Christmas Events for Kids in Marseille (2026)

Christmas Events for Kids
Written by Kelsey Cecil

13 min read · Lire en français

For 2026, we confirmed 24 Christmas events for kids in Marseille. The season opens on November 14 with 224th Santons and Nativity Scenes Fair of Marseille (Foire aux santons et aux crèches de Marseille) and runs until January 3 with J4 Ice Rink and Sledding Run (Patinoire et piste de luge du J4). Of these, 4 are free. Every listing links straight to the host. This page is part of our guide to Christmas events for kids in France.

The short version

  • Kids’ Christmas events confirmed for 2026 in Marseille: 24
  • First: 224th Santons and Nativity Scenes Fair of Marseille (Foire aux santons et aux crèches de Marseille), Marseille, November 14
  • Free events: 224th Santons and Nativity Scenes Fair of Marseille (Foire aux santons et aux crèches de Marseille), Christmas Market of the Old Port Huts (Marché de Noël des cabanons du Vieux-Port), Noyaux villageois en fête, Noël dans votre quartier: Belle de Mai (Village Hubs Celebrate, Christmas in Your Neighborhood) and Village des enfants (Children's Village)

Below is every event we could confirm, grouped by town, with the date, time, cost and the small things parents ask about (registration, ages, what is included).

At a glance: Christmas events for kids in Marseille

Kids’ Christmas events
24 confirmed for 2026
Towns
Marseille
Season
November 14 to January 3
Free events
4
Last checked

Free 4Ticketed and paid 20

Free Christmas events for kids in Marseille

Christmas craftsFree

224th Santons and Nativity Scenes Fair of Marseille (Foire aux santons et aux crèches de Marseille)

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Since 1803, the santons fair has opened the Christmas season in Marseille. About twenty stands of santon makers present nativity figures, complete nativity scenes (crèches) and Provençal crafts, on the Quai du Port, beside the Old Port (Vieux-Port). Admission is free and the fair stays open throughout the holiday season.

For children, the tourist office lists a santon-making workshop every weekend, donkey rides every day, cooking workshops on Sunday mornings and Provençal folk groups on Wednesdays and weekends. The opening ceremony takes place on Sunday, November 15, with a Mass in Provençal at 10:30 am.

Parent tip: Metro line 1 (Vieux-Port) and tram T2 drop you a few minutes away. Exact workshop times are not published, so ask on site.

Host
Union des Fabricants de Santons de Provence (opens in a new tab)
Where
Quai du Port, Vieux-Port, 13001 Marseille (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Union des Fabricants de Santons de Provence (opens in a new tab)

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Rally’s Christmas research

Rally the corgi has 23 more Marseille events researched for you.

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Coming up on this page

  • 17 Shows
  • 7 Crafts
  • 4 Lights
  • 3 Santa
  • 4 Free

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Christmas marketFree

Christmas Market of the Old Port Huts (Marché de Noël des cabanons du Vieux-Port)

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The Christmas market sets up on the Quai de la Fraternité, on the Old Port, from November 28 to January 3. Access is free and the huts are open every day from 10:30 am to 8 pm, until 9 pm on Fridays and Saturdays.

Activities are planned from 1 pm to 5 pm on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays, and every day during school vacations. The tourist office says the full program of activities had not yet been published in early November.

Parent tip: The content of the activities is not yet detailed: check the city's program before coming with children.

Host
Office de Tourisme de Marseille (opens in a new tab)
Where
Quai de la Fraternité, Vieux-Port, 13001 Marseille (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Office de Tourisme de Marseille (opens in a new tab)

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Visit with SantaFree

Noyaux villageois en fête, Noël dans votre quartier: Belle de Mai (Village Hubs Celebrate, Christmas in Your Neighborhood)

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The Noyaux villageois en fête bring Christmas to Marseille's neighborhoods. This Sunday, the party is held in Belle de Mai at Place Cadenat, from 1 pm to 5 pm, with free activities close to home: Christmas decoration workshops, festive face painting, a magic show, a decoration-making workshop, a photo booth with Santa, food stands, balloon giveaways, all set to music.

This is a neighborhood event, so more intimate than the big downtown happenings, and easy to reach on foot or by public transport for local families. No registration is announced. The Tourist Office said the full program of Christmas events in Marseille was coming soon; times and the exact content for each neighborhood may therefore be adjusted, and it is advisable to check again a few days before.

Parent tip: Check the program again a few days before: the neighborhood details were announced as still to come.

Host
Office de Tourisme de Marseille (opens in a new tab)
Where
Place Cadenat, 13003 Marseille (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Office de Tourisme de Marseille (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas craftsFree

Village des enfants (Children's Village)

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The Village des enfants (Children's Village) sets up in downtown Marseille for one day, 10 am to 7 pm, at Place Castellane and the Opera forecourt (parvis de l'Opéra). On the program: face painting, Christmas decoration workshops, giant wooden games, a bubble show and balloon artists, all with music and roaming performers.

