Arras Christmas Market - A Guide to Northern France's Best Holiday Market

Uncover the festive charm of Arras Christmas Market, where twinkling lights, historic streets, and holiday traditions come together to create an unforgettable seasonal experience in Northern France.

The holiday season is the perfect time to immerse ourselves in festive traditions, and what better way to celebrate than by visiting one of the most charming Christmas markets in Northern France? As a native of the Hauts-de-France region, I’ve always been captivated by the magic of our regional Christmas markets. Every year, Rafael and I make it a tradition to explore new places in winter, and in previous years, we visited the Christmas markets in Maastricht and Antwerp. However, Rafael had never experienced the holiday season in Arras, so I thought it would be the perfect opportunity to introduce him to this beautiful northern city, known for its stunning Christmas atmosphere. In this post, we've compiled all the information you need to make the most of your visit to the Arras Christmas market, offering you a truly enchanting holiday experience in the heart of the region!

GENERAL INFORMATION

Arras, in the Hauts-de-France region, is a city filled with history, culture, and beautiful architecture, making it a great spot for a Christmas market getaway. As the capital of the Pas-de-Calais department, Arras is home to impressive landmarks such as the UNESCO-listed Belfry and the Grand' Place, which are even more magical during the holiday season! The city’s underground tunnels, once essential during World War I, add an intriguing historical layer to its festive charm. With its blend of historical significance and modern life, Arras is a must-visit destination year-round, offering something for both history buffs and those looking to enjoy the festive season.

Every year, the Arras Christmas market attracts thousands of visitors, transforming the Grand' Place and surrounding streets into a magical winter wonderland. Competing with my hometown of Amiens for the largest Christmas market in Hauts-de-France, the market features over 140 wooden chalets offering seasonal treats, unique gifts, and beautiful decorations. Running from late November to late December, it’s beloved by both locals and tourists. With twinkling lights and the Belfry as a backdrop, the Arras Christmas market offers the perfect holiday atmosphere. For more information, visit the Arras Christmas market website. 

The Arras Christmas market runs from 29 November to 29 December, offering a festive atmosphere throughout the Advent season.

The market is open daily with varying hours:

• Mon. to Thur.: from 12 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
• Friday: from 12 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
• Saturday: from 10 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
• Sunday: from 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Entry to the Christmas market is free of charge, allowing you to wander through the beautiful wooden chalets, enjoy the festive treats, and soak in the magical atmosphere without any cost.

Christmas Markets HISTORY

The tradition of Christmas markets dates back to the Middle Ages, with the earliest known markets appearing in German-speaking regions of the Holy Roman Empire. Initially, these markets were created to help people gather essential supplies like meat, firewood, and bread for the long winter months. By the 14th century, craftsmen and vendors began selling festive treats, small gifts, and handmade goods, transforming these gatherings into what we now recognize as Christmas markets. One of the first true Christmas markets, the Striezelmarkt in Dresden, dates back to 1434 and is often regarded as the origin of the modern Christmas market tradition. 

Over time, Christmas markets have spread across Europe, with each region adding its unique charm. In France, these markets became popular in the 20th century, and while they don’t have the same long history as their German counterparts, they have quickly gained popularity, particularly in the north. The Arras Christmas market is one of the largest and most enchanting in the region, offering a festive atmosphere filled with twinkling lights, holiday treats, and unique gifts. Despite its more recent origins, the market has become a beloved tradition, attracting thousands of visitors to the stunning Grand' Place every year.

GETTING THERE

Arras, located in the Hauts-de-France region, is well-connected and easy to reach from other major towns, whether by train, car or bus:

• By train: Arras is conveniently served by the French national railway network (SNCF), making it easy to reach from Paris and other nearby cities. From Paris Gare du Nord, the train ride takes approximately 50 minutes to an hour, with tickets costing around 15 to 20 EUR for a one-way trip. If you’re coming from Lille, the journey is only about 30 minutes, with ticket prices starting at 10 EUR. Trains from Brussels and other Belgian cities are also frequent, offering a quick and comfortable option to reach Arras.
• By car: If you're driving, Arras is easily accessible via the A1 and A26 highways. The city is just under two hours from Paris and around 30 minutes from Lille, making it a perfect weekend getaway destination. For parking, there are five free park-and-ride facilities located just 10 minutes on foot from the city center: Esplanade, Crinchon, Citadelle, Bergaigne, and Artois Expo. And to make visiting the Christmas market more convenient, free shuttle buses are available on weekends, helping visitors reach the heart of the celebrations.
• By bus: Arras is also well-connected by regional and long-distance bus services. Many buses operate between Arras and other major towns in the Hauts-de-France region, including Lille, Amiens, and Paris, providing an affordable travel option. The main bus station is conveniently located close to the city center, making it easy for visitors to reach the Christmas market and other attractions.

