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While perhaps not as elaborate as some of the other Christmas markets in the Alsace, Sélestat Christmas Market has the unique distinction of being where you can find the world’s first written mention of the almighty Christmas Tree.
… which (for history nerds like us) makes it pretty cool.
These days, Christmas festivities in Sélestat pay homage to this unique historical legacy, with special exhibitions about the Christmas tree and (as expected) lots of Christmas tree displays around town.
We first visited this Christmas market in November 2019 and enjoyed perusing the various Christmas tree-themed displays and exhibitions, along with the more typical Christmas market offerings in the city.
Looking to learn more about Sélestat Christmas Market, or perhaps need some guidance on planning your own trip there?
In this post, we’ll be covering…
- Practical Info for Sélestat Christmas Market
- Why Visit Sélestat Christmas Market?
- Christmas Markets in Sélestat to Visit
- More Photos of Sélestat Christmas Market
We hope you find it helpful and interesting!
Practical Info for Sélestat Christmas Market 2024
Here are some quick must-knows for Sélestat Christmas Market this year:
- 2024 Dates: Nov 22 – Dec 29, 2024
- Official website: Click here
In need of a place to stay? Here are some quick hotel recommendations:
- Budget: Check prices and availability
- Mid-Range: Check prices and availability
- Luxury: Check prices and availability
Why Visit Sélestat Christmas Market?
Wondering whether Sélestat Christmas Market is worth a trip? Here are some reasons to visit:
It has a lot of unique activities
We must admit, with competition being so stiff around the Alsace, Sélestat’s Christmas markets aren’t the most elaborate or beautiful to be found in the region.
BUT what it lacks in flair and pomp, it makes up for in depth and unique attractions.
As you’ll see below, the Sélestat Christmas market scene isn’t just about market stalls and mulled wine, it’s about celebrating the unique history of one of the world’s most beloved traditions, which it does very well through an organized program of attractions and things to do.
For history lovers who want to appreciate a Christmas market for more than just being pretty, Sélestat is a great underrated choice.
It’s very close to other noteworthy Christmas markets in the Alsace
Located somewhat halfway between the famous markets of Colmar and Strasbourg, Sélestat makes a great pit stop during an Alsace Christmas market road trip.
Its close proximity to other beautiful markets like the ones in Eguisheim, Riquewihr, Ribeauvillé and Kaysersberg (all less than 30 minutes away by car) also means you can visit multiple markets in a day or two.
Christmas Market & Festive Sights in Sélestat to Visit
Wondering where to find Christmas market stalls in Sélestat? Here are the main locations of Sélestat Christmas Market:
Place d’Armes
The main area for Christmas market stalls in Sélestat is Place d’Armes, where you’ll find about two dozen wooden stalls scattered around selling a variety of food and handmade gifts.
St George’s Church
Another noteworthy Christmas attraction to visit in Sélestat is St George’s Church, the largest church in the city, which has for years held an exhibition all about the history of the Christmas tree and tree decoration.
As part of the program, you’ll find ten fir trees suspended from the nave – a unique sight to be sure, and actually an homage to the original way that Christmas trees used to be displayed in Alsace.
Throughout December, they also have a special illuminations show projected on the front of the church, which is free for all visitors!
Église Saint-Foy
Another fun little Sélestat Christmas spot to check out is the Église Saint-Foy, where you’ll find a chandelier inside made up of Christmas baubles by Meisenthal in the shape of… you guessed it, a Christmas tree!
La Place du Marché Vert
And just outside of the church, you’ll find a lovely little rice rink, which (we’ve been told) becomes a fairly lively place on evenings and weekends!
More Photos of Sélestat Christmas Market
Looking for some more Sélestat Christmas Market eye candy? Here are some additional photos we captured during our visit:
We hope you enjoyed this Sélestat Christmas Market Guide!
Let us know in the comments if you have any more questions about your trip – we’re always happy to help.