Event Details
Welcome to the Annecy Christmas Market 2026
From 26 November 2026 to 3 January 2027, the historic heart of Annecy transforms once again into a magical Christmas village. Around 200 festively decorated chalets spread across the lakeside quays, the medieval lanes of the old town and the Jardins de l'Europe directly on the shores of Lac d'Annecy. Set between snow-capped Alpine peaks and the turquoise lake, this market offers one of the most breathtaking winter settings in France. Entry is free for all visitors.
Highlights
- Around 200 chalets offering crafts, gourmet specialities and local products
- Ice rink in the Jardins de l'Europe by the lake
- Meetings with Père Noël (Father Christmas) at Place de l'ancienne Grenette
- Free animations, concerts and shows for all ages
- Creative workshops for children at the Lutin Atelier
- Evening DJ sets in the festival zone
- Illuminated lakeside promenade from the lake quarter to the Jardins de l'Europe
- Solidarity Christmas chalet supporting local associations
Program & Opening Hours
The market operates at two locations with slightly different hours:
Historic town centre:
- Sunday to Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Friday and Saturday: 11:00 AM – 9:30 PM
Jardins de l'Europe:
- Sunday to Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Thursday to Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Special hours:
- 24 and 31 December: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM (town centre) / 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Jardins de l'Europe)
- 25 December and 1 January: 11:00 AM – 9:30 PM (town centre) / 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Jardins de l'Europe)
Tickets & Entry
The Annecy Christmas Market is free to enter with no booking required. All animations and performances on the market grounds are also free of charge. Specific activities such as the ice rink may carry a small fee. The market is organised by 2A Organisation.
Getting There
- By train: Annecy station is less than 15 minutes on foot from the market; TER regional trains connect Geneva, Lyon and Grenoble directly to Annecy.
- By bus: Stops Rives du Thiou and Hôtel de Ville Annecy are closest to the market; check timetables at sibra.fr.
- By bike or e-scooter: Cycle paths and secure parking areas are available around the market.
- By car: Public car parks are available nearby; arrive early on weekends as they fill up quickly.
Visitor Tips
- Weekends and school holidays are the busiest periods; weekday visits offer a more relaxed atmosphere.
- Dress warmly and wear sturdy footwear; Alpine December temperatures can drop below freezing.
- The market is fully accessible with main aisles adapted for wheelchair users.
- Pets are welcome but must be kept on a lead at all times.
- Accommodation in Annecy books out quickly in December; reserve well in advance.
- Visit after dark when the illuminations are at their most magical.
