Metz Saint Nicholas Festivities
The grand Saint Nicholas parade and its magical festivities in the heart of Metz
About Saint Nicholas of Metz
The Metz Saint Nicholas Festivities are one of the highlights of Metz's cultural life. Every first weekend of December, the city celebrates its patron saint with a program full of family-friendly activities. The Grand Parade, composed of illuminated floats, street performers, and musicians, crosses the city center for nearly two kilometers. Saint Nicholas appears on the balcony of the Governor's Palace before leading the procession. Shows, choirs, and giant lanterns complete this magical weekend.
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Saint Nicholas in Metz: A Tradition of Magic
Every year, on the first weekend of December, Metz transforms to celebrate Saint Nicholas, the patron saint of Lorraine. For two days, the city center buzzes with activities, shows, and the traditional Grand Parade, offering families a moment of conviviality and wonder.
The Grand Parade: A Spectacular Procession
On Sunday afternoon, Saint Nicholas appears on the balcony of the Governor's Palace where he sings his legendary song before leading the procession. The parade stretches for 1.8 kilometers through the streets of the historic center, gathering nearly 300 participants, 15 artistic groups, and 6 decorated floats. Thousands of candies are distributed to children along the route, while musicians, stilt walkers, and street performers enchant the spectators gathered along the way.
Activities for the Whole Family
The Esplanade hosts a festive and family-friendly program throughout the weekend:
- Giant animated lanterns illuminating the Esplanade from the afternoon
- Passage of the mechanized Graoully, Metz's legendary creature, on Saturday
- Performances by performing arts companies, such as "L'Envol des Muses" by Compagnie Cielo
- Choirs and open-air concerts
- Creative workshops in the city's media libraries
An Event Rooted in Lorraine Tradition
Saint Nicholas is a festival deeply rooted in the identity of Lorraine. For centuries, the cities and villages of the region have celebrated this patron saint of children on December 6th. In Metz, the festivities have evolved over the years, incorporating contemporary shows while preserving the traditional spirit of the celebration. The event is part of the broader end-of-year festivities, which also include the Christmas Market and the Lantern Path.
A Free and Popular Event
All Saint Nicholas festivities are free and open to all, making this event a popular and unifying gathering for the people of Metz and visitors from all over Lorraine and the Grand Est region. The Saint Nicholas Run, a charity race for wounded soldiers, adds a charitable dimension to this family celebration.
Saint Nicholas of Metz — edition 2026
2026 edition of the Metz Saint Nicholas Festivities, scheduled for December 5th and 6th, 2026, in the city center. Grand Parade, family activities on the Esplanade, and free shows.
Saint Nicholas 2026 in Metz
The Saint Nicholas Festivities return on December 5th and 6th, 2026, to the city center of Metz for another weekend of magic. The Grand Parade will cross the streets of the historic center on Sunday afternoon, with illuminated floats, street performers, and candy giveaways. Activities on the Esplanade and shows will complete the program. The theme and detailed program will be announced in the fall of 2026.
Programme Saint Nicholas of Metz 2026
2026 Program
- Weekend of December 5th and 6th, 2026
- Grand Parade on Sunday afternoon
- Family activities on the Esplanade
- Free shows and choirs
Highlights Saint Nicholas of Metz 2026
- Weekend of December 5th and 6th, 2026
- Grand Parade on Sunday afternoon
- Family activities on the Esplanade
- Free shows and choirs
Prices Saint Nicholas of Metz 2026
Practical information — Saint Nicholas of Metz
Access to Festivities
By Car
Metz is accessible via the A31 motorway from Paris (3h30), Nancy (50 min), and Luxembourg (1h). Underground parking in the city center: Parking République, Parking Cathédrale, Parking Saint-Jacques. Due to crowds during the parade, it is recommended to park early or use public transport.
By Train
Metz-Ville station is served by TGV from Paris-Est (1h25), TER from Nancy (35 min), Strasbourg (1h20), and Luxembourg (50 min). The city center is a 15-minute walk from the station up Rue Serpenoise.
By Bus and Mettis
Le Met' network: bus and Mettis (BHNS) lines serving the city center. Stops "République" and "Gare". Mettis runs until 10:30 PM on weekdays and Saturdays. Information on lemet.fr.
Program and Schedule
The festivities take place on the first weekend of December (Saturday and Sunday). Activities on the Esplanade are open from 2 PM to 6 PM. Saint Nicholas's appearance on the Governor's Palace balcony takes place on Sunday at 4:15 PM, followed by the start of the parade at 4:30 PM.
Parade Route
The procession starts from the Governor's Palace (Avenue Ney) and crosses the city center for 1.8 km towards the Lantern Path, with an arrival scheduled around 5:30 PM. It is advisable to position yourself at least 45 minutes before the start to get a good spot.
Prices
Completely free access to all activities, shows, and the Saint Nicholas parade.
Accessibility
The parade route is accessible to people with reduced mobility. Reserved areas are set up for wheelchairs. Activities on the Esplanade are also accessible.
Practical Advice
- Crowds: the parade attracts tens of thousands of spectators. Position yourself along the route well before the start
- Weather: festivities take place outdoors in December, pack warm and waterproof clothing
- Families: specific activities are offered for children in the media libraries and on the Esplanade
- Food: Christmas Market chalets and city center restaurants are open during the festivities
Accommodation
Metz has a wide range of hotels in the city center and surrounding areas. During the Saint Nicholas and Christmas Market period, it is advisable to book your accommodation in advance. The Inspire Metz tourist office offers a booking service.
Contact
City of Metz: metz.fr
Inspire Metz Tourist Office: tourisme-metz.com
Tourist Office Phone: 03 87 39 00 00
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Travel to this festival
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Where does it take place — Saint Nicholas of Metz
Centre-ville de Metz - Esplanade et palais du Gouverneur
Esplanade / Centre-ville, 57000 Metz