This charming town in Seine-et-Marne offers illuminations and a Christmas market with a musical show.

Looking for a family outing to get into the holiday spirit? Head to La Ferté-sous-Jouarre in Seine-et-Marne. This charming town offers a lovely festive program throughout December 2025, with its traditional Christmas market, children's shows, and the highly anticipated launch of the Christmas lights. It's the perfect way to spend quality time with your family without having to go all the way to Paris.

When is the Christmas market in La Ferté-sous-Jouarre?

The highlight of the event is undoubtedly the Christmas market at the Pâtis de Condé, which will be heldfrom December 5 to 7, 2025, for its 11th edition. Organized by the Comité des Fêtes Fertois, this market brings together around fifty exhibitors, artisans, producers, and local creators. You'll find original gift ideas and delicacies to prepare for the holidays.

All weekend: Around fifty exhibitors (artisans, producers, and designers), ice rink, carousel, donkey rides, visit from Santa Claus, and magical face painting by Les Angélines (Saturday and Sunday).

• Friday, December 5 • 4pm-9pm: Market opening with inauguration at 7:45pm after the town's illuminations.
• Saturday, December 6 • 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.: Entertainment starting at 11 a.m. with the Musical Show Company andits mascots.
• Sunday, December 7 • 10 a.m.-6 p.m.: Last day of the market in a festive atmosphere.

How can you attend the Christmas lights switch-on?

On Friday, December 5, starting at 6:15 p.m., head to the Place de l'Hôtel de Ville for a magical moment. The large Christmas tree will be lit up in the presence of residents and children, accompanied bymusic, singing, and acrobatic performances. This enchanting moment officially marks the beginning of the festivities.

Where to post your letter to Santa Claus?

From December 1 to 23, children can drop their letters in Santa's mailbox on Place de l'Hôtel de Ville, near the large illuminated Christmas tree. Elves collect the letters every evening and pass them on to Santa Claus, who takes pleasure in replying to each one personally. To receive a magical reply, be sure to include the sender's first name, last name, and postal address.

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What Christmas shows are on offer in La Ferté-sous-Jouarre?

The Samuel Beckett Media Library and other cultural venues are offering several events:

• Christmas story: Silent Night - Wednesday, December 3 at 10:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. at the Samuel Beckett Media Library
• Story time: Christmas with the animals - Wednesday, December 10, from 4:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Samuel Beckett Media Library
• Christmas at the Square - Saturday, December 20, starting at 2:30 p.m. at the Pôle des Solidarités (15 Avenue de Montmirail). Workshops and performances based on circus arts with the Royal Boui Boui company.
• Object theater: Tell Me About a Shoe - Monday, December 22, at 3:30 p.m. at Royal Boui Boui

What do the shops have to offer for Christmas?

Local retailers are also getting into the festive spirit. On Friday, December 19, at the Boulevard Turenne market, the Commerce Department is organizing some fun activities: a Christmas raffle with gift baskets to be won for every purchase made at participating stores, chocolate papillotes (small chocolate-filled pastries) and a Hameaux Fertois chalet where you can warm up with mulled wine and hot drinks.

On December 20 and 21, Les Cultivores Fertois will take over the Place de l'Hôtel de Ville for a local farmers' market accompanied by music and entertainment. It's an opportunity to discover local products and support local businesses in a warm atmosphere. Open Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

In short, La Ferté-sous-Jouarre is pulling out all the stops to celebrate Christmas in style. Head there with your family to enjoy the festive atmosphere in a town on a human scale, far from the hustle and bustle of Paris.