Every year, as December begins, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence transforms. From the windows of our agency, we watch the lights being installed, the shopfronts glowing and the atmosphere shifting little by little. Here, Christmas is never just a date on the calendar. It is a true moment of togetherness when the whole town comes alive. Those who discover Saint-Rémy in winter are often surprised by this gentle, lively energy so typical of the Alpilles.

The Christmas Markets of Saint-Rémy, an authentic tradition

The Christmas market set in the heart of the historic center is one of the moments we look forward to the most each year. The cobbled streets, already full of charm, take on a magical glow. Wooden chalets, carefully decorated, attract families and curious visitors alike. You’ll find everything from hand-crafted santons and Alpilles honey to artisan jewelry and Provençal fabrics with warm, inviting colors.

What makes it truly special is the closeness with the artisans. We talk, we taste, we exchange. You can feel the heart and passion behind every creation. And between two stalls, it’s not unusual to come across a musical troupe or a Provençal choir that adds a touch of childhood nostalgia to your walk.

Local flavors that warm winter evenings

In December, Saint-Rémy-de-Provence hosts the Petit Marché du Gros Souper de Noël. On this Provençal market, indulgence is everywhere. Freshly pressed olive oil, homemade tapenades, warm fougasses, Alpilles honey, calissons and almond biscuits transform the stroll into a true culinary journey. These little things, these authentic flavors, are what make you leave with a basket fuller than planned.

It’s also the perfect opportunity to prepare festive meals, such as the famous 13 desserts traditionally served on Christmas Eve, or to create gourmet gift baskets for loved ones while supporting Provençal tradition and local producers.

These products also reflect what we love to share at Agence des Alpilles: the importance of terroir, tradition and quality. Living here means embracing this Provençal generosity.

The Festival of Lights, when the village shines bright

Every year, the Festival of Lights remains one of our favorite moments. Shopkeepers embrace the festive spirit with enthusiasm. Decorated windows, illuminated façades, doors open wide to welcome visitors late into the evening. You can feel the entire town vibrating in unison.

The town center, charming in any season, becomes a true fairy-tale setting. Here, a hot chocolate offered. There, a sweet treat or a cup of homemade mulled wine. Encounters feel warm and effortless, and strolling through these glowing streets becomes a moment of pure pleasure.

A spectacular display of lights

Just a few steps into the first streets are enough to understand how seriously Saint-Rémy takes Christmas. Garlands hanging between stone houses create an intimate and poetic atmosphere. Decorated Christmas trees brighten the squares, and each shop competes in imagination to embellish its façade.

Many visitors tell us, as they pass by the agency, that these decorations make them want to live here, even in winter. It’s true that this season reveals another side of the village, softer and irresistibly charming.

A spirit of sharing at the heart of provençal traditions

In the Alpilles, Christmas is deeply rooted in tradition. Evening gatherings, live nativity scenes, pastorales, workshops where recipes and crafts are shared. All of this strengthens the bond between residents and celebrates customs passed down through generations. In Saint-Rémy, these traditions are not frozen in time. They are lived, shared and carried on.

This authenticity can be felt at every corner throughout December. It’s probably why those discovering the village at this time of year often leave deeply touched. And for us who live and work here, it is always a pleasure to watch Saint-Rémy shine in this unique light.