Lyon Joins Paris, Strasbourg, Colmar, Nancy, Annecy, Bordeaux, Angers, Amiens and Épernay as France’s Must-See Christmas Light Destinations for 2025, Promising Unforgettable Holiday Magic!

Published on December 2, 2025

France has long been a beacon of holiday magic. In 2025, its cities will glow brighter than ever. From world-renowned festivals to charming Christmas markets, every corner is illuminated for travelers seeking festive joy. Whether it’s high-tech light projections or traditional candles, these destinations promise a holiday experience like no other.

Lyon – Fête des Lumières: A World-Class Festival of Light

Lyon kicks off the holiday season with its iconic Fête des Lumières from December 5-8, 2025. Visitors will be enchanted by immersive light displays across buildings, bridges, and public squares. Families and locals add a personal touch, placing small candles in windows, creating a city-wide glow. Strolling through Lyon’s historic streets is a photographer’s dream. The festival combines culture, technology, and festive spirit. For travelers, it’s a perfect start to a France Christmas tour.

Paris – The City of Light Shines Brighter

Paris transforms into a luminous wonderland from mid-November 2025 to early January 2026. Iconic streets like Champs-Élysées and Avenue Montaigne sparkle with elegant decorations. Department stores such as Galeries Lafayette and Printemps Haussmann dazzle visitors with window displays. Gardens and public spaces feature enchanting “light trails” for evening walks. Travelers can enjoy festive shopping and romantic strolls while experiencing the city’s legendary charm. Paris’ blend of history, lights, and holiday cheer makes it a global destination.

Strasbourg – Capital of Christmas Charm

Strasbourg celebrates the oldest Christmas Market in France from late November to December 24, 2025. The city’s half-timbered houses, decorated squares, and cathedral are illuminated in traditional Alsatian style. The Grande Île, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, features the Great Christmas Tree at Place Kléber. Travelers can explore local markets offering handcrafted gifts and seasonal delicacies. Strasbourg combines heritage, culture, and lights, making it an ideal stop for those seeking authentic European Christmas experiences.

Colmar – A Fairy-Tale Holiday Setting

From late November to late December 2025, Colmar’s historic center, especially “Petite Venise,” shines with festive illuminations. This charming town blends French and German architectural styles, reflected beautifully along its canals. Visitors can stroll cobblestone streets, admire decorated medieval houses, and feel like they’ve stepped into a holiday storybook. Colmar’s intimate scale and magical ambiance make it perfect for families, couples, and photographers. Every corner offers an Instagram-worthy view of French Christmas charm.

Nancy – Saint-Nicolas and Spectacular Video Mapping

Nancy lights up from late November 2025 to early January 2026 with Saint-Nicolas festivities. Place Stanislas, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, hosts captivating video mapping shows on its monumental façades. The projections often depict the city’s Saint-Nicolas legends. Travelers can enjoy guided walks through illuminated streets and local markets. Nancy is ideal for those who want cultural insight alongside festive celebrations. Its mix of heritage, lights, and family-friendly events offers a unique Lorraine holiday experience.

Annecy – Alpine Christmas Magic

Annecy, from mid-November 2025 to early January 2026, enchants visitors with lights reflecting on its canals and medieval streets. The nearby Château de Menthon-Saint-Bernard hosts Santa-themed events, perfect for families. Travelers can enjoy Christmas markets, festive workshops, and scenic evening walks. Annecy’s Alpine setting adds snow-capped charm to its lights. The combination of water, medieval streets, and holiday illumination makes it an ideal destination for those seeking winter wonderland vibes.

Bordeaux – Elegance and Seasonal Illuminations

Bordeaux welcomes travelers from late November 2025 to early January 2026. The city decorates Rue Sainte-Catherine and Place de la Bourse with festive lights. Seasonal markets feature local delicacies and handcrafted gifts. The Water Mirror at Place de la Bourse enhances the city’s illuminations, creating stunning reflections. Bordeaux offers both cultural exploration and holiday charm, combining wine traditions with festive displays. Its sophisticated ambiance makes it a must-see for travelers seeking elegance and holiday cheer.

Angers – Les Lumières de l’Hiver

Angers’ Winter Lights, from late November 2025 to early January 2026, illuminate the city center and Saint-Maurice Cathedral. Artistic projections and festive decorations turn the city into a cozy holiday destination. Travelers can stroll illuminated streets and enjoy seasonal markets and cafés. Angers offers an authentic French Christmas experience without the crowds of bigger cities. Its serene streets, softly glowing squares, and historic architecture create a magical and intimate holiday atmosphere.

Amiens – Northern France’s Holiday Glow

Amiens hosts a vibrant Christmas Market and festive illuminations from late November to late December 2025. The Notre-Dame Cathedral and main shopping streets light up beautifully, creating a Northern France winter charm. Travelers can explore cultural sites while enjoying seasonal treats. Amiens provides a quieter, yet equally magical, alternative for holiday travelers. The city’s Gothic architecture paired with sparkling lights offers stunning views for photographers and families alike. Evening walks feel cozy, festive, and memorable.

Épernay – Habits de Lumière and Champagne Festivities

Épernay shines in mid-December 2025 with its “Habits de Lumière” celebration. The Avenue de Champagne features elaborate illuminations, parades, and fireworks celebrating the world-famous Champagne region. Visitors can tour cellars, taste sparkling wines, and enjoy festive performances. Épernay offers a luxurious holiday experience combining gastronomy, culture, and spectacular lights. Travelers seeking sophistication, festive indulgence, and sparkling magic will find Épernay irresistible during the holiday season.

How to Make the Most of France Christmas Lights 2025

1. Plan Your Itinerary: Light festivals often overlap. Combine nearby cities for a richer experience.
2. Book Accommodations Early: Popular events, especially Lyon’s Fête des Lumières, draw large crowds.
3. Travel by Train: France’s rail network is efficient, connecting major Christmas destinations.
4. Bring a Camera: Evening illuminations are perfect for long-exposure photography. Tripods can help capture the full effect.
5. Explore Local Markets: Taste regional foods, shop handcrafted gifts, and join festive workshops for a complete experience.
6. Check Official Websites: Verify dates, opening hours, and special events through government and city websites for accurate planning.

Why France Should Be Your 2025 Christmas Destination

France offers a unique holiday experience for travelers worldwide. Each city has its own festive personality, from Lyon’s artistic light spectacles to Épernay’s Champagne celebrations. Historic streets, cozy markets, illuminated canals, and high-tech projections make every visit memorable. Short stays in multiple cities allow travelers to see diverse holiday traditions, cuisine, and local culture. With stunning visuals, cultural insights, and travel-friendly amenities, France in Christmas 2025 promises memories that last a lifetime.

France’s 2025 Christmas lights are a celebration of art, culture, and festive joy. Travelers can stroll through historic streets, visit iconic landmarks, enjoy seasonal foods, and experience world-class light displays. Each city offers its own magical perspective on the holiday season. From Alpine charm in Annecy to Alsatian traditions in Strasbourg, France becomes a global hub for Christmas enthusiasts. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore Europe’s most enchanting festive destinations, making your holiday truly unforgettable.