Christmas in the Fontainebleau District
As the weather cools and December begins the happy holiday signs are raised in the villages and the Christmas season has arrived. At the time of writing there are well over a hundred events happening in the Fontainebleau District with villages having Christmas markets, visits from Father Christmas, dinners, plays and many other celebrations to wind up the year.
The Fontainebleau District embraces the Christmas season (période de fêtes) with a distinct blend of historic grandeur and community warmth. As the weather cools and December begins, the region, encompassing the main town and surrounding villages, lights up with holiday signs and a multitude of celebrations. This period offers an ideal, tranquil winter getaway from the bustle of Paris.
The area is filled with numerous annual events, ensuring a comprehensive experience of the yuletide season.
Village Markets: Many local villages host traditional Christmas markets (or Marchés de Noël), featuring artisanal goods, winter delicacies, and opportunities to meet Father Christmas (Père Noël).
Town Spectacles: Larger towns like Fontainebleau and Nemours put on full Christmas spectacles and decorative displays. The town of Fontainebleau typically creates a dedicated Christmas village with family activities like sledding, miniature trains, and a festive lantern descent parade.
Art and Decoration: Local attractions, such as Les Jardins de Provence, are often in full Christmas decoration every year. The start of the two-week school holiday around the twentieth of December marks the beginning of the most intense period of festivities.
2025 Christmas Calendar
- 26th November
- Salon Impérial Chocolat (28th -30th)
- La Boutique Éphémère (28th - 7th Dec)
- Marché de Noël du Pôle Missionnaire (29th - 30th)
- 29th November
- December 1st
- December 3rd
- Marché de Noël at Héricy (6th - 7th)
- Marché de Noël Veneux-Les Sablons (6th - 7th)
- 6th December
- 7th December
- Christmas Concerts: "Noël au château" (12th to 14th)
- Salon de Noël des Jeux de Dames (12th - 14th)
- Marché de Noël de Fontainebleau (12th to 14th)
- 13th December
- 14th December
- 17th December
- Marché de Noël at Moret-sur-Loing (19th - 22th)
- 20th December
- Spectacle de Noël (21st - 3rd)
- 21st December
- Lutinou... Père Noël malgré lui (22nd - 24th)
26th November
Le Bus de Noël passe par Fontainebleau !
You are invited to drop off your new or excellent condition toys at any of the following stops:
When: 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Where: Stade Benjamin Gonzo in Avon
Salon Impérial Chocolat (28th -30th)
The Château de Fontainebleau will host the 8th edition of the "Salon Impérial Chocolat" (Imperial Chocolate Fair), an exceptional event for chocolate lovers, artisans, and gastronomic culture enthusiasts.
This three-day event offers a unique sensory and heritage experience within the Château.
When: Friday, November 28th to Sunday, November 30th, 2025.
Where: Château de Fontainebleau.
imperialchocolat-fontainebleau.fr
La Boutique Éphémère (28th - 7th Dec)
A Pop-up Shop (La Boutique Éphémère), featuring local artisans and artists with gift ideas, will be open in Moret-sur-Loing.
Where: Maison Lesage – 28, Rue Grande, Moret-sur-Loing
When: 10:30 to 18:00
The shop offers gift suggestions from local creators for the holiday season.
Marché de Noël du Pôle Missionnaire (29th - 30th)
Join the Pôle Missionnaire for their annual Christmas Fair! It's the perfect place to find delightful items for all ages, including the essential Advent wreath to decorate your home for the season.
Where: Maison de la Mission (Ground Floor), 2 rue de la paroisse, Fontainebleau
When:
- Saturday, November 29 from 10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
- Sunday, November 30 from 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
29th November
Avon fête Noël
The traditional market will be transformed into a festive event featuring artisanal gifts, local products, and a variety of entertainment. Highlights include a guided nature walk, numerous local exhibitors (jewelry, ceramics, etc.), donkey rides for families, cartoon mascots, a photo booth, and plenty of food and treats. It is a community event designed to kick off the Christmas season.
When: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Where: Place du marché du Vieil Avon, 77210 Avon
December 1st
Illuminations de Noël at Montigny-sur-Loing
Date: Monday, December 1, 2025
Time: 5:30 p.m.
Location: Town Hall Square
Refreshments: Hot chocolate and a light snack will be served.
December 3rd
Le Bus de Noël passe par Fontainebleau !
A "Christmas Bus" is touring the area this year to collect toys for children supported by the Restos du Cœur charity, aiming to bring them some holiday cheer.
