The Strasbourg Christmas market is an enchanting interlude that has existed since 1570 and attracts 2 million visitors each year.
The oldest Christmas market
At Christmas, at the turn of the illuminated streets and alleys of Strasbourg, the city is transformed into an enchanting and enchanted setting. The ride is magical for the greatest pleasure of all. The Christkindelsmärik, or “market of the child Jesus“, is the name given in the Alsatian language to the traditional Christmas market which has been held since 1570 in Strasbourg, Alsace, and was for a long time the only one in France. It begins on the first Saturday of Advent and ends on the evening of December 24.
In honor of Saint-Nicolas
The Christkindelsmärik attracts two million visitors from all over the world every year. The Christkindelsmärik in Strasbourg is one of the oldest Christmas markets, which were specific to the Germanic world. In the Middle Ages, a market was organized in Strasbourg in anticipation of the feast of Saint-Nicolas on December 6th. It is indeed to the bishop of Myra in Turkey in the 4th century, that the role of giver of gifts to children was attributed. To allow parents to obtain sweets and toys, a market, called in Alsatian “Klausemärik”, was then set up a few days before this date. Since then, the atmosphere that reigns in the city during the Christmas period is unique.
A fairy tale atmosphere
The facades and the streets are decked out in their finest finery, the windows sparkle, the smells of cinnamon and spices evoke childhood memories, Christmas carols resound in the depths of the churches. The whole city is transformed into an enchanting setting. An essential symbol of “Strasbourg, capital of Christmas“, the large Christmas tree stands tall on Place Kléber. It is the tallest decorated natural tree in Europe. In the streets, squares and squares of the city, not far from 300 superbly decorated and illuminated chalets offer a multitude of products allowing walkers to prepare for Christmas with dignity: original gifts, traditional objects for decorating the Christmas tree… not to mention traditional delicacies (in particular bredle – small Christmas biscuits – and mulled wine!). Strasbourg is, throughout the month of December, one of the most illuminated cities in Europe. A real fairy tale atmosphere!
