Published on November 24, 2015, by Marseille Tourisme

The Christmas festivities have started with the opening of the Christmas market, and this Friday marks the beginning with the illuminations of the Phocaean city. Rumors have been circulating that Marseille doesn't know how to organize events that convey the magic of Christmas… Think again! Several events, and significant ones at that, are planned. Here's a sneak peek with this special Top 5 Christmas events. #OhOhOh

MARSEILLE TRADITION: THE SANTON FAIR

It may be kitschy, but hey, we love it! The Santon Fair takes place every year during the Christmas festivities and attracts a large number of visitors. The first fair dates back to 1803 when three sellers displayed their creations on Cours Saint-Louis. In 1808, the sellers were granted permission to set up their stalls on Cours Belsunce. Today, you have the privilege of shopping and strolling through the aisles at Place du Général de Gaulle.

Address

Place du Génral de Gaulle – métro Station Vieux-Port

Opening Hours

Du lundi au dimanche jusqu’au 31 décembre – de 09h à 19h

L'OMBRIÈRE TAKES THE STAGE

The Ombrière of the Vieux-Port adorns itself with its festive attire, hosting several events. From November 27th to January 11th, until 1 AM, you can witness a projection displayed on a carpet covering the entire surface, reflecting on the famous mirrored ceiling where passersby love to capture the moment. The second event, from December 23rd to January 2nd, features a giant and interactive projection beneath the mirror, with screens suspended by cables. The magic of Christmas is truly present at the Vieux-Port!

Address

Vieux Port

Opening Hours

Du lundi au dimanche jusqu’au 11 janvier

FOLLOW THE TRAMWAY!

Join us on Saturday, December 12th at 11 AM to follow the tramway along the marked path indicated by signage on the ground. Curious onlookers can witness various events at each tramway station. Discover poetic illustrations created on shop windows by local artists such as Madame Bambou, LiliB, and LN Graph. The different event locations are as follows: rue de Rome from 11 AM to 6 PM, Cours Saint Louis station from 11:30 AM to 2:45 PM, Rome Davso station from 11:30 AM to 4:30 PM, Place de Rome station from 1 PM to 6 PM, Dragon station from 2 PM to 3 PM, and Place de Rome from 11:30 AM to 1 PM.

Address

Rue de Rome 13006 Marseille

Opening Hours

Samedi 12 décembre de 11h à 18h

A TREASURE HUNT

Join us from Saturday, December 5th to Saturday, December 19th for an urban adventure: a real treasure hunt. Santa's sack contains some pretty cool gifts this year: comic books, museum passes, as well as vouchers worth €500, €100, and €50. A game that will allow you to explore the Canebière Libération neighborhood while playing the role of a private detective. For more information, click here.

Address 128 boulevard de la Libération 13004 Marseille

Opening Hours Saturday, December 5th to Saturday, December 19th.

THE LUMINOUS PARADE

We end on a high note with a luminous parade organized on the Vieux-Port on Sunday, December 13th at 5pm. An event that will enchant both young and old! A parade where visitors will be invited to join the show by trying to catch the fireflies that light up the Quai de la Fraternité, alongside the acrobats.

Address

Quai de la Fraternité – Vieux Port – 13001 Marseille

Opening Hours

Sunday, December 13th at 5pm.