Christmas in Avignon - Photo credit: Sylvie VillegerChristmas in Avignon - Photo credit: Sylvie Villeger
©Christmas in Avignon - Photo credit: Sylvie Villeger|Sylvie Villeger

HO,HO,HO!

The streets of the town are decked out in their finest finery and lit up as night falls. There’s a special atmosphere in the air – there’s no doubt it’s almost Christmas!

ValentineValentine
©Valentine
Chloé Mariani

A native of Avignon and very attached to my city, I've been working at the Tourist Office for the past fifteen years. Passionate about culture and food, I love to share my tips, favorites and discoveries with you!

As December approaches, I get all excited.
I’ve been completely gaga over Christmas ever since I was a little girl, an enthusiasm that was passed on to me by my mother and that leaves me with many fond memories. And since my little boy was born, I’ve been having a ball. Decorating, writing to Father Christmas, shopping… I don’t know who’s happier, my little one or me! Shows, parades, Christmas markets, nativity scenes, fireworks… it’s going to be a busy schedule!

For gourmets and food lovers :

Christmas Market

The traditional Christmas market in Place Saint-Jean le Vieux is a must.

Twenty or so wooden chalets offer gift ideas (jewellery, clothes, wooden toys, cuddly toys, etc.) as well as quality gourmet specialities for the festive table (chocolates, biscuits, jams, gingerbread, etc.). I love strolling around at the end of the day to the sound of Christmas carols and a glass of mulled wine.

For young and old alike:

Parades, guided tour and fireworks

A highlight of the end-of-year festivities, the Saturday afternoon parades are a delight for young and old alike.

Even if we have to brave the winter cold, I wouldn’t miss this outing for the world. Seeing my little boy with a smile on his face and stars in his eyes just makes my heart beat faster.

Other ideas...

Another idea for a family outing to discover the traditions of Christmas in Provence is a guided tour of the cots and santons on display in various places in the historic centre.

The icing on the Christmas cake is the fireworks display on the banks of the Rhône on 23 December, a fitting way to end the year. It’s guaranteed to amaze!

For the full programme of end-of-year festivities:

The turkey’s roasting in the oven, the presents are under the tree, Loulou is waiting with bated breath for Father Christmas… everything is in place for a magical evening.

Merry Christmas to you all!