Given the huge number of requests we receive to post Christmas events on our website, we have decided, again, to compile a list of Christmas markets for you, and add a few of our own recommendations as well. This initial list includes just a few of the fairs coming up over the next couple of weeks - we will have many more to add over the coming days. If you have a favorite fair that you would like us to add, please send us an email with the details, including any flyers for us to post on our Events Calendar.
Christmas markets are a great place to go to get a flavor of the local customs and traditions of this region - and of course to buy unique, hand-crafted products to send as presents to your folks back home. Most of the markets provide food stalls offering local delicacies, including of course a welcome glass of mulled wine (otherwise known as vin chaud or glühwein). For the children, there are often many activities organized - and if they're lucky, Santa Claus may make a surprise visit!
Click on the name of the event to see more information on each listing. Since some of the information has been sourced from other websites, we recommend that you verify the time and location of any events that interest you before you set out – just in case the dates have changed.
It's impossible to cover all the markets in the area. These links will help you discover a few more in France:
- Christmas Markets in Rhône-Alpes, 2014
- Christmas Markets in Haute-Savoie, 2014
- Christmas Markets in Ain, 2014
This website also includes lots of links to Christmas markets in this part of Switzerland, including Geneva and Vaud:
11 November 2014, 18h30 to 21h15
Charity Craft Evening (VD)
All Saints Church Hall
Ave de la Prairie 40
Vevey
Lots of stands offering Christmas goodies such as crackers, puddings and mince pies, as well as Christmas cards, 2015 calendars, and Christmas decorations. Endless opportunities to buy gifts such as books, jewelry, and beauty products.
15 November 2014, 10h to 15h
Christmas Bazaar (VD)
St John's Church
Territet
Montreux
Jams, marmalades chutneys, English books, Christmas cakes & mince pies,brocante & Christmas gifts.
15 November 2014, 9h30 to 16h
Holy Trinity Grand Christmas Fair (GE)
14 bis Rue du Mont Blanc
Geneva
www.holytrinitygeneva.org/
Gifts, cards, mincemeat, crackers, jams, cakes, books, children's corner, toys, handicrafts, refreshments.
16 November 2014, 10h to 18h
Marché du Noël (France)
L'Esplanade du Lac
Divonne-les-Bains
Regional craft stalls, food available.
21 November to 24 December 2014
19th edition of Montreux Noël (VD)
1820 Montreux
021 965 24 12
www.montreuxnoel.ch
One month of festivities at this very picturesque Christmas market. All along the lakefront you will find nearly 160 little chalets selling gifts and trinkets, including hot-spots for foods in several locations. Under the large structure in the center you will find foods galore with picnic tables. Further along there is a tent hosting an array of delicacies including fondue, sausages, churros, and more. Be sure to try Lisa’s favorite waffle, Manneke Kris or the giant tartiflette. Dress warmly as the whole event is outdoors and at the lakefront. The Ferris Wheel is sure to thrill young and old!
Monday to Thursday: 11h to 20h + 2h (food and drink)
Friday 11h to 22h + 1h (food and drink)
Saturday 10h to 22h + 1h (food and drink)
Sunday 10h to 20h + 2 hr (food and drink)
21 November to 24 December, 201$
Various Christmas Markets, Lausanne (VD)
Late night shopping on Wednesday 17, Friday 19, and Tuesday 23 December.
http://noel-lausanne.ch/
Marché de St-Francois
A warm and welcoming traditional market with various Lausanne traders proposing all kinds of different products, decorative items, food delicacies etc – there is something for everyone here. Come and taste raclette and vin chaud amongst other delights!
Marché de Pépinet
A traditional craft market, with the opportunity to take a break and enjoy some food as well.
Marché du Flon
Near the ice rink, you will find whatever you fancy to eat and drink with friends at this animated market including a good raclette!
22 November 2014
Collège du Léman Christmas Market (GE), 10h to 15h
Route de Sauverny 74
CH-1290 Versoix
www.cdl.ch
There will be a variety of vendors from jewellery, childrens clothes, xmas decorations, candles, books, crafts and food stalls serving hot indian cusine and yummy cakes and deserts. Some parking available otherwise there is an overflow at the Versoix Sports Centre, a 5min walk from the school.
