Saint Nicholas, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Decoration competitions in the villages foster a strong community spirit and creativity among the inhabitants, making Christmas decoration a true art.

The religious and cultural festivities They are also a central pillar of Christmas in Alsace. Traditions are kept alive through midnight masses and carol concerts, which reflect the region’s deep Christian heritage. Local legends such as “Hans Trapp” and “Christkind” are an integral part of Christmas folklore, adding a touch of mystery and tradition to the celebrations.

Alsatian Christmas gastronomy

The gastronomy In Alsace during Christmas it is a feast for the senses. Typical dishes such as “Baeckeoffe”, a meat and vegetable stew, and the exquisite “Foie Gras” are essential on the Alsatian table. Traditional sweets, such as Bredle, small Christmas cookies, and Kouglof, a delicious cake, are delicacies that delight locals and visitors alike.

As to festive wines and drinks, Alsace is a paradise for wine lovers. During Christmas, the vin chaud takes center stage, offering warmth and flavor with its blend of spices.

In addition, local liquors and beers enrich the gastronomic offer, providing a wide variety of flavors that perfectly complement the Christmas experience.

5-day travel plan in Alsace during Christmas

Day 1: Exploration of Strasbourg

• Tomorrow: Start your trip in Strasbourg, the capital of Alsace. Visit the famous Notre Dame de Strasbourg Cathedral and enjoy the views from its platform.
• Late: Explore the Christkindelsmärik Christmas Market, one of the oldest in Europe. Browse the craft stalls and sample local sweets.
• Evening: Dine in a traditional Alsatian restaurant and enjoy typical dishes such as choucroute (fermented cabbage with sausages and other sausages).

Day 2: Colmar and its Charms

• Tomorrow: Head to Colmar, a fairytale city. Walk through it Petite Venise neighborhood and admire the canals and colorful architecture.
• Late: Visit the Colmar Christmas markets, distributed throughout the city, standing out for their magical decoration and atmosphere.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner in one of Colmar’s cozy restaurants, trying specialties such as Baeckeoffe.

Day 3: Wine Route and Charming Towns

• Tomorrow: Begins Alsace Wine Route. Visit wineries in towns like Riquewihr and taste local wines.
• Late: Continue your tour through other picturesque towns such as Ribeauvillé, where you can enjoy its Christmas market and medieval architecture.
• Evening: Dinner at a local restaurant, ideally in a “Winstub”, a typical Alsatian tavern.

Day 4: Mont Sainte-Odile and Obernai

• Tomorrow: Visit the Mont Sainte-Odilea historic monastery with stunning views of the region.
• Late: Explore Obernai, a charming town with a vibrant Christmas market and beautiful streets.
• Evening: Try Alsatian specialties in Obernai, such as tartes flambées (a type of very thin pizza with cheese, onion and bacon).

Day 5: Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle and Closing in Strasbourg

• Tomorrow: Visit the Haut-Koenigsbourg Castle an impressive restored medieval castle.
• Late: Return to Strasbourg for last-minute shopping and to enjoy the Christmas atmosphere.
• Evening: Farewell dinner in Strasbourg. A good option is to try Foie Gras, a local delicacy, followed by a night walk to enjoy the city’s Christmas lights one last time.

Alsace, a Christmas destination par excellence

Alsace at Christmas is an experience that combines history, tradition and festivity in a unique way. From its Christmas markets to its culinary traditions, every aspect of Christmas in Alsace provides visitors with an unforgettable experience.

The region not only celebrates Christmas in its most traditional way, but also invites everyone to be part of a welcoming and festive atmosphere. Alsace, with its rich history and vibrant culture, is undoubtedly a Christmas destination par excellence, offering magical and memorable moments for all those who visit it. during this special time of year.