Access appears to be free, with no reservation, and you can come whenever you like during the day. The workshops let children go home with a decoration made by their own hands, and the wooden games suit several ages. The full Christmas program for Marseille is still to come: check again the day before. Downtown is very busy on these days; the metro and the tram are the easiest ways to get there with children.

Parent tip: The city's full program was announced as still to come: check again the day before. Take the metro or tram.

Host
Office de Tourisme de Marseille (opens in a new tab)
Where
Place Castellane et parvis de l'Opéra, 13006 Marseille (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Office de Tourisme de Marseille (opens in a new tab)

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Ticketed and paid Christmas events for kids in Marseille

Admission, tickets or a fee apply. Where a host has not posted a price yet, the listing says so.

The #1 spot Event hosts: free events are listed first. One featured spot puts your event at the very top of this page.Ask about the #1 spot

Christmas lights

Christmas Lights Launch and Nexus Aerial Ballet (Lancement des illuminations de Noël et ballet aérien Nexus)

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On Saturday, November 28, 2026, Marseille launches its Christmas lights on the Quai de la Fraternité, at the Old Port. The same day, the Zenit company presents Nexus, an aerial ballet with acrobats, in front of the City Hall (Hôtel de Ville).

The tourist office has not yet given the time. In the evening, the decorated Old Port is especially pleasant to see as a family.

Parent tip: Bring warm clothes and arrive early to see the show well, since the time is not yet published.

Host
Office de Tourisme de Marseille (opens in a new tab)
Where
Quai de la Fraternité et Hôtel de Ville, 13002 Marseille (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Office de Tourisme de Marseille (opens in a new tab)

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Rally looks for new Christmas events in Marseille every day and adds them to this page. Enter your email for one weekly update with the latest finds.

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Christmas show

Casse-noisette (The Nutcracker), British Festival Ballet

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The British Festival Ballet presents Casse-noisette (The Nutcracker) at the Silo, to music by Tchaikovsky and choreography by Marius Petipa, based on the tale by Hoffmann. On the eve of Christmas, young Marie receives a nutcracker from her uncle, then her toys come to life and take her on an adventure.

There are two performances on Sunday, November 29, at 1:30 pm and 5:30 pm. Tickets cost €45 to €65, with a €35 rate for children under 16 in categories 1 and 2.

Parent tip: The 1:30 pm show suits the youngest children best. Book ahead: tickets are sold online.

Host
Office de Tourisme de Marseille (opens in a new tab)
Where
Le Cepac Silo, 35 quai du Lazaret, 13002 Marseille (opens in maps)
Registration
Recommended
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Office de Tourisme de Marseille (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas show

Christmases of the World (Les Noëls du monde)

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Christmas is almost here. Naïa climbs into her grandfather's attic to look for decorations and finds a magnificent book about Christmases around the world. She starts to read it, falls asleep, and sets off on a journey through different countries, meeting colorful characters who give her a message, a gift or a philosophy.

This 50-minute musical show, by C. Dabusco, aims to be both funny and tender. It is for ages 4 and up in this small theater in the 5th arrondissement, which is wheelchair accessible. Everyone age 2 and up needs a ticket, and booking is recommended because capacity is limited. The Divadlo describes itself as the little theater of the 5th, devoted to shows for children all year round.

Parent tip: Everyone age 2 and up needs a ticket; booking recommended, limited seats. Expect the show to be in French.

Host
Divadlo Théâtre (opens in a new tab)
Where
Divadlo Théâtre, 69 rue Sainte-Cécile, 13005 Marseille (opens in maps)
Registration
Recommended
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Divadlo Théâtre (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas show

La petite fabrique du Père Noël (Santa's Little Factory)

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In Santa's village there is a secret, mysterious place where small surprises are made for children, and above all a great deal of love: the Petite Fabrique du Père Noël (Santa's Little Factory). The Christmas Fairy, the elves and a few surprise guests offer toddlers a gentle moment there.

Performed by Caroline Dabusco, this 30-minute show blends music, songs and puppets. It is for children age 1 and up and plays on Thursday mornings at 10 am. For the very youngest audience members, everyone age 6 months and up needs a ticket, at the single price of €8. The Divadlo describes itself as one of the pioneering theaters for very young audiences in Marseille. Booking is advised, online or at 04 91 25 94 34, because seats are limited.

Parent tip: A ticket is needed from 6 months; the morning show suits daycare groups and childminders as well as families. Expect it to be in French.

