Metz Christmas Market 2026 Dates for 5 Unique Locations

Five squares, five different markets, and a Gothic cathedral with the second-largest expanse of stained glass in France. The Metz Christmas Market threads through a compact old town where everything is within walking distance, and you’ll hear German alongside French thanks to the city’s position near the border with Luxembourg and Germany.

Metz Christmas Market 2026

Dates and Location

Status: Expected, based on previous years
Metz dates: 20th November to 30th December 2026
Last checked: June 2026
Source: Explore Grand Est Tourism

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Location: Place d’Armes, Place de la République, Place Saint-Louis, Place Saint-Jacques and Place de Chambre.
Opening times: 11am to 7pm.
Christmas Day: Closed.
Admission: Free.
Lights: The Sentier des Lanternes light trail is located on Ile du Petit Saulcy, behind the Salle Fabert.
Place Saint-Louis: 13th century houses and arcades become illuminated each evening.
Santa: Children can meet Santa on Saint Nicholas’ Day at Place de la Comédie.
Ice skating: Place de la République.
Ferris wheel: The 60 metre Big Wheel is located at Place d’Armes.
Gourmet food: Place de Chambre.
Vegetarian: Plenty of options.
Vegan: Plenty of options.
Gluten free: Limited.
Accessible: Yes.
Pet-friendly: Yes, but not recommended during busy periods.
Parking: Please take public transport to help limit congestion.
Reason to visit: Expansive selection; homage to glassmaking tradition; under cathedral’s illumination; spiced mulled wine scent in the air.
Specialities: Artisanal breads and pastries; Metz beer; Mirabelle plum liqueur.
Where to stay: La Citadelle is 4 minutes from the events.

Central Hotels

To be close to Place d’Armes and Place de la République, I recommend staying at La Citadelle, which is ideally situated near the markets.

Read our complete guide to the French Christmas markets.

Location

What to Expect

Place d’Armes features the 60-metre Ferris wheel, while Place Saint-Louis showcases illuminated 13th-century medieval houses. Place de la République hosts ice skating, Place Saint-Jacques houses Moselle-certified local craft chalets, and Place de Chambre focuses on gourmet food stalls run by Metz restaurant owners.

The compact city centre makes it easy to walk between all five locations. Saint Nicolas’ Days feature family-friendly activities and performances across multiple locations, including Place de la Comédie and the Opera House.

Regional Specialties

• Quiche Lorraine – Regional savoury pie with cream, eggs, cheese, and bacon from the Lorraine region.
• Tarte aux Mirabelles – Lorraine speciality tart made with local Mirabelle plums, small yellow fruit with a sweet flavour.
• Mirabelle Plum Liqueur – Regional liqueur made from local Mirabelles.
• Metz Beer – Local brewery specialities from the region.
• Flammekueche – Thin pizza with cream, onions, and bacon, shared with neighbouring Alsace.
• Bûche de Noël – Traditional French Christmas log cake with chocolate ganache.
• Vin Chaud – French mulled wine with regional spices.

Gifts and Souvenirs

• Lorraine Faience Pottery – Traditional regional craft with hand-painted pieces.
• Mirabelle Plum Products – Various products made from Lorraine’s native Mirabelle plums.
• Regional Wines – Alsace-Lorraine wines, including Riesling, Gewürztraminer, and Crémant sparkling wine.
• Handmade Textiles – Variety of locally crafted fabric items.
• Decorations – Festive ornaments and seasonal items.
• Artisanal Cheese – French regional cheeses from local producers.

Sustainability Tips

• Green Hotels – Choose a hotel that is low waste and conserves energy and other resources.
• Food Waste Reduction – Share food portions with travel companions to reduce waste at market stalls.
• Local Products – Prioritise locally made and ethically sourced Lorraine region products.
• Regional Food Choices – Opt for plant-based, locally sourced food items.
• Public Transport – Use Metz’s extensive bus network to get around.

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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.