When it comes to immersing yourself in the magic of the holiday season, few places can match the enchanting Alsace region of northeastern France. Situated on the picturesque River Rhine, Alsace is known for its charming villages, centuries-old traditions and, above all, its world-famous Christmas markets.
Where is Alsace?
Before you dive into the market, get to know the Alsace region. Located in France’s Grand Est, Alsace boasts a unique blend of French and German influences, thanks to a history of Franco-German exchange. Strasbourg, the capital of the Alsace region, is famous not only for its charming half-timbered architecture and white wine, but also as the home of the European Union Parliament.
When it comes to Christmas markets, Alsace has a distinctly German Christmas market atmosphere. Strasbourg in particular is known for hosting Europe’s oldest Christmas market, dating back to the 1500s. It’s no wonder Strasbourg is called the Christmas capital, making the entire region a must-see during the holiday season.
Take a look at the Alsatian Christmas market schedule.
| city/village | Date in 2025 | daily/weekend | Precautions |
|---|---|---|---|
| strasbourg | November 26th – December 24th, 2025 | every day | Strasbourg, known as the ‘Christmas Capital’, is home to France’s oldest and most famous Christmas market. |
| colmar | November 25th – December 29th, 2025 | every day | There are six markets in the historic center, each with its own charm and theme. |
| mulhouse | November 21st – December 27th, 2025 | Every day (closed on December 25th) | It is famous for its vibrant Christmas fabrics, which are unique to the city’s textile heritage. |
| Obernai | November 28th – December 31st, 2025 | Every day (closed on December 25th) | A fascinating market focused on gastronomy and traditional crafts. |
| Riquewihr | November 28th – December 21st, 2025 | Friday to Sunday only | A fairy-tale medieval village is transformed into a festive wonderland at the weekend. |
| Kesersberg | November 28-30, December 5-7, December 12-14, December 19-21, 2025 | Weekends only (Friday-Sunday) | One of the most atmospheric markets in Alsace, open during the four Advent weekends. |
| Eguisheim | November 28th – December 30th, 2025 (Closed from December 24th to 26th) | every day | The circular village, surrounded by lights and decorations, is open for most of December. |
| Ribeauvillé | December 6-7 and December 13-14, 2025 | Two weekends in the Middle Ages | The medieval-themed Christmas market features costumed performers and a torchlight procession. |
| Haguenault | November 21st – December 30th, 2025 (Closed on December 25th) | every day | The festival center of northern Alsace. Chalets are scattered throughout the historic town centre. |
| celesta | November 21st – December 28th, 2025 | Every day (closed on December 25th) | Celebrating the origins of the Christmas tree, there are exhibitions and markets in three main squares. |
Strasbourg: the capital of Christmas
Strasbourg Christmas Market – a timeless classic
Strasbourg, revered as the “Capital of Christmas,” is home to the oldest Christmas market in France, and perhaps the world. Dating back to 1570, Strasbourg’s Christmas Market transforms the city’s historic center into a winter wonderland. Its iconic cathedral, adorned with twinkling lights, sets the perfect festive atmosphere. Visitors can stroll the quaint cobblestone streets, admire artisan craftsmanship, sample delicious Alsatian cuisine, and sip mulled wine locally known as “vin chaud.”
The highlight is the 100-foot, 100-foot Christmas tree on Place Kléber.
This majestic tree is a symbol of Strasbourg’s commitment to preserving the essence of Christmas, a centuries-old tradition.
Strasbourg’s Christmas market is more than just shopping. It is an experience where you can truly immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the season. You can also warm up with a piping hot vin chaud (mulled wine) or sample the city’s famous delectable Alsatian flatbread flammcouche. The market is also a showcase for local artisans, with handmade ornaments, crafts and traditional Alsatian products that make memorable souvenirs.
inside information: For even more magic, don’t miss the Grande Ile district. Place Kléber is home to a spectacular Christmas tree that is over 100 feet tall.
Date in 2025: November 26th – December 24th, 2025
Colmar: the setting for fairy tales
Colmar’s Place Nicolas – A Fairytale Christmas
Colmar, also known as the ‘Fairytale City’, enchants visitors with its half-timbered houses and charming canals, creating a truly magical Christmas experience. Colmar’s Christmas Market is held in multiple locations and hosts a variety of holiday festivities. Nicholas Square in particular captures the essence of the season with its dazzling lights, merry-go-round and fun stalls selling handmade gifts.
2025 date: November 25th to December 29th, 2025
inside information: Explore the Old Town area, where Maison Pfister and other historic buildings are beautifully decorated for the holidays.
