The Saint-Denis Christmas Market, known as Bel Hiver, returns to the foot of the Basilica of Saint-Denis from December 11, 2026 to January 3, 2027. About a hundred artisans and makers will populate the town center of this commune in Seine-Saint-Denis (93), just a few metro stops from Paris.
We've strolled through it in previous editions: the illuminated Gothic façade above the chalets creates a backdrop you won't find anywhere else in Île-de-France. This year, the festivities last longer and carry on throughout the school holidays.
The City of Saint-Denis is presenting this edition in two periods. The first runs from Friday, December 11 to Tuesday, December 22, 2026. The second picks up from Thursday, December 24, 2026 to Sunday, January 3, 2027.
It's a real change from last year, when the market shut down on December 21. In 2026, we'll be able to enjoy the chalets from Christmas to New Year—and even the first weekend of January.
During the first phase, the market will be open on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., and on weekdays from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. The hours for the second phase have not yet been announced by the City.
The market sprawls over nearly 10,000 m² around Victor-Hugo Square, the shared forecourt of the Town Hall and the Basilica. It also spills over onto Legion of Honour Street, Swan Street, Bakery Street, and Pierre-de-Montreuil Park.
Getting there is a breeze: Metro Line 13 serves the Basilique de Saint-Denis station, right nearby, and the T1 tram also runs through the town center. The market is free to enter.
The city is putting the spotlight on craftsmanship and short supply chains. Here you’ll find jewelry, textiles, ceramics, glass, screen printing, and fair trade — alongside producers eager to showcase their delectable specialties.
In previous editions, there were also demonstrations of craftsmanship: stone carving, engraving, gilding, restoration of paintings, mosaics, or pastry making. It’s as if the builders of the Basilica had reopened their workshops for the holiday season.
The market also benefits from its proximity to the Saint-Denis market, the largest market in Île-de-France, which draws nearly 120,000 visitors each week, according to the city.
Every year, Bel Hiver’s staging blends lights, carnival rides, an ice rink, an educational farm, and Santa’s Village. The city reiterates its commitment to this festive setup, but the detailed program for the 2026 edition has not yet been announced.
Want to lace up your skates somewhere else in the area? Our guide to the Seine-Saint-Denis ice rinks for Christmas 2026 catalogs the winter spots.
The market sits right at the foot of a major landmark. The Basilica of Saint-Denis, the necropolis of the Kings of France, is regarded as one of the birthplaces of Gothic art, driven by Abbot Suger in the twelfth century.
A visit to the royal tombs before a stroll among the chalets makes for a wonderful winter outing, blending history with hot mulled wine. It’s the kind of Christmas shopping trip that doubles as a mini history lesson—without the kids realizing it.
Bel Hiver will appeal to families with its lineup of activities, as well as to craft lovers seeking gifts with a story behind them. With its second phase, it also becomes a great option to keep kids entertained during the Christmas holidays, all without leaving the metro.
To round out your itinerary, check out our guide to the 2026 Christmas markets in Seine-Saint-Denis and our ideas for heritage outings and top spots in the 93.
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Dates and Opening Time
From December 11, 2026 to January 3, 2027
Location
Saint-Denis Basilica
1, Rue de la Légion d'Honneur
93200 Saint Denis
Route planner
Accessibility info
Prices
Free
Official website
ville-saint-denis.fr
