Christmas Market in Sélestat – Cradle of the Christmas Tree

My Thoughts on the Sélestat Christmas Market

Dates for the 2026 Sélestat Christmas Market

The Sélestat Christmas Market will be held from Friday, November 20, through Sunday, December 27, 2026.

Sélestat Christmas Market Hours

If the hours remain the same as for the 2025 edition (not yet officially confirmed for 2026): the market is open Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. and on Fridays and Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. On December 24 until 4 p.m., and on December 26 starting at 2 p.m. Closed on December 25.

Where is the Sélestat Christmas market held? The three squares in the city center

In addition to the “Christmas tree-themed” activities, I enjoyed the Sélestat Christmas market for its high-quality booths set up in three must-see squares in the city center:

• Place d’Armes
• Dr. Maurice Kubler Square
• Place de la Victoire.

I also really like the St. Barbara’s complex, which hosts many local artisans that you can often even see working live. There are also exhibitions and contests with different themes every year.

The birthplace of the Christmas tree tradition

The fir tree holds a very important place here, as it was in Sélestat that the first written mention of the Christmas tree was found, dating back to 1521. Yes, just that!

An entry in an account book of the town of Sélestat mentions that the municipal forest rangers had to be paid four shillings to watch over the “maïs” (festive trees) three days before Christmas.

It is, to date, the oldest known handwritten reference to this part of the Christmas tree tradition in the world.

🌟 Local tip: If you want to learn more about this topic, the short downloadable guide on the history of the Christmas tree, available on the city’s website, is really worth reading.

With this tradition in mind, the city has decided to offer a very original Christmas market to visitors, immersing them in the world of the Christmas tree. And we don’t lack imagination in Sélestat, you can believe me!

I recommend visiting the exhibition at Saint-Georges Church, which tells the story of the Christmas tree from the 16th century to the present day. For the 2026 edition, it will be on view from November 21, 2026, through January 3, 2027.

Christmas ball chandelier from Meisenthal

Be sure to stop by the Sainte-Foy Church to see the enormous chandelier on display there during the holiday season. A chandelier made of 173 glass Christmas ornaments from Meisenthal (a very famous artisanal glassworks located in Lorraine, right on the border with northern Alsace) awaits you there.

Of course, this one is shaped like a Christmas tree! It’s truly magical. You can also buy Christmas ornaments from Meisenthal at a booth.

As of this writing, the dates for the 2026 edition have not yet been officially confirmed, but this exhibition is traditionally held from late November to early January.

What else is there to see in Sélestat during Advent?

Be sure to check out the schedule of Christmas festivities at the Bibliothèque Humaniste—which is hosting an exhibition from November 21 to December 31, 2026, on the tradition of the Christmas tree dating back to 1521—and at the Maison du Pain d’Alsace.

Families can also go on a Christmas treasure hunt through the streets of the historic district, and craft enthusiasts will enjoy meeting local artisans (jewelry, ceramics, embroidery) as part of the “Little World of Christmas.” There are plenty of activities planned during Advent—and throughout the entire month of December—in Sélestat!

What You Need to Know About the Sélestat Christmas Market

• A truly unique Christmas market, entirely centered on the tradition of the Christmas tree
• A much more peaceful atmosphere than the large neighboring markets, ideal for a visit without the crowds
• There aren’t many chalets per se: plan to visit them as a supplement to a more extensive market rather than as your sole shopping destination

Want to explore more Christmas gems in Alsace? Check out my guide to the 20 most beautiful Christmas markets in Alsace to plan the rest of your holiday itinerary.

FAQ: Your Questions About the Sélestat Christmas Market