Host
Divadlo Théâtre (opens in a new tab)
Where
Divadlo Théâtre, 69 rue Sainte-Cécile, 13005 Marseille (opens in maps)
Registration
Recommended
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Divadlo Théâtre (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas show

Le Noël de Nawàham (Nawàham's Christmas)

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Alone on her drifting patch of ice floe, Nawàham fills her days with a well-oiled routine, but time is starting to drag. One day she fishes a big chest full of treasures out of the icy water: garlands, a tree and Christmas ornaments. She redecorates her little white island and invents a friend who gradually comes to life.

This Christmas tale by the company Pieds Nus dans les Orties is for children from 6 months to 6 years. Friday is reserved first for childminders and daycare centers; on Saturday, two shows welcome families. The show lasts 30 minutes. Tickets cost €8, or €6 for people receiving RSA and AAH benefits. The theater is at 105 avenue des Chartreux in the 4th arrondissement; book online or at 04 91 50 18 90.

Parent tip: For families, aim for Saturday, Dec 5 at 10:15 am or 4 pm; book online. Expect it to be in French.

Host
Théâtre des Chartreux (opens in a new tab)
Where
Théâtre des Chartreux, 105 avenue des Chartreux, 13004 Marseille (opens in maps)
Registration
Recommended
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Théâtre des Chartreux (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas show

Noël pour un loup (Christmas for a Wolf)

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In a forgotten cabin deep in the mountains, a family of wolves has found shelter. In the distance the town lights up: it is Christmas for the humans. The wolf sets off on a wild adventure, hitchhiking, riding buses, through a city that spins like a carousel, until presents appear in the snow.

This new production by the Badaboum company, written and directed by Magali Fremin Du Sartel, leaves everyone free to believe in the magic of Christmas or not. The set unfolds like a giant book. The show is for ages 3 and up and is staged on the Old Port (Vieux-Port). Tickets cost €9 at the regular rate, €7 reduced and €5 for members. Book by phone at 04 91 54 40 71, with payment on the day, or online by bank card.

Parent tip: Limited capacity: booking is strongly recommended by phone at 04 91 54 40 71 or online. No bank cards at the box office. Expect it to be in French.

Host
Badaboum Théâtre (opens in a new tab)
Where
Badaboum Théâtre, 16 quai de Rive-Neuve, 13007 Marseille (opens in maps)
Registration
Recommended
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Badaboum Théâtre (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas crafts

Atelier décos de Noël (Christmas Decorations Workshop)

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The La Grognarde library, in Marseille's 11th arrondissement, offers a workshop for making Christmas decorations. The invitation is clear: come with your little hands to create decorations to take home or hang on the tree.

The workshop is for children age 4 and up and lasts an hour and a half, on a Wednesday afternoon. It is part of the Christmas program of the Marseille libraries. Registration is required and opens November 17, and places are probably limited. The library calendars do not detail the materials used; they are usually supplied by the team at this kind of workshop, but it is wise to ask when you register. It makes a good short, indoor outing before the holidays.

Parent tip: Registration from November 17. Dress in clothes that can get messy. Expect it to be in French.

Host
Bibliothèques de Marseille (opens in a new tab)
Where
Bibliothèque de La Grognarde, 2 square Berthier, 13011 Marseille (opens in maps)
Registration
Required
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Bibliothèques de Marseille (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas lights

J4 Ice Rink and Sledding Run (Patinoire et piste de luge du J4)

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From December 12 to January 3, the Gisèle Halimi esplanade, at the J4 across from the Mucem, hosts a Christmas ice rink and a sledding run. Food trucks are on hand for a snack or lunch.

Hours and prices have not yet been published by the tourist office. The site is about a fifteen-minute walk from the Old Port.

Parent tip: Check hours and prices before you come; they were not yet on the page.

Host
Office de Tourisme de Marseille (opens in a new tab)
Where
J4, esplanade Gisèle Halimi, 13002 Marseille (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Office de Tourisme de Marseille (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas crafts

Atelier Noël (Christmas Workshop)

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At the Saint-André library, in Marseille's 16th arrondissement, a Christmas workshop brings young and old together to make pretty decorations and let their imagination run. The invitation is for everyone, with no minimum age announced.

The calendar lists a wide time window, 10 am to 5:30 pm, which suggests you can drop in at some point during the day rather than arrive at a set time; the library can confirm. The workshop takes place on a Wednesday, a day off school. It is part of the Christmas events at the Marseille libraries. It is a simple, friendly outing, ideal for making something together to decorate the house before the holidays, in the Saint-André neighborhood.

Parent tip: Ask the library how drop-in works during the time window. Expect it to be in French.

