Christmas Markets

One of the things we love about living in France is that Christmas is a time of tradition and family rather than mass commercialisation.

Part of the tradition is the Christmas Markets that are held around Europe.  We are lucky in that we have 2 of the best Christmas markets in lovely cities close by – Amiens and Arras.  We have availability at No.fifty6 from late November so why not think about a trip to this wonderful area and treat yourself to some traditional style Christmas shopping and stock up on yummy festive treats.  

 Arras Christmas Market runs from 29^th November to 29^th December 2013.

The town holds a spectacular Christmas market on the splendid Grand Place. Around 60 exhibitors offer a wide selection of arts and crafts, as well as local delicacies like chocolate rats, Atrébate beer and Coeurs d'Arras - heart-shaped biscuits which come in two flavours, ginger and cheese.

Entertainment includes cooking lessons with chefs, craft demonstrations, a merry-go-round, heated shelters, and of course meeting Father Christmas!

Amiens runs from 22nd November  to 28^th December 2013.

In the heart of the city, the largest Christmas market in Northern France helps with preparations for end-of-year festivities.

Over 125 stalls: ideas for presents, food and drink items, world handicrafts, etc. Children's events are also held at "Santa's Grotto".

Opening times :

Monday : 2 pm - 7.30 pm

Tuesday - Sunday : 10.30 am - 7.30 pm

Also in Amiens, from 1st December the Cathedral is lit up with amazing colours at night from 7.00pm.  We missed it last year but apparently it’s superb:

When night falls, the colours of Notre-Dame breath life back into the Saints, apostles and other figures sculpted in stone since the 13th century. The fabulous cathedral, a UNESCO world heritage site, invites you to take a unique look at the sculptures on its West side. 

 Click on the link to discover more about Amiens Cathedral.

http://www.amiens-cathedrale.fr/download/Press-pack-amiens-cathedral.pdf