The Christmas markets in Provence set up shop throughout the region starting in November. From November 14 to December 31, the Bouches-du-Rhône department hosts dozens of festive events.
Aix-en-Provence, Marseille, Aubagne, La Ciotat, and Salon-de-Provence are organizing their 2025 Christmas markets. These traditional events celebrate the spirit of Christmas in Provence with authenticity. You'll find artisanal chalets, local products, and santons.
The festive atmosphere enlivens the town centers of each municipality. Local producers offer Provençal cuisine and culinary specialties. Artisans display their handmade creations, perfect as gift ideas.
Children's entertainment, shows, and light decorations complete these end-of-year outings. These markets are a true Provençal Christmas tradition. Here is our selection of the most beautiful Christmas markets in the region to fully experience the Christmas holidays and plan your December days with your family.
Aix-en-Provence: the Cours Mirabeau Christmas market
The Aix-en-Provence Christmas market is held on Cours Mirabeau from November 14 to December 31. Christmas markets always take place on these dates. This must-see destination offers 49 artisan chalets under century-old plane trees. You will discover carefully selected regional products and local crafts.
The santons fair takes place on the Allées Provençales at the same time. Artisans display their traditional creations in a warm atmosphere. The city center comes alive every day from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., with late-night openings until 8 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.
Entertainment sets the pace for December days. Provençal cuisine can be sampled at every stand. From mulled wine to calissons, sweet and savory specialties delight all visitors.
Marseille: Christmas markets in the Old Port
Marseille hosts the oldest Christmas market in the region. The Old Port sets up its stalls from November 22, 2025, to January 4, 2026. This 223rd edition of the santons fair brings together 21 renowned santon makers.
The main Christmas market takes place on La Canebière and Place du Général de Gaulle. More than 60 exhibitors showcase their handmade creations. Jewelry, ceramics, wooden toys, and natural soaps are among the items on offer at the chalets.
Local producers offer their regional products. A festive atmosphere fills the port every day. The lights are reflected in the water from the end of November, creating a magical atmosphere.
Aubagne: capital of santons and ceramics
Aubagne organizes its santon market from November 15 to December 28. This town in the Bouches-du-Rhône department remains the ultimate destination for collectors. Forty-four santon artisans showcase their ancestral craftsmanship.
The market is open every day from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. in the town center. Each creation reflects a centuries-old tradition. The hand-painted clay figurines represent characters from the Provençal nativity scene.
Demonstration workshops immerse you in this unique art form. This outing combines cultural discovery with Christmas shopping. There is no shortage of authentic gift ideas in this iconic location.
Avignon: a Christmas market at the foot of the Palais des Papes
The Avignon Christmas market is set up at the foot of the Saint-Jean tower until December 28. The Place de l'Horloge is home to dozens of wooden chalets. This Christmas village is open every day from 11 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., and until 9 p.m. on Saturdays.
The historical heritage enhances the festive atmosphere. Local designers and producers showcase their artisanal products. Rhône wines, olive oils, and pottery make up the local selection.
Children's activities and street performances enrich the program. The Provençal nativity scene set up in the Église des Célestins is worth a visit. This beautiful destination combines history and festivities in a unique setting.
Arles: Camargue traditions and Christmas spirit
Arles celebrates Christmas from December 5 to 24 on the Place de la République. The Salon International des Santonniers (International Santon Fair) takes place in the Chapelle Sainte Anne from November 15 to January 18. These two events have made the city famous.
This traditional Christmas market showcases Camargue crafts and traditions. The stalls offer Provençal herbs, Marseille soaps, and local culinary specialties. Crafts rub shoulders with gourmet products in a friendly atmosphere.
Light parades and concerts bring the city to life. Activities include reenactments of traditional Christmas Eve celebrations. This authentic experience reveals the Provençal spirit of the holiday season.
Other smaller Christmas markets to visit?
Provence also hides more intimate gems. These villages offer an authentic experience away from the crowds. The atmosphere remains warm and family-friendly.
The Tarascon Christmas market is held at the end of November in the historic center. This town on the banks of the Rhône celebrates traditions with Provençal costumes and storytellers. The santon-making workshops attract craft enthusiasts.
The Cassis Christmas market enjoys an exceptional setting between the sea and the calanques. Local producers showcase their seafood specialties and renowned white wines. The port is decked out in lights that reflect off the water.
The Gordes Christmas market is held in one of the most beautiful villages in France. Perched on a rock, it offers breathtaking views of the Luberon. The medieval streets welcome regional artisans and creators in a magical atmosphere.
The Carpentras Christmas market focuses on Provençal cuisine. Black truffles, artisanal nougats, and aged cheeses make up the bulk of the stalls. This gourmet town delights lovers of exceptional products and authentic flavors.
What activities are planned for the Christmas markets?
The activities at the Christmas markets set the pace for your days in Provence. Each town offers a family-friendly program to celebrate Christmas in Provence. Events run from morning until evening.
Children's shows take center stage. Puppets, Christmas stories, and magic captivate the youngest visitors. Santa Claus welcomes children to his chalet to hear their wishes. Concerts enliven the squares and streets. Gospel choirs, folk groups, and orchestras perform regularly. Provençal music rubs shoulders with traditional Christmas carols.
Strolling around is part of the experience. Street performers move between the chalets. Stilt walkers, traveling musicians, and fairy-tale characters create a unique atmosphere. Each town organizes its own grand light parade. Decorated floats parade through the illuminated streets. Dancers, giant mascots, and marching bands accompany the festive procession.
Craft demonstrations introduce you to local skills. Santon makers shape clay before your eyes. Glassblowers, potters, and ironworkers share their passion. Family activities take place throughout the day. Traditional rides, ice rinks, and educational farms entertain young and old alike. Carriage and pony rides complete the offering.
Creative workshops allow you to make your own decorations. Wreath making, wood painting, and candle making are all on the program. You can take your handmade creations home with you.
We hope you have a wonderful time experiencing the magic of Christmas in Provence!