Host
Bibliothèques de Marseille (opens in a new tab)
Where
Bibliothèque Saint-André, 6 boulevard Salducci, 13016 Marseille (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Bibliothèques de Marseille (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas show

Ciné carnavalo de Noël (Christmas Costume Movie Afternoon)

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The idea behind Ciné Carnavalo is simple: children watch a cartoon screening while dressed up, here with a Christmas theme. The session takes place at the La Grognarde library, in the 11th arrondissement, and lasts about an hour and a half.

The event is for children age 6 and up. It is part of the Christmas program of the Marseille libraries. Registration is required and opens November 17, so you can reserve a spot for a Wednesday afternoon close to the holidays, without leaving your neighborhood. The title of the film has not been announced yet: ask the library. A Christmas costume, even a very simple one, is part of the fun.

Parent tip: Registration from November 17 through the library. Remember the Christmas costume.

Host
Bibliothèques de Marseille (opens in a new tab)
Where
Bibliothèque de La Grognarde, 2 square Berthier, 13011 Marseille (opens in maps)
Registration
Required
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Bibliothèques de Marseille (opens in a new tab)

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Rally looks for new Christmas events in Marseille every day and adds them to this page. Enter your email for one weekly update with the latest finds.

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Christmas show

Symbolio et l'esprit de Noël (Symbolio and the Spirit of Christmas)

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Symbolio et l'esprit de Noël is a puppet show presented at the Merlan library, in Marseille's 14th arrondissement. It lasts about an hour and carries adults and children into a Christmas daydream full of colors and sounds.

The show is part of the Christmas events at the Marseille libraries. For the recommended age and for reservations, it is best to call the library before coming, especially with young children. The event takes place on a Wednesday afternoon, which suits families well. It is a simple, warm way to enjoy the holiday mood in a familiar place, with no ticket office and no long trip, and a moment of sharing between young and old.

Parent tip: Ask the library about the recommended age and reservations. Expect it to be in French.

Host
Bibliothèques de Marseille (opens in a new tab)
Where
Bibliothèque du Merlan, Centre urbain du Merlan, 13014 Marseille (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Bibliothèques de Marseille (opens in a new tab)

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Rally looks for new Christmas events in Marseille every day and adds them to this page. Enter your email for one weekly update with the latest finds.

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Christmas show

Lulu s'en va au pays de Noël (Lulu Goes to Christmas Land)

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Lulu the giraffe has always lived in the savanna, where it is far too hot. She dreams of celebrating Christmas one day. Thanks to her long neck, she spots a white mountain in the distance and sets off on an adventure to meet someone who might share the secret of Christmas with her.

This 30-minute show by Casanova productions combines shadow puppets, puppets and songs. It is designed for toddlers from 6 months. There is only one show, on Thursday, December 17 at 10 am, and every audience member age 6 months and up needs a ticket. The single price for very young audiences is €8 for adults and children alike, or €6 with the subscription card. Booking is advised online or at 04 91 25 94 34, since the room is small.

Parent tip: Only one show, so book ahead; a ticket is required from 6 months. Expect it to be in French.

Host
Divadlo Théâtre (opens in a new tab)
Where
Divadlo Théâtre, 69 rue Sainte-Cécile, 13005 Marseille (opens in maps)
Registration
Recommended
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Divadlo Théâtre (opens in a new tab)

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Rally looks for new Christmas events in Marseille every day and adds them to this page. Enter your email for one weekly update with the latest finds.

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Christmas show

Casse Noisette, ballet et orchestre (The Nutcracker, Ballet and Orchestra)

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Le Dôme hosts a Franceconcert production of Casse Noisette (The Nutcracker), a two-act Christmas ballet to the music of Tchaikovsky, performed by the Paris Ballet Theater with orchestra. It follows Clara and her nutcracker on a magical adventure.

The performance takes place on Friday, December 18, 2026 at 8 pm, with tickets from €43.

Parent tip: The show is in the evening on a Friday: plan the trip home for the youngest children.

Host
Office de Tourisme de Marseille (opens in a new tab)
Where
Le Dôme, 48 avenue de Saint-Just, 13004 Marseille (opens in maps)
Registration
Recommended
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Office de Tourisme de Marseille (opens in a new tab)

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Rally looks for new Christmas events in Marseille every day and adds them to this page. Enter your email for one weekly update with the latest finds.

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Christmas lights

Drone Show and Fireworks on the Old Port (Spectacle de drones et feu d'artifice sur le Vieux-Port)

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The City of Marseille announces a drone show and fireworks around the Old Port for Saturday, December 19, 2026. The tourist office says details are to come.

The same day, the children's village is held on the Opera forecourt and at the bottom of the Canebière, which makes it possible to combine a day of activities with an evening at the port.

Parent tip: The time is not yet published. The show is in the evening, outdoors: dress the children warmly.

