Breadcrumb

Christmas at Night

The City in a Different Light

Exploring the city at night means discovering its treasures from a whole new perspective: strolling along the canals, enjoying illuminated boat rides, admiring the light installations and monumental decorations, or even attending the night watchman’s rounds or a performance at the opera. The market alleys, more intimate at dusk, are adorned with twinkling garlands and dancing shadows, offering a complete sensory experience where sounds, scents, and lights combine to delight young and old alike.

Every corner of Strasbourg thus becomes a magical setting, where the lights transform the city into a truly enchanted world, perfect for moments of wonder, romantic strolls, or quality time with family. Nighttime in Strasbourg offers a different kind of Christmas—poetic and luminous—where the magic unfolds with every step and memories are made amid the festive lights and magic.

  • In Strasbourg, the dining scene reflects its residents: it’s generous! From traditional winstubs to 100% plant-based restaurants, not to mention international cuisines and reimagined specialties, there’s something for every palate! Don’t hesitate to step inside and discover our Alsatian specialties.

    Themed dinner at the winstubs

    Immerse yourself in the traditional atmosphere of the taverns in downtown Strasbourg. On the menu: sauerkraut, tarte flambée, and baeckeoffe—hearty, convivial dishes sure to warm your heart, all paired with a bottle of fine Alsatian wine!

    Learn more
  • An evening walking tour exploring the history and heritage of Strasbourg and Alsatian Christmas traditions, led by Jean-François Kovar and Bruno Dantès.

    December 4 and 11, at 8:30 p.m., departing from Place du Château in front of the Musée de l’Œuvre Notre-Dame

    And join the “Strasbourg, City of Lights” walking tour to discover Strasbourg’s heritage and history, beautifully highlighted by the illuminations along the Ill River, led by Jean-François Kovar.

    December 22 at 6:00 p.m. , departing from the plaza in front of Sainte-Madeleine
    Church. Price: €5 / free for children under 16

    The Night Watchman's Round

    After dark, set out to discover the history of Strasbourg and the Christmas traditions of Alsace

    Learn more
  • When night falls, Strasbourg reveals a whole new side. Follow the lights along the quays and let the starry decorations guide you along the riverbanks. Whether you’re in the mood for a short stroll or a longer walk, plan your route however you like and take the time to admire the city’s reflections on the water.

    Before you set off, stop by the Terrasse Rohan: it’s the perfect opportunity to discover a selection of wines from local vineyards and enjoy a cozy moment. Then, continue your stroll through the illuminated streets, taking in the historic sites, winter atmosphere, and Christmas magic.

    A Stroll Full of Light and Flavor

    Find your perfect itinerary to explore the city as the lights come on. Head to the riverfront once night falls and admire the starry decorations along the riverbanks. Before setting out on your nighttime adventure, stop by the Terrasse Rohan to sample some fine wines from local vineyards.

    Learn more
  • Standing 30 meters tall, the iconic Grand Sapin delights visitors this year with four striking symbols: the candle, the Alsatian cottage, the dove, and the heart made of kelsch. Its design and decorations are part of an eco-friendly approach that emphasizes the reuse of materials, job creation, and local craftsmanship. Place Kléber, daily from November 27 to January 5: light and music show every hour between 4:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m., and light show only between 10:00 p.m. and midnight.

    Grand Sapin

    At Place Kléber, the Grand Sapin lights up Strasbourg and celebrates Alsatian symbols, in a way that is both environmentally responsible and community-minded

    Learn more
  • Embark on a scenic cruise along the water and discover Strasbourg in a whole new light. As night falls, the lights of the “Christmas Capital” reflect off the canals and cast a golden glow on the building facades. To the rhythm of soft music, let yourself be carried through the historic center and admire the city all lit up from the river. A peaceful and enchanting interlude to savor all the magic of Strasbourg in winter.

    Cruises on the Ill River

    Hop aboard a Batorama boat for a cruise that takes you on a journey through the traditions and stories of an Alsatian Christmas.

    Learn more
  • Upcoming Events:

    • Hymn to Life symphonic concert, December 3, at 8 p.m.
    • Film concert Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets™, December 12, at 8 p.m.
    • Symphonic concert Ivresse de la danse—December 16 and 17 at 8 p.m.
    • New Year’s Symphony Concert Classiques en fête—December 31 at 8:00 p.m. and January 1 at 5:00 p.m.

    A Musical Christmas at the OPS

    The Strasbourg Philharmonic Orchestra (OPS) invites you to experience exceptional musical moments, including major symphonic works, film concerts, and festive events.

    Learn more
  • A cocktail reception with a show, or just the show, in a warm and cozy setting until 11:30 p.m.
    December 4–20

    The Christmas Cabaret Show

    The zany Strasbourg cabaret is back with a brand-new, humorous, and festive show combining skits, magic, songs, and outlandish acts.

    Learn more
  • Under the artistic direction of Jérémie Bellot, this immersive video-mapping show combines light and lasers in a 360° sensory experience
    .

    Celestial, the Pillars of Heaven

    At the Temple Neuf, Céleste transforms the architecture into a luminous and poetic work of art.

    Learn more
  • An evening walking tour exploring the history and heritage of Strasbourg and Alsatian Christmas traditions, led by Jean-François Kovar and Bruno Dantès.

    December 4 and 11, at 8:30 p.m., departing from Place du Château in front of the Musée de l’Œuvre Notre-Dame

    And join the “Strasbourg, City of Lights” walking tour to discover Strasbourg’s heritage and history, beautifully highlighted by the illuminations along the Ill River, led by Jean-François Kovar.

    December 22 at 6:00 p.m. , departing from the plaza in front of Sainte-Madeleine
    Church. Price: €5 / free for children under 16

    The Night Watchman's Round

    After dark, set out to discover the history of Strasbourg and the Christmas traditions of Alsace

    Learn more