The French Christmas celebration doesn't end on Christmas Day. The festive spirit is extended by two major milestones:
If you are planning a visit, these are the top-rated destinations for 2026. Most major markets open in mid-November 2026 and run through early January 2027. Key Highlight 300+ wooden chalets Traditionalists & Foodies Metz Sentier des Lanternes (Lantern Trail) Romantic walks & Families Paris (Tuileries) Giant Ferris wheel & carnival rides Festive atmosphere & Kids Colmar Fairytale "Snow-globe" setting Photography enthusiasts Nice Alpine-themed village by the sea Mild weather & Crafts 4. Beyond the 25th: Epiphany and La Chandeleur french christmas celebration part 2 new
Unlike the US, Christmas morning is the main gift-giving moment (that’s for Les Enfants after mass, but many families now do gifts on the 24th). Christmas Day is for: The French Christmas celebration doesn't end on Christmas
The Extended French Christmas: Feast of the Kings to the Day of Crêpes Key Highlight 300+ wooden chalets Traditionalists & Foodies
In Paris, luxury houses on Avenue Montaigne (notably Dior) have turned their building fronts into massive illuminated art installations, becoming a primary "non-market" tourist draw. 3. The 2026 French Christmas Market Guide