Christmas markets in France are coming to life in 2009 as the season nears its full stride. Still, largely unblemished by acres of malls and parking lots, Christmas spills into the streets in cities and villages throughout France. From the grand department stores of Paris to Menton on the Mediterranean, Christmas markets are overflowing with French tradition, flare and craft.

Dozens of Christmas markets can be found throughout the country. The three largest markets, being held in Northern France, are in Paris, Strasbourg (in its 431^st year) and Lille. More than a bazaar of Christmas trinkets, these markets are the perfect place to find unique gifts, handcrafted ornaments and, some real Christmas cheer. The markets provide a great gathering place for the locals to meet and share time of reminiscing and planning for the holidays, surrounded by a festive atmosphere their plans will be forged.

Many of the Christmas markets, especially those in rural areas, will provide their visitors with the ingredients for their holiday dishes. A culinary potpourri of spices, produce and meats, housewives and cooks, will be gathering everything they need for that magical Christmas dinner.

Markets you don’t want to miss:

Paris

Dec 5 – 31  Boulevard St. Germain/Place St. Sulpice
Enjoy some vin chaud, a mulled wine, while the children visit with Père Noël.
Head over to Hôtel de Ville for some ice skating when finished shopping, if your feet can still take it.

Strasbourg

Nov. 28 – Dec. 31 City Center / La Petite France

This market is among the oldest in Europe at age 431. The unique mixed Franco-German flavor of Strasbourg and the beautiful timbered homes and store fronts provide gingerbread like air to this large and flavorful market.  Easy access from Paris makes this a wonderful day or overnight trip.
Getting to Strasbourg from Paris is fast and economical on the TGV. Time: 2h17 via TGV Paris Gare Est to Strasbourg. Cost: Comfort 1^st class about USD $106

Avignon

Nov. 29 – Dec. 30
A Provançal extravaganza of traditional religious observance, family gathering and, culinary delights. Features include an animated crèche, parades, folk dancing, markets and, the traditional midnight mass followed by the Christmas feast. Tradition states this feast should include no less than 13 desserts. If you can find your way into a French home, do it.

Getting to Avignon from Paris Time: 2h40 Gare Lyon to Avignon TGV Economy about USD $136

Other markets around France:

Besançon (Franche Comte) – Nov. 28 – Dec. 24

Chartres (Loire Valley) – Dec. 19 – Dec. 27

Menton (Provence Cote d’Azur) – Dec. 12 – Jan. 10

Brest (Brittany) – Dec. 1 – Dec. 24

Lille (Nord Pas de Calais) – Nov. 18 – Dec. 30

Mulhouse (Alsace) – Nov. 24 – Dec. 27
Montélimar (Rhone-Alps) – Dec. 18 – Dec. 24

Getting around France and where to stay: Riding the Rails in France, Train Tickets, Choosing a hotel, Renting an apartment in France.

Special thanks to my friends at Franceguide.com