Six Christmas Markets
in the historic town
Each of Colmar's six Christmas Markets is a separate mini-village with its own collection of passionate craftsmen. Installed in squares with their own architectural signature, these islands of festivity reflect the character of the city hosting them: friendly and authentic.
For six weeks, the whole of Old Colmar, miraculously protected from the vicissitudes of history, becomes one huge multi-faceted Christmas Market. Here, as you browse round the 180 stalls, you really feel the magic of Christmas seeping into you. It's all about experiencing the wonder of a child again; it's not something you can control, you just have to feel it.
In Colmar, miracles do happen… But a huge amount of preparation work goes on behind the scenes: maintaining the chalets, putting up the decorations and lights, organising entertainment, overseeing the installation of the stands and selecting exhibitors. The exhibitors, mostly from Alsace, are selected on the basis of the quality and originality of their products.
This is also an inspiring time of year for the artists and craftsmen exhibiting their work in the impressive Renaissance Koïfhus (the old customs building). Whether its a traditional Advent speciality, a winter-themed work of art or a contemporary decorative item, the impulse buy definitely plays a part here.
A Christmas market in Colmar for gourmets that will be located Rue de la montagne verte
Gourmet market - Rue de la montagne verte
For the end of year celebrations, Colmar has a market ... all in flavors!
9 cabins, 9 chefs, master restaurateurs who will concoct divine dishes ... From the starter to dessert, oysters, Alsatian specialties ... everyone will find his happiness! Plates to eat on site (standing bar will be available to visitors) or take away, with friends and family.
A culinary show: to give a little spice to your appetizers, renowned chefs will come to fill you the sight and the senses, the time of a culinary show in the center of the market.
Place des Dominicains
Overlooking the Market, the elegant Eglise des Dominicains lights up at night with its spectacular 14th century stained glass windows, making this remarkable square even more stunning.
Browse round this Market with its sixty or so little wooden chalets and let yourself be tempted by an original decoration which will make your Christmas tree the happiest of all pine trees!
Place de l’Ancienne Douane
In the heart of the old city, this square has around fifty chalets arranged around the imposing Schwendi fountain. Once night comes, the imposing old customs building or Koïfhus is adorned with lights illuminating a magnificent Renaissance stairway.
The Market, which is set up on both sides of the Lauch river, extends right up to the porch of the Koïfhus. Clearly, the old business heart of the City is still beating! Here, contemporary creations can be found alongside traditional Christmas decorations. The perfect gift for your memory box is waiting for you!
Place Jeanne d’Arc
This Market recreates the atmosphere of a traditional Alsace village. Dedicated to local products, it offers a whole host of tasty treats like foie gras, cold meats, wine, liqueurs (schnapps), biscuits (bredalas), and many other temptations to be enjoyed on the basis that "you only live once" !
Surrounded by a set of buildings ranging from traditional half-timbered dwellings to the purest classic French style, the Market offers visitors a wonderful glimpse of the turbulent history of Alsace. A story that is also told through its specific architectural features.
Christmas Market Place des Six Montagnes noires
The original alignment of the half-timbered houses on either side of the River Lauch gave this emblematic area of Colmar its name, la Petite Venise, which is transformed into a real kids' paradise at Christmas. Let yourself be guided by the little ones as they gaze in wonder at the rabbits or sheep and wander around the wooden chalets, before taking a break to admire the mechanical nativity.
They won't be able to to leave this market without the usual delights: a drink of mulled apple juice, a ride on the horses and posting their letter in Santa's Giant Letter Box.
Indoor Craft Market
This impressive mediaeval building has some wonderful surprises in store for you to enjoy in the warmth. Here, you'll be able to admire the creations of about twenty local craftsmen and women.
Ceramicists, potters, master glass-makers, cabinetmakers, wood sculptors, hat-makers, jewellery makers and other artisans carrying on the traditional skills of a whole region will be delighted to share their passion with you.