Sens Christmas Market

A Christmas Market in the Capital of the Sénonais

Every year in December, the city of Sens — a thousand-year-old town in the Yonne department, in Bourgogne-Franche-Comté — transforms into a real Christmas village to host its Christmas Market, one of the highlights of the city's festive calendar. Located on the Place de la République and under the covered market, the event brings together artisans, local producers, and visitors for three days in a warm and bright atmosphere, dominated by the majestic silhouette of the Saint-Étienne Cathedral of Sens, the first Gothic cathedral in France, built from 1130.

This Christmas Market is organized by the City of Sens and is one of the flagship events of the end-of-year celebrations for the entire Sénonais community and visitors from the Yonne region. Admission is completely free, making this event a popular gathering open to everyone.

A Historic and Enchanting Setting

The setting for the Sens Christmas Market is exceptional. The Saint-Étienne Cathedral, whose construction began around 1130 under Archbishop Henri Sanglier, is considered the first Gothic cathedral in France, even predating the Basilica of Saint-Denis. Its apse, its flamboyant rose windows, and its two medieval towers overlook the Place de la République and provide an incomparable backdrop for the illuminated market chalets.

At nightfall, the fairy lights adorning the wooden chalets, the lights highlighting the arches of the covered market, and the carefully orchestrated lighting around the cathedral create a particularly magical atmosphere, typical of the finest Christmas markets. The Place de la République, the beating heart of the old town of Sens, offers an ideal space for strolling among the rows of chalets.

Craftsmanship, Creations, and Gift Ideas

The Sens Christmas Market brings together about fifty exhibitors, carefully selected for the quality and originality of their creations. Art artisans, independent creators, and regional producers gather to offer a wide selection of original gifts and Christmas decorations: handmade jewelry, wooden decorative objects, pottery, textile creations, artisanal toys, candles, soaps, illustrations, and many other surprises for all ages and budgets.

The chalets dedicated to arts and crafts stand alongside stalls for Christmas decorations (garlands, baubles, nativity scenes, santons) and pop-up shops offering unique creations — the perfect opportunity to find gifts off the beaten track and support local Burgundian craftsmanship.

Burgundian Gastronomy in the Spotlight

The covered market of Sens particularly highlights local producers from the Sénonais and Burgundy regions. About twenty producers showcase their expertise, allowing visitors to discover or rediscover authentic regional specialties: distinctive cheeses, artisanal foie gras, local honey, peasant biscuits, quality meats and charcuterie, and of course, Burgundy wines — Chablis, red and white Bourgogne — as well as sparkling crémants and artisanal fruit juices.

Wafting from the outdoor chalets, the scents of mulled wine, cinnamon, gingerbread, and hot chestnuts delightfully fill the Place de la République. Champagne and artisanal spirits complete this gourmet selection, making the Sens Christmas Market a true festival of winter flavors. Among the regular exhibitors are L'Amour est dans le lait, Biscuits Paysans, Les Cerfs de Bourgogne, and GAEC Desmoutiers-Breton.

Animations and Christmas Magic for Families

The Sens Christmas Market is also a great family celebration. Activities for young and old punctuate the three days, and the presence of Santa Claus on Saturday is always a highly anticipated moment for children. For recent editions, a Santa Claus House, set up in a yurt on Place Drapès, allows children to meet Saint Nicholas in an intimate and magical setting.

In addition to the market, the City of Sens organizes a grand Christmas parade in the days following, on the Place de la République, with lights, illuminated floats, magical characters, and festive music — extending the magic of the holidays well beyond the market weekend itself.

Sens, Heritage, and Burgundian Art de Vivre

Beyond the market, a visit to the historic center of Sens is a must. The Saint-Étienne Cathedral (12th-16th century) houses one of France's richest treasures, including the shroud of Saint Louis and numerous pieces of medieval goldsmithing. The Palais Synodal (13th century), restored by Viollet-le-Duc, and the old half-timbered houses lining the streets of the center complete this remarkable heritage. Sens is also less than 1.5 hours from Paris, making it an ideal destination for a winter getaway.