Christmas in Neuf-Brisach: Traditions, Encounters, and the Atmosphere of Yesteryear
In Neuf-Brisach, we travel back in time to relive a Christmas as it was in 1700, during the era of Vauban. Behind the geometric ramparts of the fortified town, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Vauban’s masterpieces, the Christmas market is transformed into a genuine period village.
During an Advent weekend, in Neuf-Brisach, the Christmas spirit takes over the Vauban fortress town, which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Inside this star-shaped city, within the ramparts on the central square, an extraordinary Christmas market comes to life with its 1700s village.
Illuminations, wooden installations, straw on the ground, artisans dressed in period costumes and braziers:
here, you are transported back to the time of Vauban and discover village life during the era of the famous royal military architect.
Continue with a visit to the adjacent traditional Christmas market, enjoy local specialities and admire the large Christmas tree as it lights up at nightfall.
© 2019-Sylvie Petit Photography-ADT-AEThe 1700 Village
It feels as if we’ve traveled back in time, stepping right into Vauban’s era.
In historical costumes, embroiderers, weavers, clog makers, blacksmiths, and carpenters bring this reconstituted village to life. Each artisan is busy at work, diligently using their traditional tools in front of curious visitors, with precise gestures.
We stop, observe, and exchange with them. The enticing smell of bredele (traditional Alsace Christmas cookies) leads us to the pastry chefs who are cutting out the little cookies using festive cookie cutters. While some warm themselves by a fire, we move on to watch the basket maker weaving wicker to create a basket. Such craftsmanship! We try our hand at spinning wool, while others saw a log together in pairs.
The straw crunches beneath our feet, the braziers warm the air, and a wild boar slowly turns on the spit in front of flickering flames.
We enjoy a plate of roast boar while sitting on one of the tavern benches, keeping an eye on the children who are enjoying crepes near the wooden games.
The atmosphere is joyful, relaxed, and warm, fully immersing us in Vauban's time for a true journey back in time!
© Alsace Essentielle – Quentin GachonThe Traditional Christmas Market
After a beautiful story from a storyteller, we continue our stroll toward the traditional Christmas market.
Under the sparkling Christmas garlands, the wooden stalls are filled with handmade creations and artisanal products: handcrafted decorations, scented candles, blown glass objects... but also gingerbread, honey, and jams. Each exhibitor passionately presents the fruits of their craftsmanship.
We marvel at the live nativity scene and the farm animals, and have fun writing with a quill in an old classroom.
As night falls, the garlands light up, and the magic of Christmas envelops the square while the voices of a choir sing a Christmas carol.
Holding a warm cup of spiced apple juice, we look up at the grand Christmas tree, which is just as tall as the one in Strasbourg.
Discovering Neuf-Brisach
Walking in Vauban’s Footsteps with a Costumed Tour
Go on a guided tour of the Neuf-Brisach fortress and its impressive fortifications with a guide dressed in period costume. It’s an immersive and playful experience that takes you deep into the heart of the city's history.
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Discover the Vibrant World of Street Art Inside the Ramparts of Neuf-Brisach
In the heart of the ramparts, in a former casemate, the Museum of Urban Art and Street Art (MAUSA Vauban) opens its doors for an unusual immersion into urban art. Explore works by internationally renowned street artists in a unique historical setting.
DiscoverOther Highlights Nearby
Advent calendar
Nativity Scene Exhibition
Decoration: like a luster
Exhibition: Meisenthal baubles
History of the Christmas tree
Exhibition: 1521, the tradition of the Christmas tree
Round of the night-watchman
St. Lucie's Day, festival of light
Launch of the Christmas festivities
Christmas time in Sélestat : Let Advent Begin
Christmas bakehouse in the Bread Museum of Alsace
Giant crib in St Antoine Church
Other Christmas markets nearby
Extend the Magic of Christmas in Alsace
© Max Coquard - Best Jobers - ADTA traditional new year's eve at the Alsace Ecomuseum
Immerse yourself in the early 20th century on a larger-than-life journey through time. The Ecomuseum of Alsace invites you to discover a living museum and a reconstructed historical village. Experience the preparations for Advent in the purest of Alsatian traditions. Get in the spirit!
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© V. Muller - ADTEnchanted Forest and Christmas activities in Altkirch
In southern Alsace, the magic of Christmas is more than just a dream: it's an experience. In Altkirch, we walk through the fairy tales, surrounded by a living story book.
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© Ville de Sélestat - ADTThe Unmissable Highlights and Events in Sélestat
In Sélestat, the magic of Christmas revolves around the Christmas tree. The first written mention of this holiday tradition dates to 1521 and is preserved at the town’s Humanist Library.
DiscoverAlsace has everything for an incredible journey
dreaming of Alsace
Hone your baking skills at the Maison du Pain in Sélestat
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