Metz Christmas market 2026: new attractions and programme

Metz Christmas market 2026: new highlights

The Metz Christmas market 2026 brings new experiences to the city centre from 20 November to 30 December. The city of Metz presented the programme on 2 November. Highlights include the dancing winter fountains, a new ice path and the craft market at Place des Charrons. Place Saint-Jacques is also getting a new look. This makes another visit worthwhile even if you already know Metz from previous years.

Metz Christmas market 2026 across five squares

According to the city, around 140 chalets are spread across five central squares. The market combines traditional gift stalls with food and drink and family activities. At Place de la République, you can find the 81-metre-high City Skyliner. You can also enjoy the Ferris wheel at Place d’Armes. The new ice path adds to the winter attractions at Place de la République. You can combine the different areas on a walk through the old town.

Metz Christmas market 2026: opening and crafts

The official opening is scheduled for Saturday, 21 November, from 14:30 at Place des Charrons. From 20 November to 13 December, a separate Christmas market for craftspeople will be held there for the first time. It is open on Fridays and Saturdays from 11 to 22, and on Sundays from 11 to 21. The square is therefore especially interesting if you are looking for handmade gifts. A farmers' market is also scheduled for 19 December from 10 to 17.

Santa Claus and more experiences

Santa Claus is also part of the programme. On the opening Saturday, he is expected to make his way through Metz between 14:30 and 18:30. Further appearances will follow on selected Wednesdays and Sundays at various market sites. Other attractions include the floating Christmas sleigh on the boat Le Messin and the immersive Céleste light show at Temple Neuf. Some of these attractions have their own dates and may charge an admission fee. Check the relevant organisers' information before your visit.

Road closures and getting there

There is a practical travel discount: the city has announced free bus rides and park-and-ride services on the LE MET’ network on Saturdays and Sundays from 21 November to 20 December. However, the press release does not specify individual car park entrances or exact road closure sections. You should therefore check the transport network's latest travel information before setting off. On particularly busy weekends, travelling by public transport may be more comfortable.

More information about the Christmas market

You can find all the key dates, opening times and market areas in our event listing for the Metz Christmas market 2026. The city's full announcement also includes further programme details. As some attractions have their own opening times, it is worth checking the official press release from the city of Metz before your visit. This will help you plan a route that suits your interests.

Source: Press release from the city of Metz dated 02.11.2026 (original announcement).