You are invited to drop off your new or excellent condition toys at any of the following stops:
When: 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Where: Stade Philippe Mahut in Fontainebleau
Marché de Noël at Héricy (6th - 7th)
Dates and Times:
Saturday, December 6: 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Sunday, December 7: 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
General Activities (Both Days):
- Exhibitors (Artisans and Merchants)
- Rides and Donkey Rides
- Food available on site
- Children's Workshops
- Meet Santa Claus and his elves
Marché de Noël Veneux-Les Sablons (6th - 7th)
The Christmas Market in Veneux-Les Sablons will be held at the Maison des Associations (Association House) and is organized by the CMPA.
When: 10:00 to 18:30
Where: Maison des Associations
6th December
Free Parking in Fontainebleau
On Saturday, December 6, parking is free throughout the city! It's the perfect opportunity to stroll around, do your Christmas shopping, and enjoy the festivities at your leisure.
La phrase secrète du Père Noël
- Collect the words from the shops to form the mystery phrase.
- Bring the completed phrase to the Place de la République.
- Spin the 100% winning prize wheel!
Throughout the day, participants will win discount vouchers and gifts provided by UCAIF merchants.
Time: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM / 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Where: Place de la République, Fontainebleau
Qui veut la peau du magicien?
Magician Sébastien Mossière presents his new show at the Théâtre municipal on Saturday, December 6th at 7 PM. The story is set in a great school of sorcery where a clumsy professor must save his students from an evil specter. Expect thrills, laughter, and grand illusions.
- Age: Suitable for ages 6 and up.
- Booking:
La Fête des Lumières
An event called the "Festival of Lights" (La Fête des Lumières) is being held in the heart of Moret-sur-Loing.
Time: 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
7th December
Christmas Wreath Workshop
Join us for a cozy afternoon of mulled wine, Christmas treats, and wreath crafting!
In this hands-on workshop, you’ll learn everything you need to create timeless, natural Christmas wreaths, perfect for keeping this festive tradition alive year after year.
Our workshop leader, Simin Van den Daele, is a talented creative with extensive experience in design and all things charming. She will guide you through every step of the process, ensuring your wreath is both beautiful and unique.
Event Details
Crossroads Members: €40 per participant (35€ to the host, 5€ to the association)
Non-Members: €50 per participant (35€ to the host, 15€ to the association)
Optional Materials Package: €10 - Includes frame, moss, and wire to help get your creation started.
Membership Option: Non-members can join our Crossroads membership (€30 per family per year) and enjoy the member price for the workshop. More info on our website: https://www.crossroadsfontainebleau.com/join-us.
After Registration: Once your payment is confirmed, a detailed materials list will be sent to the email address used at sign-up.
Come relax, get creative, and make something beautiful for the holidays!
Concert "Les Plus Beaux Ave Maria du Monde"
This special concert, directed by Jean-Marie Puissant, will feature a selection of "The World's Most Beautiful Ave Marias."
Time: 4:30 PM (16h30)
Where: Saint-Louis Church in Fontainebleau (Église Saint-Louis, Rue de la Paroisse)
Tickets are available online.
Christmas Concerts: "Noël au château" (12th to 14th)
The main event is a series of Christmas concerts featuring works by J.S. Bach and contemporary composers.
Program Highlights:
- J.S. Bach's Christmas Oratorio (Cantatas 1, 5, 6)
- Works by Hugo Distler, Jan Sandström, and Thomas Adès.
Performers: The Balthasar Neumann Choir and Orchestra, directed by Lionel Sow, featuring several international soloists (Julian Prégardien, Agnes Kovacs, etc.).
Dates & Times:
- Friday, December 12: 7:30 PM (19h30)
- Saturday, December 13: 7:30 PM (19h30)
- Sunday, December 14: 3:00 PM (15h00)
Location: Salle de Bal (Ballroom) of the Château de Fontainebleau.
Duration: 70 minutes, without intermission.
Information and ticket booking are available online.
Salon de Noël des Jeux de Dames (12th - 14th)
When: The event runs for three days in December 2025:
- Friday, December 12: Private view from 6:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.
- Saturday, December 13: 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
- Sunday, December 14: 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Where: Salle des fêtes (Fête Hall) of the Théâtre Municipal de Fontainebleau.
Marché de Noël de Fontainebleau (12th to 14th)
The Fontainebleau Christmas Market will take place from December 12th to 14th at the Place de la République and the Hôtel de Ville (City Hall) Courtyard.
