Christmas markets date back to the Middle Ages and began in the Germanic parts of Europe, but quickly spread throughout the continent. You will usually find a nativity scene among the many stalls selling food (roasted chestnuts), drink (hot mulled wine), and handmade toys and ornaments among other things. However, every market is different and manages to include some local flavor with the traditional.
The Provincial town of Avignon takes a more traditional approach to its annual Christmas market festivities. Throughout the month of December, you will find shop and food stalls set up around the Place de l’Horloge in the center of town. Folk dancers, dressed in traditional costumes, will perform, but Santa will also be around to greet the children. Walk down the “Chemin des crèches”, an alley of large, animated and lighted nativity scenes. Avignon truly uses its history to its advantage since all of this takes place right by the Palais des Papes, the seat of Catholicism for much of the 14th century! For more travel tips about Avignon, check out our dedicated section of the blog.
• This 1 bedroom rental in Roquebrune Cap Martin, French Riviera (PR-699) is not far from Menton or the beach! The charming apartment is brightly decorated to match the fantastic Mediterranean sunlight!
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A trip to a Christmas market is a wonderful tradition to add to your holiday vacation. The wonderful markets put on by the towns of Menton and Avignon are great reasons to visit these areas of the South of France, whether you’ve never been or even if you’re a frequent flyer. Let New York Habitat provide you with a luxurious vacation apartment and really make this holiday season a memorable one! And as your guide, New York Habitat has a whole blog of South of France travel tips for you.
What’s your favorite part of the holiday season? Share your thoughts with us in the comments section.
I believe that when people think of South France, many have glorious thoughts of warm weather and sunshine. This is actually the case, so long as you go there during the right season. In the winter, though there may not be snow, it can get pretty chilly. Enough to wear a jacket, anyways. The celebration of Christmas time is in abundance, and there is always something to do. I am easygoing an was entertained during my entire vacation, whether it be ice skating, going to a small coffee shop to warm up, or staying in and reading and watching the life of the city scatter by on the street below. I most definitely plan on returning!
My favorite part of the Holidays is th Christmas market in the French Riviera/Provence area. You can buy little figurine called “Santons” they are made of clay and nicely painted. They usually represent a caracter of the nativity scene.