Bessoncourt Christmas Market

A Christmas Market in a Historic Fort

The Bessoncourt Christmas Market benefits from a unique architectural setting in the entire Territoire de Belfort: the Fort de Bessoncourt, a 19th-century military building that is part of the network of fortifications built around the stronghold of Belfort after the Franco-Prussian War of 1870-1871. The fort's association, which has been working for many years to promote and preserve this heritage, organizes this market every late November, which has become an unmissable Advent event in the Territoire de Belfort.

Over 35 Artisans and Producers

Each year, the market brings together over 35 exhibitors carefully selected for the quality and originality of their productions. They are spread across the large spaces of the outdoor courtyard and the indoor rooms of the fort, offering visitors a stroll between an outdoor atmosphere and a cozy ambiance. You can find:

• Handmade creations: decorative objects, candles, jewelry, leather goods, wooden toys, and ceramics
• Natural cosmetics: soaps, creams, essential oils, and skincare products made by local artisans
• Natural stones: minerals, crystals, and semi-precious stone jewelry
• Local produce: honeys, jams, biscuits, Christmas cakes, coffees, and fine foods
• Textiles and fashion: clothing, scarves, and accessories made in France

Christmas Activities and Festivities

The market is accompanied by a program of festive activities that delight young and old alike:

• Saint Nicolas welcomes children for souvenir photos, from 2 PM to 4 PM
• Donkey rides for children in the fort's grounds
• Festive catering: mulled wine, craft beer, soup, fish and chips, sandwiches, quiches, crepes, hot chestnuts, Christmas cakes, and jams

A Remarkable Heritage Site

Beyond the market, visiting the Fort de Bessoncourt is a fascinating discovery in itself. This caponier fort, built between 1876 and 1879, is part of the first ring of forts erected around Belfort after the Treaty of Frankfurt. Its moats, galleries, and barrack buildings bear witness to the military engineering of the late 19th century.