Vence Becomes a Wonderland: A Christmas of Lights, Art and Traditions on the French Riviera

From 6 December 2025 to 4 January 2026, Vence prepares to celebrate one of the most anticipated moments of the year with a new edition of Noël à Vence. The City of Arts turns into a magical village illuminated by lights, music, Provençal traditions and contemporary creativity. For an entire month, residents, traders and visitors come together in a festive atmosphere designed to unite the whole community.

The city lights up with magic

The historic streets glow with light installations and decorations created for the “La magie de Noël” competition, in which local shopkeepers showcase their creativity to make Vence even more enchanting.
In Place du Grand Jardin, the Christmas Village returns with artisans and local producers offering handcrafted creations, regional specialties and late-night shopping events.

The Enchanted Park, spread between Place Maréchal Juin and Place du Grand Jardin, offers rides, a mini train, trampolines, tree-climbing activities and musical parades animating the afternoons throughout the festive season.

A child-friendly Christmas

Children are at the heart of the celebrations: every Wednesday and Saturday they can enjoy shows, creative workshops, themed games and the “Boum des enfants”.
Among the most original activities are the Escape Game set in the old town and the spectacular Opening Parade on 6 December, featuring dance performances, the lighting of the Étoile du Baou and a grand finale in the Christmas market.

Culture at the core of the festivities

True to its artistic identity, Vence enriches the season with a wide cultural programme.
The Media Library hosts an exhibition dedicated to local heritage, while the Museum offers the child-friendly route L’art à ma hauteur !.
The celebration also includes guided tours of Provençal traditions, santon-making workshops, storytelling sessions, concerts in the Cathedral and events dedicated to children’s literature.

Highlights not to miss

The festive calendar includes many standout events:

• 12 December: Conservatory concert in the Cathedral of the Nativity.

• 14 December: Trail du Pays Vençois.

• 20 December: cultural afternoon at the Museum, visit from the Père Noël, fireworks viewed from the ramparts, with vin chaud and soupe à l’oignon for everyone.

• 23 December: acrobatic arrival of Santa Claus, vertical dance show, photo opportunities and light projections on the town hall, followed by a DJ set.

• 28 December to 4 January: La Grande Récré, a week of family activities including interactive games, small animals, circus workshops and themed shows.

• 3 January: Balèti de l’An Nou.

• 4 January: Epiphany celebration with shows, workshops and galette offered by the Festival Committee.

To make travelling easier, the city offers free parking on Saturdays 13 and 20 December.