Thanks to its central location in the Hauts-de-France region, Arras is easy to reach, making it an ideal base to explore not only the Christmas market but also the rich history and beautiful countryside surrounding the city.

THE CHRISTMAS MARKETS

The Arras Christmas market takes place across multiple locations, with the main attractions at Grand' Place and Place des Héros. Other highlights, such as the Elves' Village at Place du Théâtre and Santa Claus' House at Place Ipswich, are not covered in this blog post.

The Grand' Place is one of the most iconic and historic squares in Arras, known for its stunning architecture and lively atmosphere. Surrounded by elegant Flemish-Baroque buildings, this square is a central gathering place for both locals and visitors throughout the year. The beautifully restored town hall and the surrounding arcades make it a perfect spot to enjoy the charm of the city. With its large open space and rich history, the Grand' Place serves as a symbol of Arras' cultural heritage.

During the holiday season, the Grand' Place becomes the heart of Christmas cheer. The square transforms into a magical winter scene with a Ferris wheel, ice rink, and wooden chalets. This is where the Christmas market comes alive, with festive scents in the air and twinkling lights everywhere. The main food and drink stalls are also here, offering mulled wine, crêpes, and other holiday treats. Whether you're soaking up the festive atmosphere or admiring the beautiful buildings, the Grand' Place is a must-visit during your time in Arras!

Located in the heart of Arras, Place des Héros is a charming square that hosts the iconic Belfry, which stands at 75 meters tall. This historic landmark is a UNESCO World Heritage site and provides a stunning backdrop for the Christmas market held here every year. Beneath the Belfry, you'll find the underground museum, the Boves d'Arras, which were once used to extract chalk and played a significant role during World War I, serving as shelter during the Battle of Arras.

During the holiday season, Place des Héros offers a peaceful and cozy atmosphere. Quieter than the bustling Grand' Place, we loved its traditional decorations, beautiful Christmas tree, and wooden chalets selling festive treats and handmade gifts. The nostalgic carousel added a magical touch, especially for families. Visitors can also climb the Belfry for a breathtaking view of the city, including the Artois hills and the former mining basin. It’s a perfect spot to experience the warmth and spirit of the holiday season in Arras.

WHAT TO EAT AND DRINK?

The Arras Christmas market offers a variety of tasty treats to enjoy as you explore the festive stalls. Here are some delicious options to try:

• Gaufres (Waffles): Enjoy some freshly made waffles, served warm and topped with a variety of sweet options like whipped cream, chocolate sauce, powdered sugar, or seasonal fruits. They make for a perfect snack while exploring the market.
• Crêpes: Whether you prefer them filled with Nutella, sugar, or a fruit topping, crêpes are a must-try at the market. Soft, warm, and deliciously satisfying, they are a classic French treat.
• Churros: A popular treat at many European Christmas markets, churros are fried dough pastries dusted with sugar and cinnamon. Sweet, crispy, and perfect for satisfying your cravings.
• Tartiflette: This hearty dish is made with potatoes, cheese, bacon, and onions, all baked together in a creamy, delicious dish that’s perfect for warming up on chilly days at the market.
• Regional cheeses: Try local cheeses like Maroilles, Boulette d'Avesnes, or Vieux Lille. These cheeses are delicious on their own or served with bread, offering a true taste of the region.
• Pain d'épices (Gingerbread): Enjoy a slice of this delicious, spiced French gingerbread, often made with honey and a mix of aromatic spices like cinnamon and cloves. It’s a traditional festive treat perfect for the holiday season.
• Chocolat chaud (Hot chocolate): Savor a warm, rich cup of hot chocolate, ideal for warming up as you stroll through the festive stalls. Perfectly sweet and comforting!
• Vin chaud (Mulled wine): Warm up with a cup of vin chaud, a traditional French mulled wine spiced with cinnamon, cloves, and orange zest. It’s the perfect drink to enjoy as you take in the Christmas market atmosphere.
• Bière de Noël (Christmas beer): For those who prefer a festive brew, try a local Christmas beer, often spiced and rich in flavor, making it a perfect accompaniment to your holiday outing.

The food and drinks at the Arras Christmas Market add to the festive spirit. Make sure to try some of these tasty treats before leaving!

FINAL THOUGHTS

Visiting the Arras Christmas market was a magical experience for both of us. As a local from the region, I’ve always liked Arras, but experiencing it during the holidays added a special charm. From the lively Grand' Place with its festive stalls and Ferris wheel to the quieter, more traditional atmosphere at Place des Héros, we both felt fully immersed in the Christmas spirit. For Rafael, this was his first time visiting Arras at Christmas, and he was enchanted by the beautiful setting under the Belfry and the cozy market ambiance. It’s a perfect destination for anyone seeking a mix of history, culture, and holiday cheer!

We’d love to hear your thoughts on the Arras Christmas market and the festive magic of the city. Have you had the chance to explore its holiday charm? Share your experiences with us in the comments below.

Tags: France