The Provins 2024 Medieval Christmas Market and festive entertainment is this weekend!

What sets this market apart from others is its authentic, fun atmosphere. Winter in Provins takes on a different face thanks to medieval entertainment that transports us back in time. The program includes juggling shows, knight fights and strolling musicians playing medieval tunes. In the evening, the market is decked out in lights, creating a warm and magical atmosphere that is sure to delight young and old alike.

In the lower town, the craft market awaits you with gastronomic specialities, mulled wine, jewelry and decorative items, not forgetting the presence of Santa Claus, his letter-box where you can tell him what you'd like to buy, a big tombola with the shopkeepers and an advent calendar for all the children! Traditional dances and gourmet banquets will keep you warm. For the occasion, the taverns set up on site will offer typical dishes of the period, blending spices and local produce, perfect for transporting us back to another era. And don't miss the period costumes worn by the artisans and entertainers, adding an extra touch of magic to this already extraordinary event.

The market is an opportunity to browse and discover local products and handcrafted creations, ideal for original Christmas gifts. You'll find jewelry, wooden toys, ceramics and many other handmade items in a friendly, festive atmosphere. It's also an opportunity to chat with the artisans, learn about their craft and, why not, try your hand at certain techniques.

Christmas at Provins 2024 program:

The Medieval Market

The Place du Châtel and the Place Saint-Quiriace will host some 60 demonstrators of traditional crafts. Troubadours, jugglers and fire-eaters will enliven the market in a convivial atmosphere. The market is open free of charge on Saturday, December 14, from 11am to 10pm, and on Sunday, December 15, from 10am to 6pm, for the enjoyment of young and old alike.

The Living Crib

The Living Crib by Saint Francis of Assisi will be performed in the Collegiate Church of Saint-Quiriace. Fifty actors, accompanied by real animals such as a wolf, a donkey and the camels of the Magi, will recount the story of the Nativity. Free performances take place on Saturday, December 14 at 2pm, 3.15pm, 4.30pm and 5.45pm, and on Sunday, December 15 at 2.30pm, 4pm and 5.30pm. Get there early, as places are limited!

Medieval Camps and Workshops

In Rue Bourg Neuf and at the foot of the Tour César, discover civilian and military encampments that plunge you into everyday life in the Middle Ages. Wooden games, face painting, archery and leather purses are all on the program. Most of these activities are free of charge, and will be open non-stop on Saturday December 14 and Sunday December 15.

Christmas Markets

The traditional Christmas Market, located in Place du Maréchal Leclerc and Rue du Val, will feature contemporary crafts, gourmet specialties and a new feature: an 8-metre ice wall for climbing enthusiasts. The market opens on Saturday, December 14, from 9.30am to 10pm, and on Sunday, December 15, from 9.30am to 6pm. At the Châtel farm, you'll find local producers, fireside tastings, and the fun activity of axe throwing, all open to the public on December 14 and 15.

Guided and dramatized tours

For history buffs, two experiences are not to be missed. The guided tour "La Fête au Moyen Âge", lasting 1h30, will introduce you to medieval traditions on Saturday, December 14 at 15h30 and Sunday, December 15 at 14h30 (€12 per participant, by reservation). Even more immersive, the "Legends and Beliefs" theatrical tour explores medieval myths in Provins' underground passages. These 45-minute sessions take place on December 14 at 2pm, 3pm, 4pm, 5pm and 6pm, and on December 15 at 11am, 12pm, 2pm, 3pm and 4pm (€16 per person, booking required).

Santa Claus and the Caesar Tower

Meet Santa Claus in the lower room of the Tour César, where children can hand him their letters and take souvenir photos. This magical event takes place on December 14, 15, 21, 22, 23 and 24, from 3pm to 6pm. Admission is €5 for adults and €3 for children aged 4 to 12.

The ice rink and Philippe Candeloro's show

On the forecourt of the Saint-Ayoul Cultural Center, a 420 m² skating rink on natural ice will be open every day from December 6, 2024 to January 5, 2025, with late-night openings until 9pm on Saturdays. On Thursday December 12 at 7pm, Philippe Candeloro will present a free show combining magic and performance on ice. Admission to the rink is €7 for adults and €6 for children under 12, including skates.

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Santa's Steam Train

On December 7 and 8, climb aboard an authentic steam train dating from the early XXᵉ century for a unique escapade. Departure from Longueville SNCF station at 1:30pm, return scheduled for 5pm. Return fares are €40 for adults and €20 for children aged 6 to 11 (free for children under 6). Reservations required.

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