As snow begins to fall and the scent of roasted chestnuts fills the air, Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne is preparing for its traditional Christmas market. This year's edition promises to be exceptional, inviting visitors to stroll through 60 stands of local artisans in the heart of the historic center, amidst the mountains.
The magical atmosphere will be enhanced by carols and strolling characters. A major new feature for 2026 is the opening of Santa's House, an enchanted world where children can drop off their letters, which will be displayed in the outer courtyard of the Episcopal Palace from November 20 to December 17. A lollipop tree will also be available for the youngest. The house will be open during market hours and every afternoon from 2 PM to 4:30 PM until December 24.
Santa Claus himself will welcome visitors on Saturday, December 5, and Sunday, December 6, from 10 AM to 12 PM and 2 PM to 7 PM. He will also be present on Wednesdays, December 9 and 16, and from December 21 to 24.
Festivities will kick off on Friday, December 4, at 6:30 PM with Santa's arrival, followed at 6:45 PM by the lighting ceremony and a luminous parade titled « Mille et une lumières » (A Thousand and One Lights).
Other events include: on Saturday, December 5, at 10:30 AM, the show « The Night Before Christmas » by the Compagnie de l’Alouette at the Médiathèque Louise de Savoie (reservations at 04 79 05 20 20). On Saturday, December 12, a « Make a Christmas Reindeer » workshop will be held at the same library at 2 PM and 3 PM.
On Wednesday, December 16, at 4 PM, a screening of the animated film « The Great Christmas of the Animals » is scheduled. Additionally, local businesses are participating in a 'most beautiful window display' contest, with votes open from December 1, 2026, to January 5, 2027, and voting slips available at the Tourist Office.
