Christmas Events for Kids in Nantes (2026)

Christmas Events for Kids
Written by Kelsey Cecil

14 min read · Lire en français

For 2026, we confirmed 25 Christmas events for kids in Nantes. The season opens on November 4 with Gabilolo et la hotte du Père Noël (Gabilolo and Santa's Sack) and runs until January 3 with Winter Journey (Le Voyage en hiver). Of these, 10 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 Nantes, Saint-Aignan-Grandlieu, Carquefou and Rezé: 25
  • First: Gabilolo et la hotte du Père Noël (Gabilolo and Santa's Sack), Nantes, November 4
  • Free events: Nantes Christmas Market (Marché de Noël de Nantes), Free Games Drive, Christmas Special (Opération jeux gratuits spécial Noël), Christmas in Nantes Nord (Noël à Nantes Nord), Kids Etc, 2026 Edition (Kids Etc, édition 2026), Christmas Decorating of Apartment Building Lobbies (Décoration de Noël de halls d'immeuble), The Story of the Nutcracker, Musical Tale (L'histoire de Casse-Noisette, conte musical) and more

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 Nantes

Kids’ Christmas events
25 confirmed for 2026
Towns
Nantes, Saint-Aignan-Grandlieu, Carquefou and Rezé
Season
November 4 to January 3
Free events
10
Last checked

Free 10Ticketed and paid 15

Free Christmas events for kids in Nantes

Christmas marketFree

Nantes Christmas Market (Marché de Noël de Nantes)

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The market is set up on place Royale and place du Commerce, in the heart of Nantes, with more than 150 chalets according to the organizer. It is open from 11 am to 9:30 pm Monday to Saturday and from 11 am to 8 pm on Sunday. On Dec 24, the chalets close at 6 pm.

Each week, a different association runs a community chalet. The tram (lines 1, 2 and 3, Commerce stop) and buses are free on Saturday and Sunday, according to Naolib. The program for Santa (Père Noël) and children's workshops has not been published yet for 2026: it is best to check before you come.

Parent tip: With a stroller, avoid Saturday afternoon, when it is very busy. The Commerce parking garage has 433 spaces but a height limit of 1.80 m (about 5 ft 11 in).

Host
Le Voyage à Nantes (opens in a new tab)
Where
Place Royale and place du Commerce, Place Royale, 44000 Nantes (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Le Voyage à Nantes (opens in a new tab)

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Rally’s Christmas research

Rally the corgi has 24 more Nantes events researched for you.

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Coming up on this page

  • 9 Crafts
  • 8 Shows
  • 7 Story time
  • 6 Markets
  • 10 Free

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Christmas showFree

Christmas in Nantes Nord (Noël à Nantes Nord)

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The Nantes Nord festive hall hosts a Christmas afternoon open to all, with family, friends or neighbors. Neighborhood associations offer activities and workshops, as well as dance and singing shows.

At 4:30 pm, it is time for the concert by Les Poussins Phoniques, a group of musician-singers for young audiences and parents, with songs drawn from rock, pop, funk or rap. Entry is free and food is available on site. For information, contact the La Mano neighborhood center at 02 40 41 61 80. The festive hall is at 73 avenue du Bout des Landes, in the Nantes Nord neighborhood. Children can enjoy the workshops all afternoon.

Parent tip: The Poussins Phoniques concert is at 4:30 pm; food on site.

Host
Maison de quartier La Mano (opens in a new tab)
Where
Salle festive Nantes Nord, 73 avenue du Bout des Landes, 44300 Nantes (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Maison de quartier La Mano (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas craftsFree

Kids Etc, 2026 Edition (Kids Etc, édition 2026)

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Kids Etc brings together more than 45 makers and brands around children's fashion, toys, decor and accessories. Entry is free.

Also on the program: creative, playful workshops, free activities, a snack break and an immersive Candy Christmas setting designed by illustrator Célia Aubry. No detailed hourly program is published in the listing.

Parent tip: The detailed workshop program is not published, so check the event website.

