What to do during the Christmas holidays in Bordeaux

Sightseeing ideas during the Christmas holidays in Bordeaux

Experience the magic of Christmas in Bordeaux this year! Immerse yourself in the sumptuous decor of some of Bordeaux's most beautiful monuments, and try your hand at some unusual and gourmet activities. 

Undoubtedly one of Bordeaux's most spectacular monuments, the Grand-Théâtre, designed at the end of the 18th century by architect Victor Louis, is one of the few to retain an auditorium built entirely of wood. Come and discover its façade, vestibule, grand staircase and auditorium, all visible from a glassed-in dressing room. 

And when you think of Christmas, you think of treats! Immerse yourself in the history of Bordeaux's architectural jewels, while sampling delicious local specialities. And what better way to admire Bordeaux's beautiful façades from the river? Come aboard the Sicambre for a lunch cruise, cruise the Port de la lune aboard the Yacht de Bordeaux or take a guided cruise aboard the Burdigala.
 

Animations, Rides, Decor, and Lights

Once again this year, Bordeaux will don its finest attire to celebrate the magic of Christmas starting November 29, 2024. The traditional Christmas Market returns to the majestic Place des Quinconces, offering a more spacious setting to welcome exhibitors and visitors alike.

December 6th marks the start of the festivities in Bordeaux. Don’t miss the highlight of the season: the illumination of the famous glass Christmas tree on Place Pey-Berland. The glass and steel artwork, created by artist Arnaud Lapierre, will light up Place Pey-Berland from December 6th to January 5th, 2024, every day from 7:30 AM to 9:30 AM, and again from 4:30 PM to midnight. This "sustainable" 11-meter-high tree has become the "star" of the holiday season in Bordeaux. The evening will kick off at 6 PM on Place de la Comédie with a magical performance by the Opera Chorus, followed by a joyful marching band parade to Place Pey-Berland. As every year, the streets of downtown Bordeaux will be illuminated with stunning decorations inspired by the chandeliers of theater halls until January 6th.

The Christmas season promises wonderful surprises with attractions for all ages:

• Video Projections: The Limelight company’s video projections on the Grand Théâtre will be visible every evening from December 6th to January 5th, from 5:30 PM to midnight (Place de la Comédie). For children’s delight, a brand-new video mapping show, "Santa's Garden," will be projected on the west facade of the Saint-André Cathedral, Place Pey-Berland, on Fridays and Saturdays (December 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, and 21).
   
• The Magic of Carousels: Little (and big) elves will have plenty of choices to enjoy a carousel ride. The famous Monsieur Caramel carousel on the Allées de Tourny offers the best view of the Grand Théâtre, while its neighbor in the shape of a Christmas tree invites visitors to admire Bordeaux from within a giant Christmas bauble. For thrill-seekers, the Ferris wheel provides a breathtaking view of the entire city illuminated from Place des Quinconces. In all districts of Bordeaux, charitable carousels bring joy and wonder to young children.
   
• An Ice Rink: For the first time, a dry skating rink has been installed on the Allées de Tourny, offering a chance to enjoy the thrill of skating in the heart of the city. Come and take a spin from November 22nd to January 12th.
   
• Moments of Sharing and Culture: Bordeaux makes sure no one is left out during this festive period. Cultural institutions offer free shows for young audiences, combining entertainment and discovery. Numerous festive events organized by local associations will also enhance the program, ensuring a warm atmosphere throughout all Bordeaux’s neighborhoods.

Bordeaux invites you to immerse yourself in the magic of Christmas and create unforgettable memories. Come and discover a city adorned with lights, animations, and the warm spirit of the holiday season.

The Elves Are Back in Action at Bordeaux's Christmas Markets

The Christmas Market is returning to Bordeaux this year, setting up on Place des Quinconces from Friday, November 29, to Sunday, December 29, 2024. Nestled between the Antique Dealers’ stalls and the Fontaine aux Girondins, this magical market is open daily from 11 AM to 9 PM. With over 100 chalets offering handcrafted creations and festive treats, there’s something for everyone. Families won’t want to miss a visit to Santa’s chalet or the area dedicated to charitable organizations. The warm aromas of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts make this market a truly unique experience.

For those seeking local and original creations, don’t miss these unique Christmas markets! While the must-visit X-Mas Market at Darwin (December 8–15, 2024, from 9 AM to 6 PM) needs no introduction, other initiatives on both sides of the Garonne are well worth exploring. Discover artwork, original prints, and charming cards at the "Grande Supérette de Noël" at POLA on December 14 and 15 (from 2 PM to 8 PM on Saturday and 11 AM to 7 PM on Sunday). If you’re looking for unique handmade gifts, head to the i’boat - Blonde Venus for the 13th edition of its famous Super Christmas Market (Saturday, December 7, from 10 AM to 8 PM, and Sunday, December 8, from 10 AM to 7 PM).
 

© Nicolas Duffaure

Bordeaux’ Christmas shows

• Le Grand Cirque Gruss from December 20 to January 26: with its extravagant theme, this year's edition will be packed with international stars who will dazzle us under the big top at Place des Quinconces. Between illusions and dreams, trapeze artists, clowns and acrobats will present us with their finest acts.
• The Opéra National de Bordeaux: the symphony concert will take us on a journey from December 19 to 22 at the auditorium. And since Christmas is also the perfect time to immerse yourself in the magic of a ballet, the Opéra will be reviving the famous ballet The Nutcracker from December 5 to 31. 
• The Arkéa Aréna will be staging several magical Christmas concerts/shows for the whole family: The World Magic Festival will open the festivities on 30 November and 1 December. The magical world of Disney will then enchant young and old alike with the Disney in concert - Magical music from the movies, on 6 December. Finally, the Harry Potter Ciné Concert will be back to enchant us on 28 December.

© Eric Berg

Festive treats to get your teeth into during your stay in Bordeaux 

Bordeaux's chocolatiers are bursting with talent and creativity! Origines, France's first visitable organic chocolate factory, has taken up residence in Darwin and immerses you in a magical Christmas atmosphere. Between visits or shopping sprees, push open the doors of historic Bordeaux houses such as Cadiot Badie, Saunion and Darricau. Creativity and expertise are the watchwords of the younger houses: the Ganache chocolate factory in a restaurant on rue Saint-Rémi, Thierry Lalère's two workshops (rue Fondaudège and rue Bouffard) and the Hasnaâ chocolate factory, with two stores on rue Fondaudège and rue de la Vieille Tour.

And don't forget to make a detour to the home of talented pastry chef Pierre Matthieu, not forgetting Maison Seguin for a taste of their chocolate Puits d'Amour. And if you're tempted, you can sample the specialties of the new Mots Doux pastry house, which has opened its own tearoom on rue Fondaudège.