The magic of Christmas in Alsace begins on 25 November, on Saint Catherine’s day. Starting with the joyful effervescence of over thirty-five Christmas markets throughout the 7 Lands of Christmas, the celebration intensifies during the four weeks leading up to Christmas – the Advent – and finishes gently on 6 January with the Epiphany. During this period of preparation, houses and streets are decorated for Christmas and in this enchanting atmosphere it is not unusual to cross paths with Christkindel, Hans Trapp or Saint Nicolas, legendary Alsatian Christmas characters.

There are a thousand and one opportunities for gathering together to share the warm Christmas ambiance. Craftsmen’s workshops, evening storytelling, outdoor performances or joyful processions, the streets are simply teeming with entertainment…