The Christmas market in Geneva is back, and this year will see the Jardin Anglais transformed into an enchanting winter wonderland. In addition, the famous Fête de l’Escalade returns for the first time since the pandemic, allowing visitors to celebrate the 1602 victory against invading French forces with colourful processions and age-old traditions.
With the festive season fast approaching, embrace the Christmas spirit and head to Europe’s leading city break destination to enjoy a fairytale Swiss Christmas in Geneva.
Discover the magical Christmas market
From 17 November to 23 December, Geneva’s beautiful Jardin Anglais will transform into the magical Noel au Jardin market. Set against the stunning backdrop of Lake Geneva, the market is framed by the iconic Jet d’Eau and the snow-capped Alps, creating a winter wonderland that will be sure to get you in the festive spirit.
Bringing together the very best local artisans, restaurateurs and designers, this enchanting market will be sure to delight and surprise visitors at every turn. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the rows of wooden chalets, where you will find a range of exciting gifts and trinkets from local artisans, perfect for treating your loved ones with this Christmas.
For those seeking a respite from the cold, indulge in a classic Swiss fondue at the cosy Chalet à Fondue, which has a fantastic selection of local wines to accompany the traditional warming winter delicacy. If you are a football fan, don’t worry about missing out on the first winter World Cup action. Instead, settle in at the Christmas Pub and come together with supporters from all over the world to watch the games on several screens while enjoying a tasty tipple or two in its cosy interior.
Noel au Jardin also offers a fantastic range of activities for the little ones, making it the perfect option for a festive family break. Whether it’s heading to the cosy children’s yurt to get stuck into storytelling and face painting or taking a ride on the old-fashioned carousel, there really is something for everyone! For a truly magical family experience, step aboard the magnificent Ferris Wheel and enjoy unbeatable views of the city.
Join the colourful parade at the Fête de l’Escalade
Not to be missed is Geneva’s famous Fête de l’Escalade, the annual action-filled festival returning this year from 09 to 11 December for the first time since the pandemic.
This historical event celebrates the victory against invading French forces in 1602 with colourful processions, period costumes, musket firings and age-old traditions, including the smashing of a chocolate ‘cauldron’ filled with marzipan treats (marmite en Chocolat)- this is certainly one not to be missed!
For those looking to explore outside of the city centre
Head to Carouge, which is only 10 minutes by tram from the city centre but feels worlds away with its Mediterranean architecture and quaint Italian restaurants. This Bohemian district comes alive in the winter with sculptures, light projections, ice skating, and horse-drawn carriage rides. Carouge has something for everyone: get ahead on Christmas shopping in charming boutiques or visit Santa’s Letterbox with the little ones.
And for the chocolate lover…
What’s Christmas without everyone’s favourite sweet treat? This year, Geneva Tourism has created the perfect festive experience for chocolate lovers with its special Christmas Choco Pass package.
Geneva is renowned for its chocolate-making history, and this indulgent special offer gives guests a complimentary Choco Pass per person with every weekend hotel booking made through Geneva Tourism, valid on visits before 02 January 2023.
The ultimate experience for chocoholics this festive season, the Choco Pass will give you a chance to explore seven of Geneva’s most famous chocolatiers within a 24-hour period whilst also providing the perfect opportunity to pick up some tasty sweet treats for your loved ones back at home.
For more information, please visit the Geneva Tourism website.
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