Each year-end, the city of Annecy transforms into a true open-air festive village for the occasion of the Christmas of the Alps. This 2025 edition promises to be particularly rich: from November 22, 2025, to January 10, 2026, squares, quays, streets, and gardens will be enlivened by Christmas markets, activities, an ice rink, and illuminations.
The event is aimed both at families and lovers of old streets, wandering among artisan chalets, Savoyard specialties, and the magic of winter.
A bit of history
The Christmas market in Annecy, often called “Christmas of the Alps,” has gradually established itself as one of the must-attend year-end events in Haute-Savoie. For several editions, it has offered an “Alps Village” with chalets, local gastronomy, an ice rink, and a light show.
For 2025, the municipality announces an expansion and new features: 135 artisan chalets on the quays and streets of the city center, as well as 15 chalets in the Jardins de l’Europe accompanied by a 450 m² ice rink. This upgrade reflects a desire to boost the tourist appeal of the lake and the old town during the winter season.
Practical information
Dates & times
- From November 22, 2025, to January 10, 2026 for the main market.
- Illuminations inauguration: Friday, November 28 at 5:30 PM at Place Notre-Dame.
- Market inauguration/start of the stroll: Saturday, November 29 at 5 PM from the Lac district.
Key locations
- Vicenza quay area, Place Saint-Maurice, Place de l’Ancienne Grenette, Collège-Chappuisien, Joseph-Blanc streets, Napoléon-III quay.
- Jardins de l’Europe: festive zone, ice rink, chalets.
Access & transport
To avoid traffic jams and parking difficulties, it is strongly recommended to use public transport, park in peripheral car parks, or arrive by train via Annecy station.
Many visitors prefer to arrive early in the morning or during the week to enjoy a quieter atmosphere.
Family & children tips
- The ice rink in the Jardins de l’Europe (approx. 450 m²) is perfect for a family outing.
- The illuminations and end-of-day shows charm children (and adults): a magical time for a gentle break.
- Bring warm clothing: the lake air in winter can be sharp, even in the urban environment.
2025 entertainment program
Here is an overview of the main highlights expected:
- Illuminations & magical stroll: On November 28 and 29, official launch with music, lanterns, and activities in the old town.
- Artisan market: 135 artisan and creator chalets (design, jewelry, alpine tradition) spread throughout the city center.
- Gourmet & lakeside area: Along the Lac district, find Savoyard specialties (fondue, tartiflette, diots), mulled wine, winter treats.
- Ice rink & leisure atmosphere: Clay on ice in the heart of the gardens, relaxation zones for families.
- Cultural & festive activities: Stories, choirs, creative workshops, musical walks, children’s readings.
Summary table of activities – Christmas of the Alps 2025
| Date | Activity | Place / Information |
|---|---|---|
| Saturday, November 22 | Opening of the Saint-André funfair | Place des Romains – from 2 PM |
| Friday, November 28 | Official inauguration of the Christmas illuminations | Place Notre-Dame – 5:30 PM |
| Saturday, November 29 | Opening ceremony of the Christmas Market + Magical stroll | Start at Lac district → Jardins de l’Europe – 6 PM |
| Sat Nov 29 → Jan 10 | Nativity scenes from around the world exhibition | Saint-François-de-Sales Memorial Hall |
| Tuesday, December 2 | Launch of the Advent calendar stories | Bonlieu Media Library – 5 PM |
| Wednesday, December 3 | Advent calendar stories | Bonlieu Media Library – 5 PM |
| Saturday, December 6 | “International Christmas at Bonlieu” | Bonlieu Cultural Center |
| Thursday, December 11 | Opening of the Christmas in Canada village | Nouvelles Galeries Annecy |
| Saturday, December 13 | Medieval festival in Pringy | Pringy |
| Saturday, December 13 | Christmas magic in Albigny | Albigny |
| Wednesday, December 17 | Meeting with Santa Claus | Place de l’Ancienne Grenette – 2 PM to 7 PM |
| Saturday, December 20 | “Sey’Noël” in Seynod | Seynod |
| Wednesday, December 24 | Special activities + Advent calendar sessions | Bonlieu Media Library / Jardins de l’Europe |
| Thursday, December 25 | Market open with reduced hours | City center |
| Wednesday, December 31 | Christmas market – specific year-end hours | 11 AM–6 PM |
| Thursday, January 1 | Festive opening of the New Year | City center |
| Until Sunday, January 10 | Last days of the market, ice rink, and activities |
Why visit?
- Unique setting: Annecy’s old town, its canals, old facades, and its lake provide a magical backdrop for the holidays.
- Chalet + city atmosphere: An “Alpine” style Christmas market but in the city center, perfect for an urban + nature getaway.
- For all profiles: Families, couples, groups of friends: everyone finds pleasure here (shopping, treats, skating, strolling).
- Optimal timing: Enjoy the magic of Christmas without going to the big ski resorts, accessible and friendly.
Tips & good deals
- Opt for a visit early in the morning or midweek to avoid the heavy weekend crowds and enjoy tranquility.
- For parking, choose a park-and-ride or an urban bus to access the city center and walk to the chalets.
-Bring warm clothing, gloves, hat: even if the atmosphere is festive, temperatures can drop. - For a unique souvenir, favor chalets with “local crafts” and ask about the product origins.
- In the evening, head to the lakefront or the old town to enjoy the illuminations and festive atmosphere after sunset.
A must-see moment of Christmas festivities in Annecy
Christmas of the Alps 2025 in Annecy promises to be a must-see moment for lovers of winter, the mountains, and urban magic. Between wooden chalets, Savoyard gastronomy, an ice rink, illuminations, and varied activities, the old “Venice of the Alps” transforms into a haven of winter sweetness.
Whether you come with family, as a couple, or with friends, don’t hesitate to book a time slot early in the season to experience this unique atmosphere, mixing Savoyard tradition with the spirit of Christmas.
