Aix-en-Provence Christmas Markets and Provençal Traditions

The festive season has a very special flavour in Aix-en-Provence. Inherited from centuries-old traditions, the fêtes calendales — the Provençal Christmas festivities — enchant the city from late November until 2 February, the day of Candlemas (la Chandeleur).

The Cours Mirabeau Christmas Market

Not to be missed, the Christmas market sets up every year on the prestigious Cours Mirabeau. Among its treasures:

• Wooden chalets selling crafts and local produce
• Provençal specialities: navettes, calissons, nougats, mulled wine
• Handcrafted creations: santons, ceramics, textiles
• A fairy-tale atmosphere thanks to the illuminations

The Foire aux Santons

A true institution in Provence, the Foire aux Santons celebrates the clay figurines that fill Provençal nativity scenes. Here you will find santons signed by the region's finest craftspeople: a tradition handed down from generation to generation.

The Gros Souper and the 13 desserts

On Christmas Eve, Provençal families celebrate the Gros Souper, followed by the famous 13 desserts, symbolising Christ and the twelve apostles. A gourmet and spiritual tradition that is an integral part of the Provençal soul.

Other events not to miss

• Living nativity scenes in the surrounding villages
• Christmas concerts at Saint-Sauveur Cathedral
• La Pastorale, a traditional play performed in Provençal
• The winter Saint-Jean bonfire and the veillées calendales (Christmas-season evening gatherings)

Conclusion

Spending Christmas in Aix-en-Provence means immersing yourself in a living heritage of fervour, gastronomy and craftsmanship. An authentic experience that appeals as much to families as to travellers in search of unique emotions.