Christmas Market of Saint-Leu-la-Forêt

Saint-Leu-la-Forêt, a Sylvan Gem for Christmas

Saint-Leu-la-Forêt is a residential town in the Montmorency Valley whose name says it all about its identity: the forest here is not a distant backdrop but an immediate neighbor, a constant presence in the daily lives of its inhabitants. The Montmorency forest, covering over 3,500 hectares north and west of the town, is one of the largest forests in the Parisian suburbs. This proximity to nature gives Saint-Leu-la-Forêt a special atmosphere in December, when the bare beeches and oaks create sylvan landscapes of austere and majestic beauty to accompany the Christmas festivities.

The Craft Market and its Creators

The Christmas market of Saint-Leu-la-Forêt brings together artisan creators and local producers in a festive space decorated in Advent colors. The stalls offer a selection of original handmade creations: silver and natural stone jewelry, thrown and glazed ceramics, carved or turned wood objects, blown glass Christmas decorations, and artisanal cards and stationery. Lovers of delicacies will find jams and honeys from the forests of Val d'Oise, chocolate bars and gift boxes, spiced Christmas cookies, salted butter caramels, and local fine foods. The town's Creative Arts Hall can accommodate some of the covered stalls to ensure the comfort of exhibitors and visitors in case of bad weather.

The Ice Rink and Activities

The ice rink, set up each December as part of the town's festive program, is one of the most popular attractions for children and teenagers in Saint-Leu-la-Forêt. It welcomes skaters of all levels in a joyful musical atmosphere and delights families who take advantage of the school holidays to gather there. Creative workshops offer children the chance to make tree ornaments, Advent wreaths, and personalized greeting cards. Meeting Santa Claus is the highlight of the activities for the youngest, offering each child a moment of magic and connection.

Christmas in the Forest

The immediate proximity of the Montmorency forest gives the Saint-Leu-la-Forêt market a unique atmosphere. The scent of the winter undergrowth, the silence of the forest paths, and the soft light filtering through the bare branches create a natural setting that further enhances the magic of Christmas. Many visitors take advantage of their visit to the market for a hike in the forest before or after their shopping, taking the marked trails that lead into the beech and oak forests. Hiking maps and guides are available at the Cergy-Pontoise Tourist Office.

Saint-Leu, a Charming Town

Saint-Leu-la-Forêt is a town that has preserved its village character while benefiting from good train service. Its pedestrianized town center, lively streets, and weekly market give it the atmosphere of a bustling market town. The Gothic church of Saint-Leu-Saint-Gilles, whose organ is one of the town's heritage jewels, is worth a visit when passing through. The Montmorency Valley, of which Saint-Leu is one of the most wooded towns, offers serene landscapes in December that invite contemplation.

Practical Information

By train: Saint-Leu-la-Forêt SNCF station (line H from Paris-Nord). The station is a 10-minute walk from the town center.

By car: D928 from Enghien-les-Bains or D915 from Taverny. Free parking available in the town center.

Free admission to the market and activities. Fee applies for the ice rink.