How to Have the Perfect Day at Reims Christmas Market
Last Updated on July 26, 2024 by April Nicole
Looking for what to do at the Reims Christmas market 2024?
As the festive season approaches, the charming city of Reims transforms into a winter wonderland, hosting one of the most magical Christmas markets in France.
My visit to the Reims Christmas Market was an experience that forever etched in my memory, instantly elevating it to the top of my list of favorite French Christmas markets.
Located in the heart of the Champagne region, this market exudes a unique blend of traditional charm and festive cheer.
I will take you through the sparkling streets of Reims, where the scent of mulled wine and the sound of Christmas carols fill the air. You can expect to discover the market’s special features, from its exquisite local cuisine to its artisanal crafts, and the special events that make Reims an unmissable Christmas destination.
If you are in a hurry, here’s a summary of the Reims Christmas Market:
The History of Reims Christmas Market
Located in the heart of the enchanting city of Reims, the Christmas Market boasts a rich heritage dating back to the medieval era. The market, a perennial extravaganza, originated in the 13th century when local artisans congregated to showcase their artisanal marvels.
Over the centuries, this festive bazaar evolved, intertwining traditional crafts with contemporary flair. The resplendent Gothic architecture of Reims Cathedral forms a majestic backdrop to this yuletide spectacle.
Mulled wine and gastronomic delights have been staples since the market’s inception, tantalizing the palates of generations. In the 19th century, the market witnessed a renaissance, aligning with the resurgent interest in Christmas festivities across Europe.
Today, Reims Christmas Market stands as a testament to the city’s enduring spirit, blending historical charm with a modern festive fervor.
Reims Christmas Market Dates & Location
📅 Reims Christmas Market dates: 24th November to 24th December 2024
📍Location: Promenades Jean-Louis Schneiter
🕒Opening times: Mondays from 2 to 8 p.m. Tuesday to Thursday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Fridays from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sundays from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Closing at 5:00 pm on Sunday, December 24th.
Admission: Access to the Christmas market is free
Accessibility: It is accessible to people with reduced mobility
Pet-friendly: Yes, dogs are welcomed on a leash
Other Practical Information
🚗Parking in Reims
- P+R des Belges car park: 15-minute by tram to the Christmas market
- P+R Robert Debré car park: 30-minute by tram to the Christmas market
- CPA République car park: 6-minute walk to the Christmas market
- Reims Clairmarais station car park – Effia: 9-minute walk to the Christmas market
- CPA Buirette car park: 12-minute walk to the Christmas market
- CPA Cathédrale car park: 15-minute walk to the Christmas market
- CPA Hôtel de ville car park: 8-minute walk to the Christmas market
- CPA Erlon car park: 4-minute walk to the Christmas market
- Free parking: Stade Delaune and Marchandeau, then Christmas shuttle bus available (see below)
🚍Public Transport at the Gates of the Christmas Market
- TRAM: Gare centre and Schneiter stops
- BUS: Gare centre stop, lines 2, 6, 7, 11 and Citybus (except on sundays)
- CHRISTMAS SHUTTLE BUS with Citura between the market and the fair: stops at Gare centre, Stade Delaune and Bocquaine from 2:30 p.m. (from 24/11 to 24/12: Wednesdays and Sundays until 9:00 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays until 10:30 p.m.; from 25/12 to 7/01: Mondays and Thursdays until 10 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays until midnight and Sundays until 11 p.m.) Free of charge
🚲Zébullo Stops
What You’ll Find at the Reims Christmas Market
In addition to the Christmas market, Reims is home to several other holidays celebrations, including parades, concerts, exhibitions, and animations for kids. There’s also a funfair, a ferris wheel, and an ice rink.
The “Rêve de Couleurs” Light Show
You won’t want to miss the amazing light and sound spectacle, Rêve de Couleurs (Dream of Colors). With the help of coordinated music, it turns the Gothic Notre Dame de Reims Cathedral into an amazing projection display.
The cathedral’s huge rose window and exquisite stained glass are highlighted by the choreographed lighting effects that dance over its surfaces. It has previously presented the narrative of a coronation, which is rather appropriate considering the history of the city.
📍Location: Notre Dame Cathedral and Saint-Remi Basilica
📅 Dates: From Thursday, November 23 to Saturday, January 6
🕒Times: Thursdays at 8:00 p.m. at the Basilica, Fridays and Saturdays at 8:00 p.m. at the Cathedral, Sunday, December 31st at 8:00 p.m. at the Cathedral
Duration: 15 minutes
The Travels of Santa Claus, Children’s Village
One of the most popular things to do at the Reims Christmas Market is to visit Santa Claus! Santa can be found in his workshop, where he will be happy to take photos with you and your family. He may even have a few presents for you!
Be sure to stop by Santa’s workshop when you’re at the Reims Christmas Market – it’s a Christmas tradition that you won’t want to miss!