Friday, Dec 12: 10 AM – 8 PM
Saturday, Dec 13: 10 AM – 9 PM
Sunday, Dec 14: 10 AM – 6 PM
Children's events
Concert (Saturday, Dec 13, 11:30 AM): Brass ensemble and children's choir from the Conservatory at Place de la République.
Creative Workshop (Place de la République): Kids can make decorations, cards, and crafts.
Cookie Factory (Hôtel de Ville Courtyard): Pastry apprentices (age 5+) can decorate Christmas shortbread cookies (20-minute sessions).
Santa's Visits
Santa will be in his chalet and walking the market aisles for meet-and-greets:
Friday, Dec 12: 4 PM – 8 PM
Saturday, Dec 13: 11 AM – 1 PM, 3 PM – 5 PM, and 6 PM – 9 PM
Sunday, Dec 14: 11 AM – 1 PM and 3 PM – 6 PM
The Solidarity Path
From December 12th to 14th on Rue de la Paroisse, local associations will sell creations and solidarity items. There will also be a charity gift-wrapping workshop.
Friday, Dec 12: 2 PM – 6 PM
Saturday & Sunday, Dec 13–14: 10 AM – 6 PM
Lantern Walk
On Saturday, December 13th, participate in a grand lantern walk (lanterns provided by the City).
5:30 PM: Lantern distribution at Place de Gaulle
6:00 PM: Departure from Place de Gaulle
6:30/6:45 PM: Brass band finale (Zygos Brass Band) at Place de la République, followed by hot beverages and treats.
Conservatory Concert
The Conservatory's "Maîtrise Voix" and the Paris Orchestra Children's Choir perform "Christmas from Around the World" on Wednesday, December 17th at 7:30 PM at the Théâtre de Fontainebleau.
Featuring: 130 young singers.
Admission: Free, but reservation required.
13th December
Marché de Noël de Chartrettes
Noël Festif at Veneux-Les Sablons
Veneux-Les Sablons is hosting a "Festive Christmas" event in the town center.
Location: Town center market and shops.
Time: 9:30 to 12:30
The event will feature games, gifts, a "Spin the Wheel" activity, and a chocolate distribution.
Le Bus de Noël passe par Fontainebleau !
A "Christmas Bus" is touring the area this year to collect toys for children supported by the Restos du Cœur charity, aiming to bring them some holiday cheer.
You are invited to drop off your new or excellent condition toys at any of the following stops:
When: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Where: Gare de Fontainebleau in Avon
Les Lutins de Noël at Écuelles
The ADSCE organization is hosting a "Christmas Elves" (Les Lutins de Noël) event in Écuelles.
Where: Place de l’Église Saint-Rémi (Saint-Rémi Church Square)
When: Starting at 17:00 p.m.
Schedule
- 17:00: Various activities/entertainment (Animations)
18:00: Children's show (Spectacle pour enfants)
14th December
Marché de Noël de Gironville
The Christmas market of Gironville will be at the Salle des Fetes from 10am to 6pm.
17th December
"Noëls du monde" concert
The Conservatory's "Maîtrise Voix" and the Paris Orchestra Children's Choir perform "Christmas from Around the World" on Wednesday, December 17th at 7:30 PM at the Théâtre de Fontainebleau.
Featuring: 130 young singers.
Admission: Free, but reservation required.
Marché de Noël at Moret-sur-Loing (19th - 22th)
Enjoy a four-day Christmas Market at the Place de l’Hôtel de Ville (Town Hall Square) in Moret-sur-Loing.
When:
- Friday: 16:00 to 21:00
- Saturday: 10:00 to 19:30
- Sunday: 10:00 to 19:30
- Monday: 10:00 to 19:30
Where: Place de l’Hôtel de Ville
The market features 20 stalls selling crafts, sweets, and decorations. There will be prizes to win and commercial activities, and Santa Claus will be handing out Reine Astrid chocolates.
During the Christmas Market (December 19-22) at the Place de l’Hôtel de Ville (Town Hall Square) in Moret-sur-Loing, several special events are scheduled:
Friday (19:00): Tartiflette Party (a traditional French dish event).
Saturday:
- Money Machine (Machine à billet - likely a cash grab or similar promotional game).
- Christmas Batucada (a type of Brazilian samba percussion group).
- Make-up Workshops (also available on December 21).
Sunday (14:00 to 18:00 p.m.): Luminous Frosty Parade ❄️ (Parade Givrée Lumineuse).
Sunday and Monday: Make-up Workshops.