Host
Kids Etc (opens in a new tab)
Where
Le Palace (Ici Lundi premises), Nantes, 44000 Nantes (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Kids Etc (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas craftsFree

Christmas Decorating of Apartment Building Lobbies (Décoration de Noël de halls d'immeuble)

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In the Nantes Nord neighborhood, the invitation is simple: come make great Christmas decorations in the lobby of the buildings at numbers 3 and 5 rue de Québec. The workshops are open to all and free, and children easily find their place.

The sessions are listed for Dec 10 and 16; the calendar mentions a 4 pm start on Dec 10 and a 6 pm end on Dec 16, without giving the details of each session. The PaQ'la Lune organization serves as a landmark. It is a neighborhood activity rather than a big event: it suits local families who want to create together and meet their neighbors before the holidays. It is advisable to contact the organization to confirm the exact times.

Parent tip: Confirm the exact times with PaQ'la Lune.

Host
Nantes Nord, PaQ'la Lune (opens in a new tab)
Where
PaQ'la Lune, 5 rue de Québec, 44300 Nantes (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Nantes Nord, PaQ'la Lune (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas showFree

The Story of the Nutcracker, Musical Tale (L'histoire de Casse-Noisette, conte musical)

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As Christmas approaches, students in the bowed strings department of the Conservatoire de Nantes (violin, viola, cello and double bass) revisit the famous musical tale of the Nutcracker.

The concert is part of the conservatory's young audience season, "Ohé, l'heure des enfants," and is aimed at ages 6 to 9. The event is on a Friday evening at 8 pm at the conservatory, 4 rue Gaëtan Rondeau, on the île de Nantes, for a session of about an hour. Access is free and open, with no reservation, while places last, and you can walk in from 8 pm. An easy first musical outing to discover Tchaikovsky's work and classical music as a family before the holidays.

Parent tip: Come a little early: free entry with no reservation, while places last.

Host
Conservatoire de Nantes (opens in a new tab)
Where
Conservatoire de Nantes, 4 rue Gaëtan Rondeau, 44200 Nantes (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Conservatoire de Nantes (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas showFree

Christmas Trail in Les Olivettes (Circuit de Noël aux Olivettes)

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To warm up the winter, the Olivettes neighborhood holds a Christmas stroll on the weekend of Dec 12 and 13. The program includes shows, brunch, workshops, gifts and handmade crafts, and activities at several partner venues, from Le Grand Bain to the Madeleine Café and the neighborhood center.

On arrival, you pick up a leaflet and a passport, then collect stamps along the route for a chance to win a prize. Kids love this stamp-hunt idea. The event is free and open to all ages. The route links Le Grand Bain, Pol'n, the Madeleine Café, the neighborhood center, Les Paillettes Sauvages, the Atelier du Petit Parc and the TNT. An initiative of the Le Grand Bain association.

Parent tip: Pick up the passport as soon as you arrive for the stamp hunt.

Host
Le Grand Bain (opens in a new tab)
Where
Le Grand Bain and venues in the Olivettes neighborhood, 20 allée de la Maison Rouge, 44000 Nantes (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Le Grand Bain (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas story timeFree

Little Tales of the Far North (Petits Contes du Grand Nord)

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With Noémie Truffaut and the company Les Corbeaux Dynamites, the Luce Courville library offers a journey beyond the northern wind. In that world, in winter, the land is white with snow and the sky white with mist; if you run straight toward the horizon, you can pass from land to sky without even noticing.

By turns mischievous, touching, poetic or dreamlike, these Inuit legends of the Far North are told for an hour, for children ages 6 and up and their families. The Luce Courville library is at 1 rue Eugène Thomas, in the Nantes Nord neighborhood. A lovely winter outing for kids who like stories from far away. Access is open and free for everyone.

Parent tip: Free one-hour show at the library, in the Nantes Nord neighborhood. Expect the stories to be in French.

