Rechercher un lieu, une activité...
Père Noël devant la basilique d'Avioth

A different kind of Christmas in the Meuse: a magical stop-off

How about taking a break in the Meuse region before diving into the magic of the major Christmas markets? Situated between Paris and Metz, in the heart of Lorraine, this destination invites you to enjoy Advent at your own pace. Christmas markets, St Nicholas traditions, festive lights, local crafts and family outings are all on the agenda for this winter break. A wonderful opportunity to get together and simply experience the magic of Christmas.

Sapins de Noel devant la basilique d'Avioth
Marché de Noel d'Avioth

Christmas markets with an intimate charm

In the Meuse, the magic of the festive season is experienced in a friendly atmosphere. Here, the Christmas markets take place in settings full of character, combining remarkable heritage with a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

In Avioth, Christmas at the foot of the basilica

In Avioth, at the foot of the majestic Notre-Dame Basilica, the village is decked out in its festive finery. On 12 and 13 December 2026, its Christmas Village will bring together over 70 stallholders showcasing crafts, local specialities, traditional skills and gift ideas. Concerts, entertainment, parades and shows round off this family outing in a stunning setting. As night falls, the illuminations enhance the basilica and envelop the village in a particularly magical atmosphere.

A medieval Christmas in Hattonchâtel

Step back in time at Hattonchâtel Castle! On 12 and 13 December 2026, this castle, perched on its rocky outcrop, will host its medieval Christmas market. Throughout the castle’s various spaces, craftspeople and designers will showcase their skills and gift ideas. Jugglers, performers, street performers and fire shows also bring the imagination of the Middle Ages to life. As night falls, Christmas lights and the performers’ flames mingle with the ancient stones. A spectacular setting for experiencing Christmas with a difference in the Meuse.

Train de Noel la Suzanne

From Bar-le-Duc to Commercy, the towns come alive

As Christmas approaches, the towns of Meuse take on a new look. Illuminations, decorations and festive events invite you to stroll around and soak up the festive atmosphere.

Bar-le-Duc aglow with Christmas lights

In Bar-le-Duc, the Renaissance heritage provides the backdrop for the festive season. As night falls, historic façades and streets are revealed under the Christmas lights. Once the capital of the Duchy of Bar, the town invites you to look up and admire its architecture whilst soaking up the festive atmosphere.

A Christmas journey aboard La Suzanne

Near Bar-le-Duc, Christmas is also celebrated on the rails! Take the whole family aboard La Suzanne, a historic locomotive, for a journey into the heart of the Meuse forest. The train follows the old ‘Voie Sacrée’ line, adding a touch of heritage to this Christmas adventure. At the end of the journey, the children will meet a much-anticipated guest: Father Christmas. A unique experience blending history, scenery and magic, to be shared with the family over the festive season.

In Commercy, Christmas takes to the open air

Head to Commercy, where the festive atmosphere has taken hold around the castle. Set against this elegant heritage backdrop, the ice rink invites you to lace up your skates and share a joyful moment with family or friends. From 5 to 12 December, the Saint Nicholas market creates a festive atmosphere in the heart of the town. After a few laps on the ice, take the time to stroll around and treat yourself to a tasty snack.

Noel à verdun décorations
Noel a Verdun

In Verdun, Christmas: a blend of light and emotion

In Verdun, Christmas is celebrated amidst both the festive buzz and the sentiment of days gone by.

The Verdun Christmas Village

The Verdun Christmas Village and its illuminations bathe the town in a warm, festive atmosphere. You can stroll amongst the chalets, catch up with friends and family, and simply enjoy the pleasure of being together. It’s impossible to imagine Christmas without a Christmas tree! Verdun’s giant Christmas tree is a key part of the festive décor. A must-see on any stroll to soak up the town’s atmosphere and capture the moment with your family.
But in Verdun, the Christmas season also takes on a special significance.

Christmas in the footsteps of brotherhood

Between Verdun and Chattancourt, the Chattancourt Trench offers a glimpse into a deeply human chapter of the Great War. At Christmas 1914, across several sectors of the front, French and German soldiers momentarily laid down their arms. Songs and gestures of brotherhood then suspended, for a few hours, the violence of the fighting.

As Christmas approaches, historical re-enactments bring these episodes of fraternisation to life in the heart of the Chattancourt Trench. In this setting steeped in history, they offer a deeper understanding of these timeless moments and convey the memory of the Great War in a different way. A powerful experience to share as a family, centred on a universal message of peace and brotherhood.

Christmas in the Meuse: a gourmet experience

Assiette de truffes

The festive season is also a chance to discover the flavours of the Meuse. Among the region’s finest local produce, the Meuse truffle adds its delicate notes to festive tables.

In Bar-le-Duc, another iconic speciality takes centre stage: Bar-le-Duc caviar. Behind this name lies a redcurrant jam made from fruit that has been carefully deseeded using a goose quill. This meticulous craft has been passed down through the generations.

Two specialities that add a delicious Meuse flavour to your Christmas getaway.

A cosy retreat to make your getaway last a little longer

After a day out and about in the Meuse region, taking in Christmas markets, festive lights, local traditions and culinary delights, what a pleasure it is to return to a cosy place to stay!

From Vigneulles to Hattonchâtel, from Contrisson to Montmédy, via Mogneville, Herberie and Lérouville, guesthouses and holiday cottages allow you to extend this peaceful break. We settle in comfortably, share memories of the day and savour the pleasure of being together.

    Choosing the Meuse for Christmas means taking the time to stroll through a market, meet Saint Nicholas, admire the festive lights, travel on a historic train or savour some local specialities.

    It also means discovering a destination in the Grand Est region where Christmas tells stories of tradition, craftsmanship and camaraderie. A cosy break to share as a couple, with friends or with family.

    What if the magic carried on?

    Extend your Christmas getaway in Lorraine and discover other ways to celebrate Christmas in Moselle, the Vosges and Meurthe-et-Moselle, amidst traditions, lights and a magical atmosphere.

    Christmas in the Grand Est region