THE GUIDE WINTER BREAKS 2017/18


Sélestat is known as the ‘home of the Christmas tree’


and warming vin chaud. November 17 – December 27 www.noel-a-lille.com


Marché de Noël de Montbéliard


discover the history of the Christmas tree


In Alsace,


Sélestat, 1521 - the origins of this most yuletide of traditions! You will find magical exhibitions, entertainment and surprises along the way.


Located in Franche-Comté, the town of Montbéliard – which is well-known for its hospitality – turns into a space of enchantment in the weeks leading up to Christmas. During Advent, Montbéliard revives the tradition of historic Württemberg and organises a Christmas market like no other, with 160 stalls selling authentic, high- quality items. Take a stroll down streets perfumed with cinnamon, honey and gingerbread, and discover a variety of arts and crafts, music and gastronomic delights. Foie gras, saucisse de Montbéliard, cheese, mulled wine and biscuits can all be found here, as well as ceramics, wooden toys and paints. This year, the market’s guest of honour is Corsica, so guests can look forward to traditions and crafts with a Corsican twist. November 25 – December 24 www.lumieres-de-noel.fr


Noël à Sélestat


Find out more on : www.selestat-haut-koenigsbourg.com


Christmas in Sélestat is a magical affair with festivities reaching into the New Year. Families, friends, couples and children can all enjoy the exhibitions, events, concerts and skating rink, plus a visit from Saint Nicolas himself on December 6 and a jubilant Christmas Tree Parade on


150 ❘ FRANCE TODAY Oct/Nov 2017 FT164.WINTER BREAK GUIDE.indd 150 08/09/2017 15:05 Unt


December 17. After all, it’s said that Sélestat started the tradition of decorating Christmas trees! The main market is open for most of December and is packed with stalls selling mulled wine, Christmas cakes, biscuits and other delicious goodies. December 1 – December 24 www.selestat.fr


FESTIVALS Fête de la Dinde Symbol of Yuletide dinner plates everywhere, the hapless turkey is honoured at this quirky festival in the village of Licques, Pas-de-Calais. Each year, guests fl ock to the Place de la Mairie to witness the gaggle of birds parading through the streets, accompanied by colourfully dressed chaperones. It’s not all about turkey-ogling, however (although that is the highlight); spectators can also enjoy wine, cheese and other bites from the gourmet food market to get into the festive spirit. Make sure to try the Licquoise – a local liqueur brewed in a giant cauldron! December 9 – 10 www.northernfrance-tourism.com


La Folle Journée Perhaps it’s the Christmas carols, but classical music just seems to go hand in hand with the festive season. La Folle Journée in Nantes is a dressed-down classical music festival for everyone – that is, it strips away the pretentiousness commonly tied to this genre by creating a comfortable, casual ❯❯


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