Host
Office de Tourisme de Marseille (opens in a new tab)
Where
Vieux-Port, Quai du Port, 13001 Marseille (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Office de Tourisme de Marseille (opens in a new tab)

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Visit with Santa

La Véritable histoire du Père Noël (The True Story of Santa)

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Every year, the Fairy Queen summons the King of the Elves to choose the most mischievous elf of the year. This time, the twins Bric and Broc are chosen, and they are sent to the village to do a good deed.

Performed by the company Coline, this story is told with string puppets, a delicate art that often fascinates children. The show lasts 50 minutes and is for children ages 3 and up. It plays on one day only, Monday, Dec 21, with three sessions to choose from, at the Divadlo Théâtre in the 5th arrondissement. The single young-audience rate is €9 for adults and children alike, and a subscription card lowers the price. Booking is recommended, online or at 04 91 25 94 34.

Parent tip: One day of performances only, three sessions: book early. Expect the show to be in French.

Host
Divadlo Théâtre (opens in a new tab)
Where
Divadlo Théâtre, 69 rue Sainte-Cécile, 13005 Marseille (opens in maps)
Registration
Recommended
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Divadlo Théâtre (opens in a new tab)

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Rally looks for new Christmas events in Marseille every day and adds them to this page. Enter your email for one weekly update with the latest finds.

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Christmas show

Casse-Noisette (The Nutcracker)

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For Christmas, young Clara receives a gift she was not expecting: a nutcracker. It is the start of a whirlwind of surprises that turn her night into a fairy-tale dream, full of adventures and magical encounters.

The Divadlo company presents its own stage adaptation of the tale, directed by Audrey Descarrega. It runs 40 minutes and is open to children from age 2, which makes it a first introduction to this classic Christmas story. There are two afternoon shows on December 22 and 23, and everyone age 2 and up needs a ticket. The single price is €9 for adults and children alike. The theater, at 69 rue Sainte-Cécile, is wheelchair accessible, and you can book online or by phone at 04 91 25 94 34.

Parent tip: A 40-minute show suited to ages 2 and up; every person age 2 and up needs a ticket. Expect it to be in French.

Host
Divadlo Théâtre (opens in a new tab)
Where
Divadlo Théâtre, 69 rue Sainte-Cécile, 13005 Marseille (opens in maps)
Registration
Recommended
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Divadlo Théâtre (opens in a new tab)

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Rally looks for new Christmas events in Marseille every day and adds them to this page. Enter your email for one weekly update with the latest finds.

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Christmas show

Le voyage magique de Noël (The Magical Christmas Journey)

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At the Divadlo Théâtre, a specialist in shows for very young audiences in Marseille, Lulu the elf guides children through a bustling Christmas village. When the gift room turns out to be empty, Lulu and the children set off to find a solution.

The show gets the little ones involved and slips in a few winks for the adults. Shows are on Tuesday, December 22 and Wednesday, December 23 at 10 am and 11:15 am. Full price is €8, reduced price €6.

Parent tip: The page does not give an age: the theater targets toddlers. Confirm the times with the theater. Expect it to be in French.

Host
Divadlo Théâtre (opens in a new tab)
Where
Divadlo Théâtre, 69 rue Sainte-Cécile, 13005 Marseille (opens in maps)
Registration
Recommended
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Divadlo Théâtre (opens in a new tab)

New events in Marseille every week

Rally looks for new Christmas events in Marseille every day and adds them to this page. Enter your email for one weekly update with the latest finds.

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Visit with Santa

Noël à la fête foraine (Christmas at the Funfair)

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Ninon is waiting her turn to have her photo taken with Santa. To pass the time, she shows us around the funfair stalls. Suddenly the claw machine goes haywire, the candy disappears, the carousel horse goes off to stretch its hooves and the Ferris wheel loses its lights.

Children are invited to help Ninon bring the magic of Christmas back in this interactive, poetic 30-minute show, created by Les Petits Z'Artistes and the Fabulouse company. It suits ages 6 months and up, with two morning shows on December 22 and 23. The single price is €8 for everyone, or €6 with the subscription card. The venue, at 69 rue Sainte-Cécile in the 5th arrondissement, is wheelchair accessible; book at 04 91 25 94 34 or online.

Parent tip: Two morning shows, at 10 am and 11:15 am; a ticket is needed from 6 months. Expect it to be in French.

Host
Divadlo Théâtre (opens in a new tab)
Where
Divadlo Théâtre, 69 rue Sainte-Cécile, 13005 Marseille (opens in maps)
Registration
Recommended
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Divadlo Théâtre (opens in a new tab)

New events in Marseille every week

Rally looks for new Christmas events in Marseille every day and adds them to this page. Enter your email for one weekly update with the latest finds.

