Amiens in Picardy will be hosting the largest Christmas market in the north of France From 22nd November to 29th December 2013.
The city of Amiens will be turned into a festive world of dreams as it is immersed in the imaginary world of Jules Verne who wrote many of his books here and you can visit the house where he lived for 18 years in the 19th Century.
130 chalets will be set up across Amiens city centre with sellers from France and elsewhere. The stalls will be brimming with gift ideas – arts and crafts, decorations and delicious delicacies – in an atmosphere fragrant with the typical sweet smells and flavours of Christmas.
Here you’ll find Santa in his grotto and loads for the kids to do from an ice rink to magic shows and a flight simulator of Jules Verne’s amazing imaginary and visionary world.
There is a Big Wheel and from its heated cabins above the city rooftops you’ll have the most glorious views and the wonderful illuminations.
Stilt walkers, Australian cowboys and a magical parade take place in the ancient streets on the weekends leading up to Christmas.
Not to be missed is the spectacular Amiens Cathedral in Colour, built from 1220 to 1288, it is one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in Europe. At nightfall the UNESCO world heritage classified Notre-Dame Cathedral is lit up in a magical display of medieval colour – a fabulous sight and pure Christmas…
Opening hours of the Christmas market: 22 November to 29 December 2013, Mondays from 2 p.m. to 7.30 pm; Tuesdays to Sundays from 10.30 am to 7.30 pm
Details and information, plus a map for car parking on the Amiens Tourist Office website: www.visit-amiens.com