23 - 24 November, 2014, 10h to 18h
Château des Bois Pre-Christmas Sale (GE)
10 chemin de la Vombe d'Ornex
1242 Satigny
www.chateaudesbois.ch
Numerous stands covering everything from local food delicacies to regional crafts. Brunch on Sunday.
25 November to 24 December 2014
Lyon Christmas Market, 10h30 to 20h (France)
Place Carnot, Lyon 2e
http://www.lyon.fr/actualite/culture-loisirs/marche-de-noel.html
Lots of stalls selling locally produced crafts and food, including Christmas decorations, "produits du terroir", original ideas for presents, and children's toys. On Saturdays, and during the Lyon light festival, the market will remain open until 22h.
27 - 30 November, 2014
Advent Market (VD)
Guichard Fleurs
"Les Pralies"
Route d'Arnex 7
CH-1277 Borex
www.guichardfleurs.ch
Tradition Advent Market held over the last weekend in November.
27 November: 17h to 20h (Free mulled wine)
28 November: 8h to 12h, 13h30 to 18h30
29 November: 8h to 17h
30 November: 16h to 19h (Aperitif and gospel choir at 17h30)
28 November 2012 to 4 January 2014
Marché de Noël des Alpes, Annecy (France)
http://www.annecy.fr/620-noel-des-alpes-2014.htm
Opposite the Hotel de Ville (Espace Hôtel de Ville) and on the Place François de Menthon (Espace Village des Alpes).
Christmas markets offering regional crafts and local “produits de terroir”. Ice rink at the Villages des Alpes. Numerous activities throughout the month of December and early January, including:
- Christmas parade on 20 December
- Free Christmas concerts at the Imperial Palace
- Light show projected on the town hall every day until 4 January from 17h until midnight, with sound from 20h to 22h and without sound from 22h to midnight.
A Petit Train will lead you from one activity to another.
29 November 2014, 10h to 16h
Christmas Market (VD)
Christ Church Lausanne
Av. de l'Eglise Anglaise 1
1006 Lausanne
www.christchurch-lausanne.chTraditional Christmas puddings and cakes for sale, together with crackers and all the regular seasonal fare that makes the Anglo-Saxon Christmas so different. There will be both hot and cold food on offer too.
29 - 30 November 2014
Bellevue Christmas Market (GE)
www.artisans-bellevue.ch/
Saturday, 29 November: 10h to 18h
Sunday, 30 November: 10h to 17h
Lots of stands selling Christmas gift items, decorations, jewelry, painting on porcelain and silk, decorated candles and beeswax, cards and calendars, chocolates and cookies, knitted and crocheted objects, stained glass items, ceramic, handmade soaps, advent wreaths. A snack bar selling drinks, sweet and savory foods will also be on hand. Santa should make an appearance towards the end of the day on Saturday and Sunday!
29 - 30 November 2014
Marché de Noël (GE)
Chêne-Bougeries
www.chene-bougeries.ch
Christmas Market featuring more than 70 craft stalls, as well as lots of refreshments (including roasted chestnuts, biscuits and mulled wine!), animations and music too!
30 November 2014, 10h to 16h
Villars Christmas Fayre (VD)
Le Broadway
Panorama Building
Villars-sur-Ollon
Wide range of goods to purchase including Christmas cards, Advent and 2015 calendars, wrapping paper, jewelry, Christmas wreaths, health and beauty products, books, and "artisanal" decorations. Refreshments available.
3 - 7 December 2014
Marché de Noël au Château de Coppet (VD)
Château de Coppet
Rue des Murs 2
1296 Coppet
022 776 73 55
www.noelcoppet.ch
Wednesday 3 December 14h-20h:
Entertainment for the kids, stands with gifts and more, skating rink.
Thursday 4 December 14h-20h:
Entertainment for the kids, stands with gifts and more, skating rink.
Friday 5 December 14h-20h
: Entertainment for the kids, stands with gifts and more, skating rink.
Saturday 6 December 11h-21h:
Entertainment for the kids, stands with gifts and more, skating rink.
Sunday 8 December 11h-17h
: Entertainment for the kids, stands with gifts and more, skating rink. Saint Nicolas and the Père fouettard will visit from 16h-17h30 in the park of the Château.