Host
Nantes Municipal Library (Bibliothèque municipale de Nantes) (opens in a new tab)
Where
Médiathèque Luce Courville, 1 rue Eugène Thomas, 44300 Nantes (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Nantes Municipal Library (Bibliothèque municipale de Nantes) (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas events for kids in Saint-Aignan-Grandlieu

Family Christmas eventFree

Everyone to the Movies, Christmas Special (Tous au ciné, spécial Noël !) (Saint-Aignan-Grandlieu)

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The Saint-Aignan-Grandlieu library offers a special Christmas movie session for families. The aim is to enjoy a relaxing time while showcasing the richness of animated films and children's documentaries.

The screening takes place in the Paul Pouvreau hall of the Espace Vie Locale, which has tiered seating. The animated film is announced at registration. The session is free, for ages 4 and up, by reservation at 02 40 26 44 55 or by email to the library. The Espace Vie Locale is at 41 rue des Frères Rousseau, in Saint-Aignan-Grandlieu, south of Nantes. A free, warm outing, handy on a December Wednesday afternoon.

Parent tip: Reserve at 02 40 26 44 55; the film title is given at registration.

Host
Médiathèque de Saint-Aignan-Grandlieu (opens in a new tab)
Where
Espace Vie Locale, salle Paul Pouvreau, 41 rue des Frères Rousseau, 44860 Saint-Aignan-Grandlieu (opens in maps)
Registration
Required
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Médiathèque de Saint-Aignan-Grandlieu (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas story timeFree

Story Hour, Christmas Special (L'heure du conte, spécial Noël) (Saint-Aignan-Grandlieu)

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Story hour (l'heure du conte) is presented as children's special time to travel through the world of reading. The Dec 16, 2026 session has Christmas as its theme and takes place at the Le jardin de Lecture library, in Saint-Aignan-Grandlieu.

Entry is free, for families and young audiences, with no specific age range. Reservation is recommended at 02 40 26 44 55 or by email at mediatheque@sagl.fr.

Parent tip: Reserve at 02 40 26 44 55 or mediatheque@sagl.fr. Expect the stories to be in French.

Host
Médiathèque Le jardin de Lecture (opens in a new tab)
Where
Médiathèque Le jardin de Lecture, 39 rue des Frères Rousseau, 44860 Saint-Aignan-Grandlieu (opens in maps)
Registration
Recommended
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Médiathèque Le jardin de Lecture (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas events for kids in Rezé

Family Christmas eventFree

Free Games Drive, Christmas Special (Opération jeux gratuits spécial Noël) (Rezé)

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From Wednesday, Dec 2 to Saturday, Dec 5, 2026, the Alterboutik in Rezé holds a free secondhand games and toys drive as Christmas approaches. You can find board games, dolls, puzzles or books, something for every taste.

Each family can go home for free with three games or toys and three decorations or gifts. The drive starts on Wednesday, Dec 2 at 2 pm and ends on Saturday, Dec 5 at noon; the exact daily hours are not detailed. It is a practical idea for families who want to prepare for Christmas on a small budget, while giving toys a second life. Children can choose for themselves among the books and games on offer, which makes the visit fun.

Parent tip: Call or stop by the Alterboutik for each day's opening hours.

Host
L'Alterboutik (opens in a new tab)
Where
L'Alterboutik, rue de la Quératière, 44400 Rezé (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with L'Alterboutik (opens in a new tab)

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Ticketed and paid Christmas events for kids in Nantes

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

Visit with Santa

Gabilolo et la hotte du Père Noël (Gabilolo and Santa's Sack)

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Christmas is coming and Santa (Père Noël) is very tired. Gabilolo, the kind clown with red hair and a red nose, wants to help, but the sack has disappeared. Was it stolen by one of the sisters of Fée Licité? Fée Rosse, Fée Blesse, Fée Gnante who sleeps standing up, or Fée Nomène who reads minds? (The names are French puns.)

This interactive show by Catherine Degay, performed by La Dandinière, lasts 50 minutes and is for ages 2 to 8. The children take part in the plot and help Gabilolo unmask the culprit. Performances are on Wednesdays and Sundays, with morning sessions on some Sundays in December. The Théâtre de Jeanne is at 5 rue des Salorges, in the Bellevue Chantenay Sainte-Anne neighborhood, and the hall is wheelchair accessible.