📅 Dates: Friday, November 24 to Sunday, December 24
📍Location: Hautes Promenades Jean Louis Schneiter
🎅Santa Claus in his chalet: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 3:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m., Wednesday, Saturday, Sunday: 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Visit the Nativity in Reims Cathedral
The Notre Dame de Reims Cathedral is a place you should definitely visit if you enjoy Gothic architecture because it has so much history.
As you may guess, the crib scene in the Nativity scene is just as magnificent as the church itself, and it is added at Christmas.
To really immerse yourself in the cathedral’s over two millennia of history, I heartily suggest taking a guided tour.
📍Cathedral of Notre-Dame of Reims
The Children’s Kingdom
Typically, the Palais du Tau’s courtyard hosts Royaume des enfants, or Children’s Kingdom in English. The structure has, however, been mostly closed for repairs for the past two years. For smaller children, there are plenty of exciting activities to keep them occupied, such riding the Christmas train, seeing Santa in his igloo, and more.
📍Location: Courtyard of Palais du Tau
The Big Wheel
Settle inside one of the 36 heated, and soundproof cabins atop the Ferris wheel. By day, you can take in a stunning view of the city and surrounding vineyards from a height of 55 meters. You will be mesmerized by the city lights and illuminations at night.
📅 Dates: From Saturday, November 18 to Sunday, January 7, 2024. Daily 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Price: for children: €6, for adults: €8
📍Location: Place du Forum
The Christmas Tree
The classic Christmas tree appears at the square’s entrance, not far from the Ferris wheel. An must!
CHRISTMAS and Kings Fair
From December 9 until January 7, the Foire de Noël et des Rois brings together over 80 rides for both young and old, including thrill rides, merry-go-rounds, pop balloon shops, and kiddie rides.
📅 Dates: From Saturday, December 9 to Sunday, January 7
📍Location: Chaussée Bocquaine
🚍 Get there: Christmas Shuttle Bus (Citura) in Conjunction With the Christmas Market – Free of Charge. Three Stops: Central Station, Stade Delaune and Chaussée Bocquaine.
👉READ NEXT:
Christmas Market Foods in Reims
Champagne: In the center of the Champagne region is the city of Reims. Naturally, this well-known sparkling wine will be served at a lot of the Christmas market stalls. Wandering around and sampling a glass is a unique experience that immerses you in the rich wine culture of the area.
Truffled sausages: These sausages, which incorporate the fragrant flavor of truffles, are a gourmet delight. They’re frequently served sliced so you can enjoy the earthy flavors with every mouthful.
Biscuit rose de Reims: These crisp-textured pink biscuits are a true Reims specialty. They offer a delightful crunch and a burst of fizz when dipped in Champagne or red wine, as has been the tradition.
Local cheeses: Cheeses from the Champagne region are diverse. At the market, you can find tart blue cheeses and creamy bries that go well with a baguette.
Pain d’épice: Reims gingerbread (Pain d’Épices), a staple of European Christmas markets, frequently incorporates regional flavors. Its pleasant smell permeates everything it touches, including houses and sweets.
Mulled wine: This hot beverage, spiced and sweetened, is called “vin chaud” in French. It is a mainstay at many European Christmas markets and is especially comforting in the winter months.
Getting to the Reims Christmas Markets 2024
🚅By train:
Reims has good train connections to France’s and Europe’s largest cities. You can take a high-speed TGV train from Gare de l’Est if you’re traveling from Paris. The trip takes between forty-five to an hour.
👉 Reserve your train ticket to Reims and discover the ease of rail travel in France!
✈By airplane:
One of Europe’s main airports, Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG) in Paris, is the closest airport. You can go to Reims by train, bus, or rental car from CDG.
🚘By car:
Reims can be easily reached from Paris in 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic, via the A4 motorway. With a rental car, you can take your time discovering the surrounding sites and the picturesque countryside.
👉 Rent a car and enjoy the freedom of the open road on your way to Reims!
Explore Reims: Where to Stay at Every Budget
- Budget-Friendly: Hotel Azur Situated in the vibrant center of Reims, Hotel Azur combines convenience with affordability. Ideal for the savvy traveler. 👉 Secure your affordable adventure now!
- Mid-Range Comfort: Hotel de la Paix Experience the charm of Reims at Hotel de la Paix, balancing cost and comfort exquisitely. Ideal for families and couples. 👉 Reserve your memorable getaway!
- Luxury Experience: Château Les Crayères Indulge in luxury at Château Les Crayères, a historic castle turned 5-star hotel. An unforgettable, opulent retreat awaits. 👉 Treat yourself to luxury – book now!
Reims Christmas Market 2024 Map
Use this Reims Christmas Market map to begin planning your trip to this incredible destination!
Final Thoughts on Reims Christmas Market
And just like that, the curtain descends on the Reims Christmas Market—closing another year of festive vibes, twinkling lights, and merriment.
The stalls, once bustling with holiday cheer, now take a well-deserved breather until the next seasonal rendezvous. As we bid adieu to the warmth of mulled wine and the enchanting atmosphere, let the memories crafted within the Reims France Christmas Market linger like the aftertaste of a delicious treat.
Cheers to the memories made, and to those yet to come!
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