5 - 6 December and 12 - 13 December 2014, 14h to 19h
Marche de Noël de Poche (VD) (VD)
Galerie de Poche
7 chemin de Bénuyer
1295 Tannay
Lots of surprises to discover at this popular art gallery in Tannay: paintings, sculptures, books, CDs, orgonites, jewelry, and hats. For the first time this year there will be small items of furniture and "sapinous" from Nicole Quesné. Refreshments available.
5 - 7 December 2014
Christmas Market at La Noyère (VD)
Mont-sur-Rolle
www.marchedelanoyere.ch
Friday 5 December 14h - 21h (Irish folk concert from 18h)
Saturday 6 December 11h to 17h
Sunday 7 December 11h to 17h
La Noyère’s unique market, held in the heart of the vineyards of la Côte, will return in December to fill you with Christmas cheer. Come and browse through the stalls of fifteen or so artists whose original artworks and crafts, including flower arrangements, stationery and jewelry, will bring alive the spirit of Christmas.
You are invited to explore the maze of cellars of this elegant 18th century mansion as you go from stall to stall. Stroll through the gardens while sipping a glass of mulled wine, and wander through the workshops and storerooms of this exceptional house on the shores of Lake Geneva.
5 - 8 December 2014
Fête des Lumières, Lyon (France)
www.fetedeslumieres.lyon.fr/fr
Come and witness this festive annual event, where more than 70 light installations can be explored around the streets, squares and parks of the city of Lyon and where the houses place candles all round the outside of their houses. Visit the website to view the full program of events and suggested routes to explore. The Christmas market at la Place Carnot will stay open until 22h during the light festival.
6 - 7 December 2014, 14h to 17h
Bonneville Troc de Noël (France)
Place de l"Hôtel de Ville
Bored of your old Christmas decorations? Well bring them along to this special Christmas troc and exchange them for something more appealing! This event now runs over 2 days.
7 December 2014
Marché de Noël, Nyon (VD)
022 361 28 34
www.quartierderive.ch
Christmas market in the Quartier de Rive. More than 40 stalls selling crafts, food and drink, as well as numerous local products for sale. Christmas entertainment, including Father Christmas himself! Local shops and restaurants will be open during this outdoor market. Make sure to dress warmly and bring change or cash.
7 December 2014, 10h-17h
Aire-la-Ville Christmas Market (GE)
Salle Polyvalente
Not only will you find quality presents but there is a snack bar and bake sale worth going for! Items include: Painted porcelain; Italian delicacies: Carved wooden items; Fabric items; Decorations; Jewelry; and other beautiful craft items... Lisa will be there with her Vintage Plate Jewelry.
8 December 2014, 9h to 12h
IWC Gift Fair (VD)
IWC Club House
Avenue Eglantine 6
Lausannne
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www.iwc-lausanne.org
Great opportunity to find Christmas gifts: hand made arts and crafts, Christmas cards, calendars, quilts, cushions, jewellery, imported gift items, handbags, hats, baked goods, preserves or sweet treats. Remember to bring cash. There’s no provision for credit cards.
8 December 2014, 10h-18h
Bernex Marché de Noël (France)
Maison Bernolande
www.bernex.fr
More than 50 stalls as well as food and mulled wine on offer. Father Christmas will arrive at 15h. The ATCA model train club will make a special appearance again this year!
10 - 14 December 2014
Morges Covered Christmas Market (VD)
Morges, Halles CFF (VD)
www.morges-tourisme.ch
Weekdays : 16h to 22h
Saturday : 10h to 20h
Sunday : 10h to 19h
One of the biggest covered Christmas markets of French-speaking Switzerland, held in the great wooden hall at the railway station of Morges. More than 160 artisans (90% of which are from French-speaking Switzerland) present lots of different creations – blown glass, pottery, flower decorations, textile products, wooden objects, ceramics and of course delicacies such as jam or foie gras…
12 - 14 December 2014
Marché de Noël de Carouge (GE)
Rue St. Joseph; Place du Marché; Place du Temple; Rue Ancienne; Rue du Marché
http://www.interetsdecarouge.ch/noel_carouge.html
12 December: 11h to 20h
13 December: 9h to 20h
14 December: 9h to 18h
Outdoor event with numerous animations.
