Arras Christmas Market
The largest Christmas market in Northern France
About Christmas in Arras
Since 1990, the Arras Christmas Market has established itself as the largest and one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in northern France. Every year, from late November to late December, over 140 chalets from artisans and merchants set up on the Grand'Place and Place des Héros, two architectural gems listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites. A panoramic Ferris wheel, an ice rink, carousels, magical illuminations, and entertainment for the whole family make this event an unmissable holiday season rendezvous in the Hauts-de-France region.
Travel to this festival
Book your train or bus to reach Christmas in Arras at the best price.
Sponsored link
The Arras Christmas Market: A Magical Tradition in the Heart of Artois
For over thirty years, the Arras Christmas Market has illuminated the holiday season in the Hauts-de-France region. Located on the majestic Grand'Place and Place des Héros, both UNESCO World Heritage sites, this market offers an exceptional architectural setting for its visitors. The baroque Flemish facades are adorned with sparkling lights, creating a warm and enchanting atmosphere.
A Life-Sized Christmas Village
Over 140 wooden chalets host artisans, creators, and local producers showcasing their skills and quality products. Jewelry, ceramics, handmade Christmas decorations, wooden toys, textiles, and natural soaps are displayed alongside regional gastronomic specialties: waffles, mulled wine, chocolates, cheeses, foie gras, and other festive delicacies.
Attractions for All Ages
The market wouldn't be complete without its iconic attractions: the 35-meter Ferris wheel offering a panoramic view of the illuminated city, the outdoor ice rink, traditional carousels, and the enchanted labyrinth. Children can meet Santa Claus in his grotto and drop off their letters in the magical mailbox.
Entertainment and Shows
Throughout December, a rich program of entertainment enlivens the days and evenings: Christmas concerts, choirs, street performances, light parades, creative workshops for children, and tastings. Weekends are particularly festive with special events and pyrotechnic shows.
A Friendly and Family Atmosphere
The atmosphere of the Arras Christmas Market is unique: the warmth of the illuminated chalets, the scents of mulled wine and gingerbread, Christmas music, and the laughter of children create a moment of sharing and conviviality. Locals and visitors from across the region and beyond gather here every year to celebrate the magic of Christmas.
A Regional Event
With over 500,000 visitors each year, the Arras Christmas Market has become a major tourist event for the city and the region. It contributes to the vibrancy of the city center and the economic dynamism of local businesses during the holiday season. Its success continues, and each edition brings its share of novelties and surprises.
Christmas in Arras — edition 2026
The 37th edition of the Arras Christmas Market will take place from late November to late December 2026 on the Grand'Place and Place des Héros. The largest Christmas market in Northern France promises another magical edition with its chalets, Ferris wheel, and numerous activities.
37th Edition - Christmas 2026
The Arras Christmas Market returns for its 37th edition from late November to late December 2026. Visitors will find the usual must-sees: artisan chalets, a Ferris wheel, an ice rink, carousels, and entertainment for the whole family.
The full program will be announced in autumn 2026 on the official website of the city of Arras.
Highlights Christmas in Arras 2026
To Look Forward to in 2026
- 37th edition of the largest Christmas market in Northern France
- Illuminated Grand'Place and Place des Héros
- Ferris wheel, ice rink, carousels, and entertainment
- Detailed program to be announced in autumn 2026
Prices Christmas in Arras 2026
Practical information — Christmas in Arras
Practical Information
Dates and Hours
The Arras Christmas Market is generally held from late November to late December. Usual hours: Monday 12 PM-8:30 PM, Tuesday to Thursday 12 PM-8:30 PM, Friday 12 PM-10 PM, Saturday 10 AM-10 PM, Sunday 10 AM-8:30 PM. December 24th: 12 PM-5 PM. Closed on December 25th.
Access by Transport
By train: Arras station is located in the city center, a few minutes' walk from the market. Approximately 1 hour from Paris-Nord and 30 minutes from Lille-Flandres.
By car: Arras is accessible via the A1 motorway (Arras exit) and the A26. Five free park-and-ride facilities are available around the city center, offering a total of 2,560 free parking spaces.
Free shuttles: Free shuttles connect the Artois Expo, Abel-Bergaigne, and Citadelle parking lots to the city center throughout the market's duration.
Accessibility
The market is designed to be accessible to people with reduced mobility, with sufficiently wide aisles and adapted facilities. Reserved parking spaces are available nearby.
Food and Drink
Numerous chalets offer Christmas specialties: mulled wine, waffles, crepes, raclette, tartiflette, hot chocolate, gingerbread, and other delicacies. Restaurants in the city center are also open and offer festive menus.
Practical Tips
- Prefer public transport or park-and-ride facilities to avoid parking difficulties in the city center.
- Weekends are the busiest periods; opt for weekdays for a more tranquil experience.
- Bring warm clothing, as the market is held outdoors.
- The Ferris wheel and ice rink are ticketed; inquire about prices at the market's information desk.
Festival-goer photos
No photo yet. Share yours!
Share your photos
5 photos max, 5 MB per photo (JPG, PNG, WebP)
Festival-goer reviews
No rating yet — be the first!
No review yet. Be the first!
Were you there?
Share your experience with the community
Travel to this festival
Book your train or bus to reach Christmas in Arras at the best price.
Sponsored link
Where does it take place — Christmas in Arras
Grand'Place et Place des Héros
Grand'Place, 62000 Arras