Marmoutier Christmas Market

Christmas in Marmoutier: two complementary events

Marmoutier, a small town in the Pays de Saverne nestled in the sub-Vosgian hills, is famous for its 11th-century Romanesque abbey church, one of the most beautiful in Alsace with its three-towered facade of red and yellow sandstone. It is in this exceptional heritage setting that the commune celebrates Christmas, through two distinct but complementary events that take place over two consecutive weekends, generally between late November and early December.

The Grand Christmas Market (first weekend)

The Grand Christmas Market, organized by the Communes Sans Frontières de Marmoutier association, opens the festivities on the last weekend of November. It is held in the Schlossgarten multi-purpose hall and brings together about twenty exhibitors, artisans, and creators. You can find:

• Handmade and traditional Christmas decorations
• Original creations: jewelry, ceramics, textiles, candles
• Local products: foie gras, gingerbread, jams, bredele

The market is accompanied by family entertainment: children's craft workshops, the arrival of Saint Nicholas who rewards well-behaved children, pony rides, and light refreshments on site.

Marmoutier on the Christmas Path (following weekend)

The following weekend, the Office Municipal des Sports, Loisirs et de la Culture (OMSLC) presents "Marmoutier on the Christmas Path": a festive outdoor route in the abbey square and in the heart of the village. More immersive than a simple market, this event combines artisan stalls, participatory activities, and shows:

• Fire-breathers wandering and a fire and juggling show in the afternoon
• Arrival of Saint Nicholas, accompanied by his donkey, distributing sweets
• Glass blowing demonstration
• Christmas tales and cooking and craft workshops for children
• XXL wooden games for the whole family
• Brazier and marshmallows to warm up outdoors
• Santa's mailbox to drop off your letter and take a photo

Solidarity and commitment

Both weekends include a solidarity dimension, with sales benefiting local charities (Amis du Home Saint-Joseph, Christmas tree sales by Les Lutins du Tannenwald) and catering provided by village associations.