Free. Unsubscribe at any time. Privacy policy (opens in a new tab)

Christmas crafts

Family Workshop: Fabrique ton tampon de Noël (Make Your Own Christmas Stamp)

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The Musée d'Histoire de Marseille, at Centre Bourse, offers a family workshop called “Fabrique ton tampon de Noël” (Make Your Own Christmas Stamp) on Wednesday, December 23, 2026. The tourist office's calendar lists it among the activities designed especially for children.

The page gives neither the time nor the price, and notes that the times are still to be confirmed. The venue is wheelchair accessible, with assistance.

Parent tip: Contact the museum before coming to confirm the time, price and booking. Expect it to be in French.

Host
Musée d'Histoire de Marseille (opens in a new tab)
Where
Musée d'Histoire de Marseille, 2 rue Henri Barbusse, Centre Bourse, 13001 Marseille (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Musée d'Histoire de Marseille (opens in a new tab)

New events in Marseille every week

Rally looks for new Christmas events in Marseille every day and adds them to this page. Enter your email for one weekly update with the latest finds.

Free. Unsubscribe at any time. Privacy policy (opens in a new tab)

Christmas show

L'Atelier du Père Noël (Santa's Workshop)

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Between Christmas and New Year's, the company Les Crapules sets up L'Atelier du Père Noël (Santa's Workshop) at the Divadlo. Nadine and her mischievous, magical puppets are back, in a show that mixes magic tricks, songs and ventriloquism.

The show lasts 50 minutes and is for children age 3 and up. It is a handy outing for the second week of the holidays, with one show each afternoon from Monday, December 28 to Wednesday, December 30. The theater is wheelchair accessible and booking is advised, because entry is not guaranteed without a reserved ticket. The single price is €9 for everyone, with a subscription rate of €7. Reservations are made online or by phone at 04 91 25 94 34, and groups book only by phone or email.

Parent tip: Shows at 2:30 pm during New Year's week; booking advised. Expect it to be in French.

Host
Divadlo Théâtre (opens in a new tab)
Where
Divadlo Théâtre, 69 rue Sainte-Cécile, 13005 Marseille (opens in maps)
Registration
Recommended
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Divadlo Théâtre (opens in a new tab)

New events in Marseille every week

Rally looks for new Christmas events in Marseille every day and adds them to this page. Enter your email for one weekly update with the latest finds.

Free. Unsubscribe at any time. Privacy policy (opens in a new tab)

More Christmas events for kids in France

A story for the trip home

Our picture book follows Rally the corgi on his first train ride to see his grand-paw-rents. It is a cozy story to share on the way home after a big day out.

Rally Takes the Train book cover: a watercolour corgi peeking from a red train

A bedtime story after seeing SantaRally Takes the Train is a five-minute rhyming picture book about a corgi’s first train ride, hand-painted in real watercolor. Ages 0 to 8.

Buy on Amazon.fr (opens in a new tab)

Christmas events for kids in Marseille: questions parents ask

What are the 2026 Christmas events for kids in Marseille?

For 2026, we confirmed 24 Christmas events for kids in Marseille, each on its host’s own page: Noyaux villageois en fête, Noël dans votre quartier: Belle de Mai (Village Hubs Celebrate, Christmas in Your Neighborhood), Village des enfants (Children's Village), La petite fabrique du Père Noël (Santa's Little Factory) and 21 more. Each one is listed above with times, cost and a link to the host.

Are there free Christmas events for kids in Marseille?

Yes, 4 of the 24 events here are free: Noyaux villageois en fête, Noël dans votre quartier: Belle de Mai (Village Hubs Celebrate, Christmas in Your Neighborhood), Village des enfants (Children's Village), 224th Santons and Nativity Scenes Fair of Marseille (Foire aux santons et aux crèches de Marseille) and 1 more. Some free events still ask you to register, so check each listing.

Where can kids see Santa this year in Marseille?

Where to see Santa: Noyaux villageois en fête, Noël dans votre quartier: Belle de Mai (Village Hubs Celebrate, Christmas in Your Neighborhood), Noël à la fête foraine (Christmas at the Funfair) and La Véritable histoire du Père Noël (The True Story of Santa). Check the listings above for times and booking.

Where are there Christmas story times for kids in Marseille?

Christmas story times on this page: Le Noël de Nawàham (Nawàham's Christmas) and Christmases of the World (Les Noëls du monde).

How do you confirm these events?

We list an event only after we find this season’s date on the host’s own website or an official city, library or tourism calendar. We last checked every listing on November 9, 2026. Hosts change details, so always confirm on the host’s page before you go.

Event names belong to their hosts. Rally Takes the Train is a family picture book and is not affiliated with, sponsored by or endorsed by any host listed here. Confirm dates, times and prices on each host’s own site before you go.

