Christmas and the city of Strasbourg have a long-standing love affair. Since 1570, the Christkindelsmärik (Alsatian for “baby Jesus market”) has been delighting both young and old alike. And yes you did read that right, it’s over 450 years old! This makes it one of the world’s oldest Christmas markets.
Here are my top tips for making the most of this event, which attracts two million visitors every year and begins on the first Saturday of Advent.
How to make the most of Strasbourg’s Christmas market
Picture avenues filled with lights, colours, and a host of aromas, like mulled wine, Alsatian tarte flambée on baguette, fir trees… No doubt about it, you’re at the Strasbourg Christmas market! Having never really left my city, I must say that I still enjoy walking around it, because the atmosphere is so magical. And who doesn’t love Christmas, apart from the Grinch?
A Christmas market in all 4 corners of the city
The great thing about this Christmas market is that it’s spread over several different locations so you can really get a feel for the city, its history and its special charm!
Here are some must-see places to ensure to enjoy your stay to the fullest:
- Place Kléber to see the giant Christmas tree, pretty decorations and the “Village du Partage” (Sharing Village), which brings together scores of charitable organisations in a spirit of sharing and solidarity.
- Place Broglie, the historic site of the Christkindelsmärik
- Place de la Cathédrale and Place du Château to enjoy the view of the cathedral while strolling among the stalls
- Place Benjamin Zix, in the heart of Petite France, which will allow you to discover some fantastic Alsatian producers, all in an ambiance worthy of Hogsmeade (Potterheads, this is for you!)
As I mentioned before, this event attracts around 2 million visitors every year… now that’s a lot! Here are my tips for avoiding the crowds:
- If you can, try to come during the week, as it’s usually less crowded than the weekend.
- Go twice: in the morning as soon as it opens so you can scope out your favourite places, then again at night to enjoy the lights and the atmosphere.
In any event, take the time to walk around and wander through the streets… because Strasbourg is a place you can’t visit in a hurry. Especially in the pre-Christmas period. It’s rather a time to slow down and enjoy the little things.
Strasbourg Christmas market dates 2023
The Strasbourg Christmas Market 2023 will open on 24 November (from 2pm) and continue until 6pm on 24 December. The Christmas houses are open every day, from 11.30 to 21.00.
The Village de l’Après remains open until January 1st.
My unusual Strasbourg Christmas market favourite
Since 2016, Place Grimmeissen has been home to marché Off, a socially responsible, engaged, ethical and solidarity-based Christmas market. No “Made in China” here. The idea is to bring together thirty or so local partners with the aim of promoting responsible choices, in what is a far cry from the usual mass consumption. A number of workshops will be offered throughout “marché Off”, offering a different festive experience, with an eye on the future and a desire to create a more local Christmas.
The marché Off is expected to take place from 24 November to 24 December 2024.
My favourite places for local food
I trust you know that Alsace is widely known for its gastronomy and fine wines. A trip to the Christmas market will allow you to taste a small selection of typical dishes and/or ones that have been reinvented for the event. I’m thinking in particular of classics like tarte flambée on baguette, munstiflette, and spätzele… Look out for stalls where the staff have an Alsatian accent as these are bound to have real local food. And don’t forget to try the mulled wine (white or red, the choice is yours) or the hot apple/orange juice.
If you prefer to eat inside after a good day’s walk, I recommend Vieille Enseigne, Binchtsub, and Au Vieux Strasbourg, … You’re spoilt for choice!
Make sure you have a look outside Strasbourg too if you can. I personally find that the “winstubs” (typical Alsatian restaurants) outside Strasbourg have far more delicious and hearty fare. I recommend Le Marronnier in Stutzheim, L’Aigle in Pfulgrisheim, and La Charrue in Breuschwickersheim (bonus point if you can pronounce the names of these villages on the first try!)
Other Christmas markets around Strasbourg
Once again, get off the beaten track if possible and discover the Christmas markets in the small Alsatian villages, not necessarily away from the crowds though as their typical character appeals to many.
I’m thinking in particular of the Christmas markets in places like Ribauvillé, Kaysersbeg, Eguisheim, Riquewihr, Colmar, Obernai… I’ll stop there because I’m sure by now you understand that Christmas is a very important tradition in Alsace and all the villages put up their most impressive decorations to celebrate this unique time of year.
As you’ve seen, the Christmas period in Alsace is a celebration of sharing, traditions, but also modernity. The Christmas market is, therefore, a reflection of Strasbourg’s image: staunchly rooted in its rich historical past, yet always willing to renew itself.
So happy discoveries to all, and don’t forget to toast a little mulled wine to my health… S’gilt!
