I always love visiting towns during the Christmas season, and even in the South of France they are all dolled up. Every year, I try to go and see three of my favourites: Montpellier, Béziers and Narbonne. I hope this article will inspire you to go yourself if you’re around. If not, it might help to virtually bring some Christmas sparkles to you from the South of France.
Montpellier
In Montpellier, ‘Les Hivernales‘ cover the city in a winter glow from November 23 to December 24. A giant Christmas tree decorates the Place de la Comédie, and many little ones decorate the maze-like little streets of the historic centre. This year, most festivities are located on the Promenade Royale du Peyrou, like the merry Christmas market. Numerous local artists and crafters sell their unique goods at over 100 stands. Even the Château d’Eau is set in the spotlights with cheerful illuminations. This is also the place where children can post their letter to Santa Claus in a special post box. Every Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday from 14h30 to 17h30, there will be plenty of activities and animations for the kids and they can meet Santa Claus.
Office de Tourisme, 30 Allée Jean de Lattre de Tassigny
Narbonne
From November 30 to January 5, charming Narbonne turns into a magical Christmas destination during ‘Les Féeries de Noël’. This includes a joyfully decorated Place de l’Hôtel-de-Ville and the beautifully shimmering Passage de l’Ancre that leads to the cathedral. Get yourself a cup of mulled wine or hot cocoa at the lively Christmas market on the Cours de la République while the kids have a ride at the small ice rink. Across the water at the Cours Mirabeau, a funfair adds to the joy. This year, the tower of the Palais des Archevêques is festively illuminated. And when night falls, all the lights shimmer and shine even more. Narbonne has also organised other events, which you can read about here. And ‘Père Noël’ is present daily (apart from Mondays) from 16h00 to 19h00 (and some days from 14h00) at Place du Forum.
Office de Tourisme, 31 rue Jean Jaurès
Béziers
Every year, it is a big surprise how Béziers dresses up for Christmas. The city takes great care in transforming the historical city centre into a Winter Wonderland. You can visit the decorations and illuminations from November 23 till January 5. They are mainly scattered around the Place Jean Jaurès, including a giant Christmas tree at the feet of Paul Riquet’s statue. While admiring the beautiful twinkling lights, you can warm yourself at one of the food stands along Les Allées Paul Riquet or find the perfect gift to put under your tree. Of course, music and parades will cheer up the city centre. And you might even singalong Christmas carols with a traditional banda! On top of that, the musical fountains at the Place Jean Jaurès will change colours and tunes to fit the seasonal fun, a funfair lands at the Place du 14 Juillet, and more. Here you can read the complete program.
Office de Tourisme, Place du Forum
