Tired of the same old Christmas routine? Boring office parties and gift socks nobody wants? Then get ready to upgrade your holiday season at the Strasbourg Christmas Market 2024, where Christmas is done right. Forget your local sad attempt at festive cheer — this is the OG of holiday markets. Since 1570, Strasbourg has been doing Christmas better than anyone else, and in 2024, it’s only getting bigger and more over-the-top.
The History: Yeah, It’s Old
Let’s start with a history lesson you didn’t ask for but totally need. The Strasbourg Christmas Market has been around since 1570. That’s over 450 years of perfecting the art of Christmas. This isn’t your local pop-up market with two sad stalls selling overpriced hot chocolate. This is one of Europe’s oldest Christmas market. That’s right, while your ancestors were trading chickens, Strasbourg was already sipping mulled wine in style.
Originally, this market was all about religion — you know, baby Jesus, Advent, that whole thing. But now, it’s the perfect excuse to buy things you don’t need and stuff yourself with enough food to hibernate until spring.
When’s It Happening? Dates You Shouldn’t Forget
Mark your calendars: November 27 to December 27, 2024. You’ve got a whole month to make up excuses about why you deserve a pre-Christmas holiday. And trust me, you do.
The market runs daily, with extended hours on weekends because, duh, that’s when the serious Christmas revellers show up. Expect crowds — but don’t worry, elbowing your way to the mulled wine stand is practically a Strasbourg tradition.
Where It’s At: The City That Owns Christmas
Where It’s At: The City That Owns ChristmasThe Strasbourg Christmas Market takes over the entire city centre like it’s the boss of Christmas — and, frankly, it is. Most of the action is around Place Kléber, Place Broglie and the Cathedral Square. Just follow the blindingly bright lights and swarms of happy people. You can’t miss it.
What to Expect: Christmas Overload
Here’s what you’re in for:
- 300+ stalls of gifts you probably won’t buy but will totally Instagram.
- Food: Alsatian treats that will make you forget how tight your jeans already feel. Don’t skip the Bredele or Flammekueche. And yes, drink all the vin chaud. All of it.
- Lights and Decorations: It’s like Christmas threw up everywhere—and we’re here for it. The tree in Place Kléber is basically a celebrity at this point.
- Culture: Concerts, choirs, and performances you’ll pretend you’re cultured enough to appreciate.
Why You Should Go: The FOMO Is Real
If you skip the Strasbourg Christmas Market 2024, be prepared to see everyone else’s festive photos while you sit at home next to a sad artificial tree. Seriously, it’s Christmas done properly. So, stop pretending your town’s one Santa sleigh and cheap decorations are cutting it and treat yourself to the real deal.