Mulhouse: Modern Christmas
Marché de Noël in Mulhouse – a modern festival
For a more modern Christmas market, head to Mulhouse. The Marché de Noël in Mulhouse brings a fresh, modern perspective to traditional Alsatian celebrations. Here you will find unique and innovative gifts, craftsmanship and a wide range of gourmet food. The market focuses on sustainability and eco-friendly practices, adding a unique touch to the holiday experience.
2025 date:November 21st to December 27th
inside information: Check out Etouffe de Noël, our market section dedicated to textiles and fabrics perfect for unique holiday-themed clothing and decorations.
❄️ European packing essentials! ❄️
🧥 coat – Essentials for winter travel! This will not disappoint
👖 thermal leggings – Keeps you warm all day long.
👕 thermal undershirt – Adds warmth
🥾 boots– Stays comfortable and sturdy enough to be worn in the snow
🧦 wool socks– Keeps feet warm and dry
🧤 telephone gloves – These work so you can take photos of Christmas lights.
🧳 luggage – This is my favorite carry bag!
🔌 universeAl adapter – Perfect for country hopping
👜 crossbody bag – Great for hands-free and keeping your belongings safe
☃️ beanie hat – Essentials to keep you warm (and look cute!)
🔥 hand warmer – The secret to not getting cold!
🧣 scarf – So the key to packing less is to bring accessories like scarves to change things up.
Get my complete packing list here!
Riquewihr: A fairytale Christmas
Riquewihr Christmas Market – A journey through time
A medieval gem located in the heart of Alsace’s vineyards, Riquewihr offers visitors the opportunity to travel back in time during the holiday season. Riquewihr’s Christmas market is known for its authentic atmosphere, with half-timbered buildings decorated with twinkling lights and ornaments. Stroll through the market’s narrow, winding streets and you’ll find local artisans showcasing their talents and regional specialties.
2025 date: November 28th to December 21st
inside information: Immerse yourself in the medieval atmosphere of Riquewihr and sample the traditional Alsatian cake “kugelhop”.
Ribeauvillers: a medieval wonderland
Ribeauviller Christmas Market – A journey into the past
This is unlike any Christmas market I’ve ever been to! The entire town dresses up, performs, and sings. It’s just one of the coolest experiences.
It’s like a medieval market in Alsace, with performances and a procession of live animals. Another gem of the Alsace region, Ribeauvillé offers a unique journey into the past during the Christmas season. Ribeauvillé’s Christmas market retains its medieval charm, with its narrow streets and half-timbered houses. Visitors can stroll through stalls filled with handmade gifts, enjoy local gourmet food, and experience the magic of a bygone era.
date: 2 days only!!!
- December 6-7 and December 13-14, 2025
inside information: That’s only twice on the weekend! So, plan accordingly.
Eguisheim: the birthplace of Alsatian wine
Eguisheim Christmas Market – where wine meets winter
Known as the “cradle of Alsatian wine”, Eguisheim hosts a Christmas market that combines the region’s rich wine culture with festive celebrations. The Eguisheim Christmas Market takes place in the village center, surrounded by charming vineyards. Visitors can sample exquisite Alsatian wines, stroll through market stalls filled with artisan products, and enjoy the warm and welcoming atmosphere of this picturesque village.
2025 date: Weekend only from November 28th to December 30th!
inside information: Taste the local Cremant d’Alsace, a sparkling wine perfect for the holidays.
Kaysersberg: a picturesque Christmas
Kaysersberg Christmas Market – charming and picturesque
With its picture-postcard scenery, Kaysersberg is the perfect holiday destination. The Kaysersberg Christmas Market captures the essence of the Alsatian region with its cozy atmosphere and stunning backdrop of the Vosges Mountains. Stroll along the riverbank, visit a medieval castle, and browse market stalls where local artisans offer handmade treasures.
2025 date: November 28-30, December 5-7, December 12-14, December 19-21, 2025 – Weekends only
Obernai: Medieval Jewels
Obernai Christmas Market – Medieval Charm
A true medieval gem in Alsace, Obernai offers a fun Christmas market experience steeped in history. Obernai’s Christmas market exudes old-world charm, with its half-timbered houses and cobblestone streets. Visitors can soak up the festive atmosphere as they stroll through this picturesque town, browsing market stalls filled with handmade crafts and local specialties.
2025 date: November 28th to December 31st (Closed on Christmas Day and December 25th)
inside information: Don’t miss the illuminated facade of the Town Hall, a real highlight of Obernai’s Christmas decorations.
Source: Helene in Between – heleneinbetween.com