The story of Christmas in Marseille

Marseille has had its own Christmas fair since 1803. Every season, about twenty craftspeople set up stalls on the Old Port to sell santons, the little clay figures that fill Provençal nativity scenes. The clay santon itself was invented here, by a Marseille sculptor who used his neighbors as models.

How Marseille celebrates Christmas

In Marseille, Christmas begins with a fair. The first santon fair took place in 1803 on the Cours Saint-Louis, and it is now the oldest santon fair in France. It later moved through the Allées de Meilhan and Place Général-de-Gaulle before settling on the Old Port (the Vieux-Port).

For a visiting family, the harbor is the heart of the season. In 2026 the santon fair, the Christmas cabin market and the lights launch all sit around the Old Port, so you can see a lot on foot in one outing.

Santons and nativity scenes, explained

A santon is a small hand-painted figure made for a Christmas nativity scene. In Provence the scene is a whole village: not only the holy family but also bakers, shepherds and neighbors. Marseille sculptor Jean-Louis Lagnel, born in the city on February 8, 1764, made molds of his neighbors and their trades, and the clay santon was born. Before him, local figures were made of plaster or wood, and merchants from Naples sold plaster figures called santibelli in the streets near the Old Port.

In a Marseille nativity scene, the first figure to be placed is traditionally the Ravi, a happy, wide-eyed villager who stands for joy and innocence. The baby only arrives on December 24 at midnight, and the three kings on January 6. Santon makers at the fair even sculpt famous faces, such as Marcel Pagnol, Fernandel or Lino Ventura.

Planning a Christmas visit to Marseille with kids

This page lists the confirmed family events and a few of them are free. The santon fair opens on Saturday, November 14, 2026 and runs to January 3, 2027, with free entry, santon workshops and donkey rides. The Christmas cabin market on the Old Port runs from November 28, 2026 to January 3, 2027, also free. The ice rink and luge track at the J4, across from the Mucem, runs from December 12, 2026 to January 3, 2027, with prices not yet published.

Beyond the harbor, expect a lot of theater. Divadlo Théâtre alone has puppet shows, a Nutcracker adaptation and music shows for toddlers and babies, mostly priced at 8 or 9 euros, and there are two full Nutcracker ballets for older kids. Libraries host craft workshops on Wednesdays.

Most events are in French, so check with the host if you need English.

A fair with a long memory

The 223rd santon fair opened on November 15, 2025, and the 2026 edition is the 224th. In 2025 the city switched on its Christmas lights on Saturday, November 29, Father Christmas arrived by horse-drawn carriage on Place Castellane on December 17, and a fireworks and drone show circled the Old Port on December 20. Lagnel's first clay santons looked like his neighbors. He even made a woman carrying a pumpkin on her head.

Traditions today

  • The santon fair on the Old Port: About twenty santon makers sell figures from mid-November to early January, with santon-making workshops on weekends and donkey rides.
  • The nativity scene and its clay santons: Families start with the Ravi, add the baby on December 24 at midnight and the three kings on January 6.
  • The Christmas market at the foot of La Canebière: In 2025 it had 50 exhibitors, food specialties and charity stands, from November 22 to January 4.
  • The children's village: Face painting, decoration workshops and a Father Christmas cabin on the Bargemon esplanade in 2025, plus giant wooden games on Place Castellane on pedestrian Saturdays.
  • The Christmas lights and the Old Port show: The city switches on its lights in late November, and in 2025 a fireworks and drone show circled the Old Port in December.

A fact for kids

The first clay santons in Marseille looked like the neighbors of their inventor, Jean-Louis Lagnel. He even made a woman who carries a pumpkin on her head.

Questions about Christmas in Marseille

Is Marseille worth visiting at Christmas with kids?

Yes, especially if your kids like crafts, puppets and little figures. The santon fair on the Old Port is free and has workshops and donkey rides, and the city has many theater shows for babies, toddlers and older children. This page lists the confirmed events, a few of them free.

When does the santon fair in Marseille open in 2026?

The 224th santon fair opens on Saturday, November 14, 2026 and runs until January 3, 2027, on the Quai du Port on the Old Port. Entry is free. It is open from 10 am to 7 pm, and until 8 pm on Fridays and Saturdays.

What is a santon?

A santon is a small figure made for a Christmas nativity scene in Provence. Marseille is where the clay santon was invented, by sculptor Jean-Louis Lagnel. Before him, local figures were usually plaster or wood.

Who was Jean-Louis Lagnel?

He was a sculptor born in Marseille on February 8, 1764. He made molds of his neighbors and their trades, which led to the clay santon. Fun for kids: he even made a woman with a pumpkin on her head.

What can kids do at the santon fair in Marseille?

