Taste the magic of France and visit the local Christmas markets. Nancy is a city that becomes the center of festive celebrations at Christmas and attracts visitors with its magical atmosphere.
Delight your senses with attractions and treats at 8 Advent markets and your eyes with beautiful Christmas decorations and beautiful historic architecture.
Christmas Markets in Nancy
Discover the magic of Christmas at eight Advent markets in Nancy, a city with a rich history and a unique atmosphere. If you want to experience wonderful moments full of lights, music, and traditional tastes, be sure to take a trip to France.
You can find Christmas-themed activities throughout the city during the holidays. You can look forward to a Christmas village, illumination of the shack, Christmas decorations, and an abundance of stalls.
22. 11. 2024 – 5. 1. 2025
Starting November 22, Nancy turns into a cheerful winter wonderland!
Saint Nicolas, the protector of Lorraine and the kids, has his own fun celebrations here. You can wander through the lively Saint-Nicolas markets, enjoy some tasty gingerbread, and check out the beautiful lights in the UNESCO-listed Place Stanislas. Until January 5, 2025, this charming city is all about embracing your inner child!
What does each market offer?
On the weekends of December 7 and 8, Nancy celebrates Saint Nicolas. This event is fun for the whole family! On Saturday, a Grand Parade features floats, brass bands, colorful merry-go-rounds, and many musicians and performers. People of all ages watch in excitement as the parade moves through the streets. You can greet Saint Nicolas and collect some sweets along the way. The parade ends at the beautiful Place Stanislas, which is voted France’s favorite monument and considered one of the most stunning squares in Europe!
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Sound-and-Light Show in Place Stanislas
After nightfall, the façades of Place Stanislas come alive in an enchanting spectacle designed for the Saint Nicolas Celebrations. The legend of the Patron Saint of Lorraine unfolds on the stunning façade of Nancy’s town hall. Enjoy a vividly colorful and modern video mapping show. This magical sound-and-light experience is perfect for families and will be available until early January.
Saint Nicolas’ villages
Numerous markets are held throughout the city, featuring wooden chalets adorned with twinkling fairy lights. These markets, located in Nancy’s iconic squares, will enchant you and immerse you in the magic of the festive season. Take a ride on the merry-go-round at the Village de la Marmaille on Place de la Carrière, savor a traditional glass of mulled wine on Place Vaudémont, and gather Christmas present ideas on Place Charles III. There are delights for both young and old alike!
The main Saint Nicholas village
Over 60 Christmas market chalets are set up in the stunning Place Charles III between the covered market and the Saint-Sébastien shopping center. These chalets offer a variety of gift ideas, local products, and delicious seasonal treats like mulled wine and gingerbread—perfect for the holiday season! A highlight of the market is the local arts and crafts section, which surrounds a beautiful traditional merry-go-round placed in the heart of the village. It’s definitely a must-see!
New – The Village Under The Craffe Gate
The village provides a friendly, festive, and cozy atmosphere during the Saint Nicholas celebrations. Visitors can enjoy local drinks, beers, and high-quality street food. Some of the delicious offerings include crème brûlée with foie gras, homemade salmon gravlax, and toasted bread topped with local products.
The square looks amazing at night when it is lit up with bonfires and lighted garlands and scented with mulled wine and roasted chestnuts.
Saint Nicholas Gourmet Village, Place Vaudémont
If you’re looking for lunch, a tea break, or a drink before dinner, you’ll enjoy the cozy and welcoming atmosphere of the Saint Nicholas gourmet market, especially as the evening approaches. With options like mulled wine, before-dinner snacks, soup, and delightful tea-time treats, there’s something delicious for everyone around the square’s restaurants.
Ferris Wheel Village
The Ferris Wheel has become a beloved feature of our Festival of Saint Nicholas. It provides breathtaking views of the 18th-century district and the Old Town. Below it, classic fairground rides entertain both young and old, while the warmth of the braziers can enjoy food and drinks.
Village under the Porte des Vosges
With a hint of a mountain atmosphere, the three cabins offer comforting winter specialties such as fondue, charcuterie platters, and mulled wine. Additionally, concerts, snacks for children, and a variety of activities, including an exhibition featuring local artists and creators, are all within the heart of the Le Chardon restaurant.
There are three more villages that are in a similar spirit of Christmas in Nancy:
- The village “Le Bois des 3 petits enfants” on Place Simone Veil
- Place Saint-Epvre: Santa Claus’ daughter, Black Peter’s son
- The “Trois Barbus” village in Allée Mercure
Take a little trip to France now and visit the Christmas markets in Nancy via the video below:
Why visit the Advent markets in Nancy?
The Christmas markets in Nancy are a great way to experience the magic of Christmas in a unique historical setting. In the markets, you will find handmade Christmas decorations and gifts and Alsatian and Lorraine specialties. The whole program is wonderfully complemented by a light and sound show that will amaze you.
In addition, the city has a convenient location. It is easily accessible by train, car, and bus from Paris and from nearby cities in Germany, Switzerland, and Belgium.
Nancy is not the only city with a charming festive atmosphere. Discover the Christmas magic of other places where you can visit unforgettable French Christmas markets.