Sélestat: Alsace's Christmas tree capital
As the "tree of life" and representing a combination of several pagan rites, the tradition of the Christmas tree can trace its historical roots back to antiquity. Originally decorated with hosts and red apples, (symbols of the fruits of redemption and temptation) Christmas trees were first mentioned in Sélestat, in a document dating from 1521 which is today housed and displayed in the Humanist Library.
Sélestat belongs to the network of "Christmas Cities". This is a network of Christmas Cities sharing the common goal of representing their traditions at the Christmas Exhibition in Rovaniemi (Finland), which is dedicated to presenting Christmas around the world.
26/11/2010 - 28/11/2010
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Christmas marketLittle chalets present Christmas decorations, crafts and gifts. Selestat |
26/11/2010 - 23/12/2010
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The Christmas tree gardenSelestat |
26/11/2010 - 02/01/2011
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The first written mention of the Christmas treeThe date of 21 December 1521 is consigned in the Town's accounts Selestat |
26/11/2010 - 09/01/2011
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History of the Christmas tree (exibition)It is in St-George's nave, hung up to the archs, that 8 Christmas Trees will retrace the evolution of the decoration of this symbolic tree, from the 16th century to nowadays. Selestat |
27/11/2010 - 23/12/2010
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Exposition souvenirs d'enfanceSelestat |
28/11/2010
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Guided tour - Discovering of the Christmas traditionsSelestat |
03/12/2010 - 05/12/2010
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Christmas marketLittle chalets present Christmas decorations, crafts and gifts. Selestat |
04/12/2010 - 24/12/2010
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Christmas trees marketChristmas trees producers will propose you differents varieties of christmas trees Selestat |
04/12/2010 - 24/12/2010
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Art Craftsmen Christmas marketSelestat |
06/12/2010
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St. Nicolas paradeSaint-Nicolas, escorted by the dreadful Whipping Father, will greet the crowd packed on his route up from his float. By his side, small angels accompanied with music, will distribute hands full of sweets to every wise child. Selestat |
