Between 1871 and 1945, Alsace changed hands between France and Germany four times, and you can taste that contested history in every market stall: bredele biscuits alongside pain d’épices, vin chaud poured next to Glühwein, and choucroute garnie served from wooden chalets that look more Bavarian than Burgundian.
The Christmas markets in Alsace are scattered across dozens of towns from Strasbourg in the north to Mulhouse in the south, connected by the wine route villages that make this region unlike anything else in Europe.
Christmas Markets in Alsace
Strasbourg and Colmar remain massively popular as two of Europe’s top markets, so consider visiting both for the whole Alsatian experience, or choose one of the smaller markets to avoid the crowds.
Dates
Status: Expected, based on previous years
Alsace dates: 20th November to 29th December 2026 (specific dates vary by market – see below).
Last checked: July 2026
Update: Last year’s dates were finalised in April. Sign up for our newsletter to be notified of changes.
Our Top Picks
Looking for a specific market? Skip to the full list ↓.
1. Strasbourg
Known locally as Christkindelsmärik, Strasbourg’s market is France’s oldest, dating back to 1570. I visited with my family and found it great for us because it’s very walkable and easy to get around with my elderly parents.
The 30-metre Great Christmas Tree in Place Kléber serves as the centrepiece. At the same time, over 300 wooden chalets spread across the historic Grande Île district offer handmade toys, artisanal gifts, and traditional Alsatian treats, such as bredele biscuits and mulled wine.
Read the complete Strasbourg Christmas Market guide.
Stay near the event by booking one of these hotels in Strasbourg.
2. Colmar
I visited Colmar with my partner, which was nice as it’s smaller, cosier, and a little more romantic, with all the canals and small, family-owned restaurants. The pedestrianised town centre features architectural styles from the Middle Ages to the 19th century.
The town hosts six distinctive markets, including ‘Children’s Land’ in the park, with traditional wooden toys and an old-fashioned carousel. Markets at Place des Dominicains and Place Jeanne d’Arc showcase regional specialties and crafts.
Read the complete Colmar Christmas Market guide.
Book one of our recommended hotels in Colmar.
3. Riquewihr
This medieval village is situated among vineyards and ancient walls, with half-timbered façades decorated for winter celebrations. The market offers handicrafts alongside traditional treats, such as spice bread, bretzels, and hot chestnuts.
The village’s preserved medieval architecture creates an authentic backdrop for browsing artisan stalls and sampling regional specialties.
Read the complete Riquewihr Christmas Market guide.
4. Mulhouse
Mulhouse showcases its textile industry heritage by draping building facades with special fabric each year, creating a distinctive visual appeal. The tradition of Christmas cloth, unique to the city, sets it apart from other Alsatian markets.
The market on Place de la Réunion features the vibrant fabric prominently in decorations around Saint-Etienne church. Local artisans craft items from the Christmas cloth, making exclusive gifts.
Read the complete Mulhouse Christmas Market guide.
5. Kaysersberg
This town centres its celebrations around age-old Advent traditions, with timber-framed houses and cobblestone streets illuminated for the season. The market prioritises traditional craftsmanship with wooden chalets set against a 17th-century historic backdrop.
Kaysersberg Castle offers a scenic setting, while handpicked craftspeople showcase their distinctive creations throughout the historic alleys.
Read the complete Kaysersberg Christmas Market guide.
Complete List of Alsace Christmas Markets
Continue planning your trip with our French Christmas Market.
Find winter travel inspiration at the Best Christmas Markets in Europe.
- Colmar – See top picks above.
- Eguisheim – Circular village surrounded by vineyards offering authentic Alsatian experience with local crafts and festive treats in a unique spiral market path.
- Haguenau – Distinct market embodying Alsatian traditions with handcrafted items and local specialties in a warm, authentic atmosphere.
- Kaysersberg – See top picks above.
- Mulhouse – See top picks above.
- Obernai – Traditional market showcasing local artisans and regional specialties in one of Alsace’s most attractive towns.
- Riquewihr – See top picks above.
- Strasbourg – See top picks above.
Christmas in Alsace
Food Specialties
- Bretzel – Soft, doughy Alsatian version sprinkled with coarse salt, different from standard pretzels.
- Kougelhopf – Circular bundt-style cake with raisins, almonds, and cherry brandy.
- Choucroute – Fermented cabbage dish with various meats, occasionally available in smaller portions at market stalls.
- Vin Chaud d’Alsace – Regional mulled wine with unique spice blend and local wines.
- Flammekueche – Thin-crust dish topped with crème fraîche, onions, and bacon.
- Spätzle – Soft egg noodles often paired with cheese, showcasing rustic Alsatian cuisine.
- Manalas – Brioche buns shaped like little men, studded with raisins for Saint Nicholas festivities.
- Pain d’épices – Alsatian gingerbread with honey, aniseed, and spices, moulded into various shapes.
- Schnapps – Clear fruit brandy distilled regionally, available in various flavours.
Crafts and Souvenirs
- Alsatian Pottery – Vibrant colours and intricate designs serving as functional kitchenware and mementos.
- Handcrafted Ornaments – Artisanal pieces made from wood or glass.
Responsible Travel
- Eco-Friendly Hotels – Choose hotels championing green practices and use renewable energy sources.
- Mindful Eating – Order modestly at markets, enquire about portion sizes, and share dishes with travel companions to reduce food waste while sampling wider varieties.
- Ethical Consumption – Purchase items you truly love or need, such as one handcrafted ornament from local artisans, rather than multiple decorative items.
- Sustainable Food – Look for dishes that use plant-based, seasonal, and local ingredients.
- Transport – Use efficient public transport options like trains and buses, or explore cities like Strasbourg and Colmar on foot or by bike.
Further Information
For comprehensive winter destination guides and trip-planning tips, explore Visit Alsace, the official regional website, which provides details on top seasonal spots.
What Do You Think?
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Recommendations are independently chosen based on personal travel experiences and extensive research.
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