Amiens Christmas Market 2026: Visit the Somme this Winter

The Amiens Christmas Market is best known for its Chroma light show, which projects vivid colours across the facade of France’s largest Gothic cathedral each evening during Advent. The city’s floating gardens, the hortillonnages, are worth knowing about too, though the market itself stays compact and focused on regional Picardy produce.

Amiens Christmas Market 2026

Dates and Location

Status: Confirmed
Amiens dates: 20th November to 30th December 2026
Last checked: July 2026
Source: Marché de Noël d’Amiens

Location: Place Notre Dame.
Opening times:
Sunday to Thursday: 11am to 7:30pm.
Friday and Saturday: 11am to 9pm.
Christmas Eve: 11am to 5pm.
Christmas Day: Closed.
30th December: 11am to 5pm.
Admission: Free.
Lights: Evening Chroma light show at Notre-Dame Cathedral, 7pm.
Santa: Yes.
Ice skating: No.
Vegetarian: Yes, plenty of options.
Vegan: Yes, plenty of options.
Gluten free: Yes, but limited.
Accessible: Yes.
Pet-friendly: Yes, but not recommended during busy periods.
Parking: Please take public transport to help limit congestion.
Reason to visit: UNESCO cathedral backdrop, 130 chalets, Father Christmas for kids, mulled beer for adults.
Specialities: Waffles, chocolate pancakes, tartiflette.
Where to stay: Mercure Amiens Cathédrale is located 100 metres from the square.

Convenient Hotels

The historic city centre is the best area to stay for quick access to Place Notre Dame. A convenient choice is the Mercure Amiens Cathédrale, which is well-located near the market.

Read our complete France Christmas Markets guide.

Location

What to Expect

Amiens is known for its illuminated Notre-Dame Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which adds grandeur to the holiday festivities. The spectacular “Chroma” light and sound show illuminates the cathedral, making it the market’s main attraction.

The market features 130 chalets lining the main shopping streets. While much smaller than other regional markets, it offers a charming atmosphere that is perfect for combining with Somme battlefield visits. Time your battlefield trip to coincide with the market’s opening hours to experience both.

Father Christmas engages with children, and there are merry-go-rounds to entertain young visitors, as well as food stalls offering regional Picardy specialities.

Picardy Regional Specialties

• Macarons d’Amiens – Almond-based pastries originating from Amiens with a soft texture, often flavoured with honey or fruit.
• Tartiflette – Potatoes, reblochon cheese, lardons and onions baked together.
• Ficelle Picarde – Ham and mushroom crêpes baked in cream sauce.
• Locally-Made Mulled Beer – Local beer combined with warming spices.
• Picardy Cheeses – Regional varieties from northern France.
• Waffles – Served hot and dusted with powdered sugar.
• Chocolate Pancakes – Fluffy pancakes with chocolate sauce.

Gifts and Souvenirs

• Picardy Pottery – Hand-painted ceramics with local landscape designs.
• Lace Products – Doilies, tablecloths, and clothing items from local artisans.
• Local Honey – Jars from the Picardy region with varying flavours.
• French Linens – High-quality cotton linens in various colours and patterns.
• Wooden Toys – Traditional toys crafted by local artisans.
• Hand-painted Ornaments – Delicate ornaments reflecting French culture.
• Christmas Wreaths – Handmade with locally sourced foliage.
• Gourmet Food Baskets – Local produce, including cheeses, sausages, and jams.
• Fine Liquors – Regional wines, brandies, and liqueurs from Picardy.

Sustainability Tips

• Eco-friendly Hotels – Choose a hotel that features energy conservation programmes and waste reduction measures.
• Reduce Food Waste – Consider sharing dishes or ordering smaller portions; many vendors use locally sourced ingredients.
• Conscious Purchasing – Buy only items you genuinely need, focusing on locally made Picardy goods to support the regional economy.
• Sustainable Food Choices – Choose plant-based or vegetarian options available at the market for a more sustainable diet.
• Sustainable Transport – Use Amiens’ efficient public transport system, including trams and buses, or explore the city centre on foot.
• Combine Visits – Time your Somme battlefield visits with the market dates to maximise sustainable transport and experience both attractions.

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Recommendations are independently chosen based on personal travel experiences and extensive research. While we make every effort to provide accurate information, the dates and details listed here should not be relied upon as definitive. Please consult the official website before booking your trip or planning a visit.