Kids can make their own santon at a workshop offered each weekend and go on donkey rides. The fair also has cooking workshops on Sunday mornings and folk groups on Wednesdays and weekends. Entry is free.

How is a nativity scene set up in Marseille?

Traditionally the first figure to go in is the Ravi, a happy villager who stands for joy and innocence. The baby is placed on December 24 at midnight, and the three kings arrive on January 6. The scene grows into a whole village around the stable.

Who is the Ravi?

The Ravi is a santon of a happy villager, a symbol of joy and innocence. In Marseille he is traditionally the very first figure placed in the nativity scene.

What are santibelli?

They were plaster figures for nativity scenes, brought from Italy. Merchants from Naples sold them in the streets near the Old Port before clay santons took over.

How can I explain santons to my kids?

Tell them a Marseille sculptor made tiny clay people who looked like his neighbors and their jobs. A nativity scene then becomes a whole village. At the fair, kids can look for famous faces, such as Marcel Pagnol, Fernandel and Lino Ventura.

Is there a Christmas market in Marseille?

Yes. The Christmas cabin market on the Quai de la Fraternité runs from November 28, 2026 to January 3, 2027, with free entry and afternoon activities. In 2025 a separate Christmas market at the foot of La Canebière had 50 exhibitors.

When are the Christmas lights switched on in Marseille?

In 2026 the lights launch on Saturday, November 28 on the Old Port, together with an aerial ballet called Nexus at City Hall, and both are free. In 2025 the lights went on on Saturday, November 29.

Is there a children's village in Marseille?

Yes. In 2026 the Village des enfants takes place on Saturday, December 12 from 10 am to 7 pm on Place Castellane and the Opera forecourt. It is free and has face painting, craft workshops, giant wooden games, a bubble show and balloon sculptors.

Where can kids meet Santa in Marseille?

In 2025 Father Christmas arrived by horse-drawn carriage on Place Castellane on December 17, and a Father Christmas cabin stood on the Bargemon esplanade. In 2026 a free neighborhood party in Belle de Mai on Sunday, November 29 has a photo booth with him. Check the official city page for more 2026 appearances.

Are there free Christmas events in Marseille?

Yes. Free events include the santon fair, the Christmas cabin market, the children's village on December 12, the lights launch on November 28, the drone show and fireworks on December 19, and the Belle de Mai neighborhood party on November 29.

Is there a drone show and fireworks in Marseille at Christmas?

In 2026 a drone show and fireworks are planned around the Old Port on Saturday, December 19, free, with details to come. In 2025 the show took place on December 20 at 8 pm.

Are there Christmas shows for toddlers and babies in Marseille?

Yes, plenty. Divadlo Théâtre has 30 minute puppet and musical shows for babies and toddlers on several dates in December, at 8 euros. Le Noël de Nawàham, a tale for babies and toddlers, plays at the Théâtre des Chartreux on December 4 and 5, at 8 euros.

Where can we see The Nutcracker in Marseille in 2026?

Three listings: British Festival Ballet at the Silo on Sunday, November 29 (45 to 65 euros, 35 for under 16 in the first two seat categories), a ballet with orchestra at Le Dôme on Friday, December 18 (from 43 euros), and a children's theater version at Divadlo on December 22 and 23 (9 euros).

Is there ice skating in Marseille at Christmas?

Yes. An ice rink and a luge track open at the J4, opposite the Mucem, from December 12, 2026 to January 3, 2027. Prices were not yet published when this page was written.

Are there Christmas workshops for kids in Marseille?

Yes. At the La Grognarde library, kids aged 4 and up make Christmas decorations on Wednesday, December 9. The Saint-André library hosts an all day creative workshop for all ages on December 16, and the history museum has a family stamp-making workshop on December 23.

Are Christmas events in Marseille in English?

Most events here are in the local language, which is French. Shows, workshops and library sessions are usually in French, so check with the host if you need English. The fair, lights and ice rink need no language.

How long does the Christmas season last in Marseille?

On this page, events run from November 14, 2026 to January 3, 2027. Most theater shows cluster in December and the school holidays, with several on December 22 and 23.

Sources

  1. Foire aux santons et santonniers à Marseille, Office de Tourisme de Marseille
  2. Top départ des illuminations de Noël à Marseille le samedi 29 novembre, Made in Marseille
  3. Les festivités de Noël à Marseille : marchés, concerts, feu d’artifice, découvrez le programme 2025, Fréquence Sud
  4. Les crèches de Noël à Marseille, Office de Tourisme de Marseille
  5. Les fêtes de la Chandeleur à Marseille, Office de Tourisme de Marseille
  6. Le Four des Navettes, Office de Tourisme de Marseille
  7. Jean-Louis Lagnel, Wikipédia
Kelsey Cecil
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