The Bordeaux Christmas Market and other Christmas Markets
If you’re thinking of experiencing the magic of Christmas in one of France’s most beautiful cities, don’t miss the Bordeaux Christmas market. Every year, the Bordeaux Christmas market becomes one of the most special places to enjoy the festive atmosphere, the lights, the decorations and the delicious gastronomy typical of these dates.
Would you like to discover it? Join us on our free tour of Bordeaux and let yourself be enveloped by the Christmas spirit.
What is the Bordeaux Christmas market?
The Bordeaux Christmas market is an annual event held in the heart of this iconic French city. For several weeks, from the end of November to the end of December, the streets and squares of Bordeaux come alive with the spirit of Christmas, offering locals and visitors a unique experience full of magic and festivity.
Location and dates
The Bordeaux Christmas market takes place every year on the Allées de Tourny, in the heart of Bordeaux’s old town, from 11 December to 21 December. This strategic location allows visitors to easily explore other nearby attractions, making a visit to the market part of a wider experience through the epicentre of this fantastic city.
What you’ll find at the Bordeaux Christmas market
As well as being a place to buy gifts, the Bordeaux Christmas market is an immersive cultural experience. Here, visitors find local crafts and enjoy live performances that capture the essence of Christmas.
Christmas flavours
One of the main attractions of the Christmas market is the wide range of products typical of the region and the gastronomy of Bordeaux. You can’t leave without trying some of these delicacies:
- Cannelés: small flute-shaped biscuits, caramelised on the outside and soft on the inside, typical of Bordeaux.
- Foie gras: one of the star products of regional gastronomy, ideal for spreading on bread or preparing canapés.
- Oysters: oysters from the Aquitaine region are famous for their quality and flavour. You can taste them freshly opened at the market.
- Bordeaux wines: you can’t miss some of the best wines in the world, such as the reds from the Médoc, Saint-Émilion and Pomerol appellations, or the whites from Graves and Sauternes.
At the same time, Bordeaux’s chocolatiers offer talent and creativity with their exquisite chocolates and sweets. Here you will find a selection of chocolate shops that are sure to satisfy your Christmas cravings:
In addition to gastronomic products, you’ll find a wide variety of Christmas decoration items at the market, such as tree decorations, nativity scenes, candles, garlands, etc. It is also a good place to buy original and handmade gifts.
Activities and entertainment
Beyond shopping, the Bordeaux Christmas market is a centre of entertainment. With a packed schedule of activities, including concerts, children’s workshops and live shows, it guarantees fun for everyone. The presence of a traditional carousel and a visit from Father Christmas add an extra touch of magic for the little ones.
Concerts and live music
One of the main attractions of the Christmas market are the concerts and live music performances. These events bring together local and international artists who fill the air with classic Christmas tunes, as well as modern interpretations that liven up the atmosphere. From choirs singing carols to bands performing rock and pop concerts with a Christmas twist, music becomes the soul of the market, creating a unique festive atmosphere.
Creative workshops for children
For the youngest visitors, the Bordeaux Christmas market is a place of creativity and learning thanks to the organisation of children’s workshops. These workshops range from decorating biscuits and creating Christmas decorations to art and craft sessions where children can create their own gifts.
Here, fun is combined with learning about the importance of tradition and sustainability while developing their creative skills.
Live shows and street entertainment
In addition to concerts, the market offers a wide variety of live entertainment that captures everyone’s imagination. Street performers, magicians, jugglers and actors in themed costumes provide roving entertainment, creating moments of surprise and delight at every turn. These often interactive performances add an element of spontaneity and fun that enriches the Bordeaux Christmas market experience.
The magical carousel and the visit of Father Christmas
The traditional carousel is an icon of Christmas in Bordeaux, attracting children and adults alike with its nostalgic charm. Spinning to the sound of Christmas music, it offers a magical journey that transports visitors to a world of dreams and fantasy.
The arrival of Father Christmas at the market is another highlight, giving children the opportunity to share their wishes and hopes for the season. Santa’s presence symbolises the spirit of giving and sharing that defines Christmas.
Commitment to sustainability
True to the city’s spirit of innovation and sustainability, the Bordeaux Christmas market places a special emphasis on environmentally friendly practices. From the use of recyclable materials to the promotion of local and sustainable products, this event shows how the Christmas tradition can contribute to a greener future.
Beyond Bordeaux’s Christmas market: iconic places to visit at Christmastime
If you’re wondering what to see in Bordeaux at Christmas, in addition to the Christmas market, the city has a number of iconic places that take on a special beauty during this special time of year.
- Place Pey-Berland: enjoy the impressive Christmas decorations and marvel at the imposing Christmas tree. The square becomes a magical setting for you to explore as you stroll around.
- Cours de l’Intendance: let yourself be captivated by the illumination that adorns this main street of Bordeaux during Christmas. The glowing cones and flashing lights create a festive and enchanting atmosphere that you won’t want to miss.
- Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux: don’t miss the opportunity to attend performances and concerts in this magnificent building. During the Christmas season, the Grand Théâtre is filled with special events that will surely impress you.
- Pey Berland Tower: Take in the panoramic views of Bordeaux from the top of this iconic tower. At Christmas, the tower is illuminated and becomes a symbol of the city.
- Bordeaux Stone Bridge: cross this picturesque bridge over the Garonne River and admire the Christmas lights and decorations that embellish the riverside scenery.
- Chartrons district: Immerse yourself in the charm of this historic Bordeaux neighbourhood. Its cobblestone streets and elegant buildings are transformed during Christmas, creating a unique and cosy atmosphere.
In short, if you’re still wondering whether it’s worth visiting Bordeaux at Christmas, the answer is a resounding yes. The Bordeaux Christmas market and all the activities the city has to offer at this time of year make it an ideal destination to experience the magic of Christmas in a unique and special setting. What are you waiting for to discover it for yourself?
