France: Tour of the Arras Christmas markets
The festive season is in full swing in Europe, and along with it came a variety of picturesque Christmas markets enveloped in twinkling lights.
One charming town in the heart of Alsace, in France, seems perfect for this season, as it invites visitors to wander through its cobblestone streets and alongside its flower-bordered canal.
Colmar, with its timber-framed houses and vibrant facades, is a visual delight and sets the scene for Christmas market exploring or even a leisurely canoe trip.
In the town centre six markets come to life, connected by illuminated streets where snug wooden chalets cluster together tightly.
Every Wednesday and Saturday, around 5pm, a children’s choir graces the local canal, affectionately named Petite Venise or Little Venice, filling the air with carols and adding an extra layer of holiday joy to the festive atmosphere.
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With a focus on artisanal products, Place Jeanne d’Arc, situated amidst charming timber-framed houses, features food and other goods local to the Alsace region, including a variety of wines, gingerbread and Christmas Bredele.
The Colmar Children’s Christmas Market is a delight for the entire family, and boasts attractions such as a mechanical Nativity Scene, ample servings of hot apple juice, and the unique opportunity for children to post letters directly to Father Christmas.
For the ultimate Christmas market foodie experience, culinary bliss awaits those who venture to Place de la Cathedrale, which unfolds in the shadow of the Collegiate Church of Saint Martin.
Here, you can discover a selection of nine chalets arranged under a covering, marking this market as the other semi-indoor gem in Colmar. The chalets form a semi-circle around tables equipped with small benches, creating a cozy setting for visitors to sit and relish their gourmet finds.
Nestled in a building just a few steps from the Place de l’Ancienne Douane, the indoor market stands out for its emphasis on handcrafted goods and vintage treasures.
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Spanning two floors, the market showcases an array of distinctive offerings, including unique jewellery pieces, vintage maps, antiquarian books, and finely crafted wooden products.
Place de l’Ancienne Douane, or Ancient Customs Square in English, is home to one of the largest Christmas Markets in Colmar.
Comprising approximately fifty chalets, the market offers a diverse array of goods, ranging from local Alsace produce to enchanting Christmas decorations.
Alongside Kayersberg and Strasbourg, Colmar stands as a quintessential representation of the picturesque and enchanting Alsace region.
Situated in northeastern France, in close proximity to Germany and Switzerland, this provincial town captivates with its timeless beauty and allure.
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