20th December
Storytelling
The Fontainebleau Media Library hosts the Pataconte company with winter tales:
- "Contes d’hiver et de neige" (Winter and Snow Tales) at 10:30 AM
- "La Maison de laine" (The Wool House) at 4:30 PM
Age: Starting at 5 years old (reservation required).
The Christmas Village
The Place de la République turns into a playground from December 20th to 28th.
General Hours: 10 AM – 1 PM and 2 PM – 7 PM.
Exceptional Hours:
- Wednesday, Dec 24: 10 AM – 1 PM and 2 PM – 5:30 PM
- Thursday, Dec 25: 3 PM – 7 PM
Village Attractions:
- The Luge/Sledding Track: For family sliding (must be 1m20 or taller).
- The Little Christmas Train: A magical ride for the little ones.
- Catch the Lights: An interactive wall in the "elf workshop" to test reflexes.
- Santa's Return: Santa will be back in the Village from December 20th to 24th.
Spectacle de Noël (21st - 3rd)
The Duo Diapason is partnering with one of the world's last remaining "lanternists" (light projection artists) to present a unique visual Christmas show. The performance revives the magic of 19th-century luminous projections, featuring animated visual tales. Storytellers and actors will transport the audience through the enchanting story of Alice in Wonderland and other tales.
When: December 21st, 2025, to January 3rd, 2026.
Times: 11:00 AM, 2:00 PM (14h00), and 3:30 PM (15h30) daily.
Exceptions: The Château is closed on Tuesdays, December 25th, and January 1st (no shows on these days).
Duration: 50 minutes.
Where: Salle des Colonnes (Columns Room) at the Château de Fontainebleau. (Accessible via the Mariniers corridor from the Cour de la Fontaine. Accessible to people with reduced mobility.)
Tickets are available online.
21st December
Marché de Noël at Épisy
The Christmas Market in Épisy is a one-day event organized by the group Tous pour Épisy.
When: 10:00 to 19:00
Where: Salle Polyvalente Raymond Charles (Raymond Charles Multi-purpose Hall)
Marché de Noël at La Chapelle-la-Reine
Key Highlights:
- Numerous exhibitors will be present.
- Free carousel ride.
- Santa Claus will be handing out treats.
- Food available on site, crepe sale, hot chocolate, and mulled wine starting at 4:00 p.m.
- Hot chocolate, mulled wine, and roasted chestnuts served from 16:00.
- Fireworks display at 18:00.
- A gift basket can be won.
Concert "Messe de minuit pour Noël"
A Christmas concert featuring Marc-Antoine Charpentier's "Messe de minuit pour Noël" (Midnight Mass for Christmas) and traditional Christmas carols.
Time: 4:00 PM (16h00)
Where: Saint-Louis Church in Fontainebleau (Église Saint-Louis, Rue de la Paroisse).
Performers: The Évry University Student Choir and the Murmures Choir and Instrumental Ensemble.
Musical Direction: Julien Buis (with Éric Lebrun on organ for the old carols).
Admission: Free participation (donation-based/voluntary contribution).
Lutinou... Père Noël malgré lui (22nd - 24th)
The Les Arlequins Company presents a playful Christmas show titled "Lutinou... Père Noël malgré lui" (Lutinou... Santa Claus Despite Himself!).
The story follows Lutinou, an elf determined to take Santa's job, but his friend Lutinette plays a hilarious trick on him with help from the children. The grand finale features the arrival of the real Santa Claus, which promises to delight the whole family.
When: Monday, December 22nd, Tuesday, December 23rd, and Wednesday, December 24th, 2025.
Times: Two performances each day: 3:00 PM (15h00) and 5:00 PM (17h00).
Duration: 50 minutes.
Age: Suitable for ages 4 and up.
Where: Cinéma Ermitage in Fontainebleau (6 rue de France).
Tickets:
- €8 (for children up to 10 years old)
- €12 (General admission)
Tickets are available online.
26th December
Le Goûter des Enfants (Children's Snack Time)
Entertainment & Surprises
Live Music: An exciting Jazz Orchestra will be wandering through the city, setting a lively and festive mood for the afternoon.
Meet the Mascots: The friendly UCAIF Mascots will be on-site, ready to greet the children and hand out lots of fun surprises!
A Treat for the Little Gourmands
A wonderful FREE snack will be offered to all participating children, generously provided by the talented bakers and pastry chefs of the town. Come and enjoy these delicious treats!
When: 16h00
Where: Place Napoléon Bonaparte, Fontainebleau
