Franco-German Christmas Market of Anglet

The Franco-German Christmas Market of Anglet: a twinning tradition

Since 1996, Place du Général-Leclerc has transformed into a magical Christmas village every December. The Franco-German Christmas Market of Anglet was born from the twinning between the town of Anglet and Ansbach, a medieval town in Bavaria, a friendship that has lasted for over fifty years. It is the very first Christmas market to have been created in the Basque Country.

A market between Basque and Bavarian traditions

The originality of this market lies in the meeting of two festive cultures. On one hand, Bavarian specialties: Bretzels, Butterstollen, Lebkuchen, and German mulled wines. On the other, Basque and Southwest traditions: foie gras, sheep cheese, Basque cake, and chocolate. The wooden chalets lined up on the square host about forty exhibitors, local artisans, and producers who offer gift ideas and gourmet products.

Entertainment for the whole family

The market is not limited to Christmas stalls. Every day, entertainment punctuates the event:

• Christmas concerts and choirs on the main stage
• Creative workshops for children
• Street performances and parades
• Arrival of Santa Claus and distribution of treats
• Illuminations of the Cinq Cantons district

A unifying event

With nearly thirty editions to its credit, the Franco-German Christmas Market has become a must-attend event for the holiday season on the Basque Coast. It contributes to the commercial dynamism of the Cinq Cantons district and strengthens the bonds of friendship between the inhabitants of Anglet and Ansbach, whose delegations visit each other annually on this occasion.