Christmas in Paris: Marché de Noël

One of the things I most wanted to experience when planning to spend Christmas in Paris in 2016 was the Marché de Noël – Christmas Market – on the Champs-Élysées. Imagine, hundreds of metres at the foot of that grand avenue lined with little chalets offering all sorts of wonderful Christmas treats. And the majestic Arc de Triomphe overlooking it all! I had read all about it and couldn’t wait to experience a true, European, Marché de Noël. That year, the market ran from Place de la Concorde to the Champs-Élysées roundabout, overtaking the boulevards on both sides of the avenue.

Savoury Snacks

Above all else, the market is a food fest. Chalet after brightly decorated chalet of freshly made regional French cuisine specialties spread out like a banquet before me and I couldn’t resist! Bretzels – pretzels, – roasted chestnuts, and kettle chips were just a few of the seasonal delights that tempted me. And it wouldn’t be a Marché de Noël without a glass or two of vin chaud – mulled wine – to keep you warm.

Sweet Treats

And then there were the sweet chalets! These were filled with mountains of chocolats and pâtisseries to delight even the most resolute of Scrooges. Guimauves – marshmallows – and truffes – truffles – were a couple of the treats that I sampled. And I also discovered a pâtisserie that was new to me: canelé. Baked in small, striated copper tins, this French pastry is flavoured with rum and vanilla. These wonderful delicacies have been described as ‘crème brulée in your hand’. And after just one taste, I had to agree. For their soft, custard centre is wrapped in a thick, caramelized crust. They were so delicious that I vowed to try baking them at home.

Artisan Delights

Le Marché de Noël also offers an array of non-edible treats. Here you can find local artisans crafting their wares on site, providing an abundance of unique decorating and gift ideas for the holiday season. This lampworker and his delicate, glass menagerie captured my attention. His intricate chandelier would likely have come home with me if I had thought it would survive the trip intact. Instead, I chose two sturdier hand-painted beauties from other craftspeople.

Whimsical Surprises

And to my surprise, amidst the trees and antique drinking fountains of the greatest avenue in the world, I discovered an ice rink! The bright orange rental skates added an even more festive flair as the skaters glided under silver bells and the watchful eye of Père Noël.I also found several other historic Parisian icons amongst le marché. This antique food truck stood in front of several haute couture fashion houses. And then there was one of Paris’ iconic Art Nouveau Metro signs. And amidst all the hustle and bustle of le Marché de Noël, a gentle reminder of the reason for the season. This beautifully carved, wooden crèche stood, quietly awaiting the arrival of the holy infant.

I feel very fortunate to have chosen that year to spend Christmas in Paris. For the city has not hosted this grand Marché de Noël on the Champs-Élysées since. This year it is in le Jardin Tuileries which would definitely bring its own charm to the event. I suppose I will just have to return another year to experience it there.

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