What will the Advent markets be like in Colmar? Program and important information in one place

For years, the Colmar and its Christmas Market has been one of the most beautiful Christmas markets to visit in France. 

The streets are filled with stalls, festive decorations, and twinkling lights that will enchant you. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking for a special Christmas experience.

Colmar has six Christmas markets in the heart of the historic town center. Each market has its own unique theme and creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. You can discover delightful items and enjoy the holiday spirit.

These markets are sure to please visitors of all ages.

Colmar Christmas Markets – Marché de Noël de Colmar

Experience the magic of Christmas in Colmar, France, which is famous for its picturesque streets and fairy-tale architecture. This year, you can look forward to six Christmas villages decorated with lights, which are located in several places in the historic part of the city. 

The magic of Christmas in Colmar begins at the end of November. In the heart of the historic old town, you’ll be captivated by the rows of houses and shops adorned with stunning decorations, drawing you into the enchanting world of Santa’s village. We’ve compiled a list of must-see attractions and activities to ensure you don’t miss any important events during your visit to the Colmar Christmas markets.

We recommend that you visit the markets during the week. There are many more visitors at the weekend, and your experience at the Advent markets might not be as pleasant.

Six Magical Christmas Markets

Colmar’s Christmas Markets consist of six markets spread throughout the town. We’ve compiled all the practical information you need to help you prepare for your visit to these markets.

Place des Dominicains – Colmar Christmas Market at Dominican Square

Colmar’s largest Christmas market is located at Dominican Square. The stunning, beautifully illuminated Dominican church dominates the market scene. You can also admire its remarkable 14th-century stained glass windows after dark thanks to the soft lighting. The square features around 60 stalls where you can purchase a variety of items, including mulled wine with Alsatian spices, Christmas specialties, gifts for your loved ones, and sumptuous Christmas decorations.

Old Customs House Christmas Market – Place de l’Ancienne Douane

This market is located around the beautiful Schwendi Fountain in the Old Customs House Square. Place de l’Ancienne features approximately 50 chalets that offer a variety of items, including traditional Alsatian crafts, handmade gifts, and local delicacies. As night falls, the former Customs House (Koïfhus) and its tiled roof are beautifully illuminated, enhancing the charm of the area.

Joan of Arc Square Christmas Market – Place Jeanne d’Arc Christmas Market

Located at Place Jeanne d’Arc, this market resembles a traditional Alsatian village. The market has an intimate feel and features Christmas houses, a church, and a small herd of goats. In the stalls you will find authentic local products that will allow you to live the most authentic gourmet experiences. You can enjoy, for example, the local specialty foie gras, cold meats, wine, brandy, or Christmas gingerbread.

Children’s Christmas Market in Little Venice – Petite Venise Christmas Market

If you want to give your little one a true children’s paradise, visit the market in Little Venice in Colmar. Live rabbits and sheep roam around the stalls, and a mechanical manger is on display for everyone to admire. At the stalls, hot apple juice will be prepared for the kids, and they can enjoy a merry-go-round filled with animals, including horses. Additionally, children will find a giant mailbox where they can send their Christmas wishes directly to Santa Claus.

Artisans’ Christmas Market in the Heart of the Koïfhus

The Christmas market at Koïfhus is the only indoor event held in the Old Customs House, which dates back to the 15th century. This market features local artists who sell handcrafted goods and vintage items. Here, you can find beautiful jewelry, pottery, wooden toys, antiquarian books, and even gingerbread houses and cookies. It’s the perfect market for anyone seeking unique gifts or souvenirs.

The Gourmet Christmas Market on Rue de la Montagne Verte – Marche Gourmand

If you’re looking to try something different from the typical Christmas market food, visit the Gourmet Market. This small market is located beneath the Ferris wheel and features nine gourmet food stalls. You can find dishes like black truffle risotto, fresh oysters, spaetzle with mushrooms, foie gras, smoked pork, and other delicious Alsatian specialties. Additionally, there is a wide selection of Alsatian wines from producers in Colmar and the surrounding area. The market also hosts live cooking shows on Thursdays and Fridays starting at 5 PM.

What else to do in Colmar?

Go Ice Skating

For more winter activities, head to Place Rapp. Here, you’ll find an 800-square-meter open ice rink, a merry-go-round for children, and even a rotating carousel bar!

Enjoy the Christmas Choirs

If you’re visiting Colmar on Wednesdays or Saturdays, be sure to catch the floating children’s choir! Every Wednesday and Saturday at 5 PM, you can listen to traditional Christmas carols performed by children’s choirs as they sail along the canals in Petite Venise on illuminated boats. It’s a truly unique experience!

Experience the Christmas Illuminations

During the holiday season, Colmar’s Old Town transforms into a fairytale setting adorned with thousands of garlands, toys, and twinkling lights. Some historic buildings, including St. Martin’s Church and the Old Customs House, also showcase stunning 3D mapping displays.

Why visit the Christmas markets in Colmar?

The Advent markets in this city are among the most beautiful in Europe. Their magical atmosphere and authenticity, combining history, tradition and modernity, simply won’t leave you alone. 

Markets are designed to awaken all your senses. You can look forward to the aroma of spices, the delicious taste of Alsatian sausage and fresh gingerbread, the stunning glow of the lights, and the warm Christmas atmosphere that will completely absorb you.