Besançon Christmas Market

The Besançon Christmas Market: Christmas magic in the heart of the Boucle

Each year, from late November to December 24th, the Besançon Christmas Market transforms the historic center of the capital of the Franche-Comté region into a magical setting. Created in 1993 on the initiative of the Union of Shopkeepers and its president Jean-François Diéterlé, this market has become over the years one of the most anticipated events of the Besançon winter.

The Christmas Village on Place Granvelle

Place Granvelle, in the heart of Besançon's historic Boucle, hosts the traditional Christmas Village with about fifty decorated and illuminated wooden chalets. Visitors will find:

• Local crafts — jewelry, ceramics, candles, wooden objects
• Christmas decorations — baubles, garlands, nativity scenes
• Gastronomic products — mulled wine, gingerbread, chocolates, Franche-Comté specialties
• Original gifts — creations by local artisans and artists

Activities for the whole family

The Besançon Christmas Market offers a rich program of family activities:

• Santa's House — open Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 2 PM to 7 PM
• Shows and concerts — by the Compagnie Caravailes, on Wednesdays and Sundays
• Craft activities and face painting for children
• Christmas carols and street entertainment
• Traditional carousel for the little ones

Illuminations and magical atmosphere

Christmas festivities in Besançon are not limited to the market. The City deploys a spectacular illumination program throughout the city center: Grande Rue, Place de la Révolution, Place du Huit-Septembre, and several neighborhoods are adorned with lights. The official inauguration of the illuminations marks the start of the festivities.

An accessible and friendly market

The Besançon Christmas Market is designed to be accessible to all. The aisles are wide and the facilities are adapted for people with reduced mobility. Admission is free and the market is open every day during Advent, with extended hours on Fridays and Saturdays.