13 December 2014, 11h30-16h
Marché St. Nicolas (VD)
La Chataigneraie Campus - International School of Geneva (VD)
Chemin de la Ferme 2
1297 Founex
Come to the International School of Geneva, La Chåtaigneraie campus, Jura Building for a holiday gift market, delicious food and wonderful musical entertainment. Look out for Lisa again, who will be selling her Vintage Plate Jewelry.
13 December 2014, 9h30-14h
Marché de Noël, Duillier (VD)
Centre Communale de Duillier
022 362 46 95
www.duillier.ch
13 December 2014, 10h to 18h
Brin de Terre Marché de Noël (VD)
4, route de la Rippe
Crassier
079 519 61 00
www.brindeterre.ch
Small Christmas market held at the craft workshop of Brin de Terre. Local artisans will send a range of hand-made crafts inside the boutique and outside, if the weather permits. Come and enjoy a glass of vin chaud and find out more about Brin de Terre's program of activities for 2015.
13 - 14 December 2014
Marché de Noël, Saint-Genis-Pouilly (France)
Centre Culturel Jean Monnet
11 rue de Gex
01630 Saint-Genis-Pouilly, France
www.saintgenispouillytourisme.fr
Saturday 13 December 2014 from 11h to 19h.
Sunday 14 December 2014 from 10h to 18h.
Get into the Christmas spirit at this covered market, which includes lots of free activities for the kids, such as cooking, painting and craft workshops. Carol singing by the Crossroads Anglican choir. Food provided both days. Throughout the weekend there will be an exhibition on painting by Véronique BALCERZAK. There will also be Christmas candles for sale, and a free tombola. Free entry.
13 - 14 December 2014, 10h-17h
Marché de Noël Artisanal de Corsier (GE)
Salle Communale
Route de Corsier
Facebook
Annual Christmas market, featuring local artisans and a variety of food stalls. You can even buy your Christmas tree here!
13 - 14 December 2014, 9h-18h
Marché de Noël Artisanal, Sciez (France)
Place Alexandre Néplaz
74140 Sciez, France
http://www.ambiance-noel.fr/marches-de-noel/haute-savoie/le-marche-de-noel-de-sciez-2560_M
Ideal for an outing with the family or friends, the Marché de Noël at Sciez proposes all kinds of interesting gastronomic delights, as well as decorative items for the Christmas tree and table. A wonderful opportunity to find unusual Christmas gifts. Look out for Father Christmas!
13 - 14 December 2014
Marché de Noël, Mézières (VD)
Grande Salle
Saturday 10h to 20h
Sunday 10h to 17h
8th edition of this popular Christmas market, held in the Grande Salle at Mézières.
13 - 23 December 2014
Marché de Noël de la ville de Sion (Valais)
Place du Midi and L’Espace des Remparts
www.mdnsion.ch
Monday to Friday 14h-19h30
Saturday and Sunday 11h-19h30
Nocturnes: until 22h
The 11th edition of this special event will feature around 60 artisan stalls, and numerous places to eat. A packed festive program of activities for young and old includes concerts, artistic demonstrations, a carousel, ice rink, donkey rides, and bricolage workshop. Look our for Santa Claus arriving on his Coca Cola truck on Monday 22 December from 14h-19h.
14 December, 2014, 10h-18h
Marché de Noël, Lutry (VD)
Bourg de Lutry
www.sdlutry.ch/marche-noel
Traditional outdoor Christmas market featuring more than 100 local businesses and artists as well as numerous animations.
14 December 2014, 9h-18h
Marché de Noël, Douvaine (France)
In the Bulle
http://sou-ecole-douvaine.e-monsite.com
Numerous stalls, covering a wide range of crafts such as jewelry and pottery.
Sundays, 14 and 21 December 2014, 10h to 19h
Christmas Market at Hotel d'Angleterre (GE)
Quai du Mont-Blanc 17
1201 Geneva
www.dangleterre.com
Lots of gourmet products, as well as jewelry and other potential gifts. Tombola.
20 - 21 December 2014
Marché de Noël, Thonon-les-Bains (France)
Place de la Fontaine
74200 Thonon-les-Bains
www.thononlesbains.com
Saturday 20 December: 10h to 20h
Sunday 21 December: 10h to 18h
The association of the Tulliérands is organising the 3rd edition of their Marché de Noel this year.
If you would like to be featured on our Christmas market list, as well as on our Events Calendar, please use our form here.