Parent tip: On Sundays Dec 6 and 13, an 11 am session is added to the 3 pm one; prices exclude booking fees. Expect the show to be in French.

Host
Théâtre de Jeanne (opens in a new tab)
Where
Théâtre de Jeanne, 5 rue des Salorges, 44100 Nantes (opens in maps)
Registration
Recommended
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Théâtre de Jeanne (opens in a new tab)

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Family Christmas event

Kids Activity Ages 7 to 11, Christmas Investigation (Animation enfants 7/11 ans, enquête de Noël)

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At the Château des ducs de Bretagne, children ages 7 to 11 are invited to investigate. They discover the Christmas mysteries hidden in the collections of the Nantes history museum and follow the clues to understand what happened 100 years ago.

The activity lasts two hours, on Saturday afternoons and several days of the vacation. The price is €4 for children of Nantes Métropole and €7 for others, with a reduced rate for Carte blanche holders. Booking is online through the castle's ticket office. The castle is at 4 place Marc Elder, right downtown. The activity takes place in the rooms of the Nantes history museum, in the heart of the castle.

Parent tip: Book online; the rate is €2.50 with the Carte blanche. Expect the activity to be in French.

Host
Château des ducs de Bretagne, Nantes History Museum (musée d'histoire de Nantes) (opens in a new tab)
Where
Château des ducs de Bretagne, 4 place Marc Elder, 44000 Nantes (opens in maps)
Registration
Required
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Château des ducs de Bretagne, Nantes History Museum (musée d'histoire de Nantes) (opens in a new tab)

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Family Christmas event

Kids Activity, Christmas Sensory Tour (Animation enfants, visite sensorielle de Noël)

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During the holidays, the Château des ducs de Bretagne offers children a tour full of surprises. Along the route, different scents tied to the museum's objects carry them on a journey through the ages, an original way to discover the collections and the history of the castle.

The activity lasts an hour and a half and is for children ages 4 and up. Parents leave the children with the museum's guide team for the whole visit, which gives adults time for a break in town. Online booking through the castle's ticket office. The tour runs on Wednesday afternoons and Saturday mornings, then almost every morning of the vacation, through Jan 2. The reduced Carte blanche rate is €2.50.

Parent tip: Children take part on their own with the guides; plan to come back to pick them up at the end. Expect the tour to be in French.

Host
Château des ducs de Bretagne, Nantes History Museum (musée d'histoire de Nantes) (opens in a new tab)
Where
Château des ducs de Bretagne, 4 place Marc Elder, 44000 Nantes (opens in maps)
Registration
Required
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Château des ducs de Bretagne, Nantes History Museum (musée d'histoire de Nantes) (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas lights

Winter Journey (Le Voyage en hiver)

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Le Voyage en hiver is a trail across the whole city, from Nov 21, 2026 to Jan 3, 2027. It brings together light displays, Christmas markets, concerts and new artworks, with four guest artists this year.

The event listing mentions children's workshops and Santa's (Père Noël's) mailbox, without giving days or prices. The Voyage à Nantes welcome desk, at 9 rue des États, is open every day from 10 am to 6 pm (11 am on Thursday, 10 am to 5 pm on Sunday) and closes on Dec 25 and Jan 1.

Parent tip: Stop by the Voyage à Nantes welcome desk for the trail map. Prices vary by site, so check each one before you go.

Host
Le Voyage à Nantes (opens in a new tab)
Where
Trail across the whole city (welcome desk: 9 rue des États), 9 rue des États, 44000 Nantes (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Le Voyage à Nantes (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas crafts

Family Tour and Workshop, Christmas at the Castle (Visite et atelier en famille, Noël au château)

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During the holidays, the Château des ducs de Bretagne offers a tour-workshop to share as a family. After a playful discovery of the castle, children and adults move on to making something together, a keepsake inspired by their visit.

The activity lasts an hour and a half. It is for adults with children ages 8 to 14, with a limit of two children per adult. It takes place on Sundays at 11 am, and at 3 pm on Dec 22, 23, 29 and 30. Booking is online through the castle's ticket office. The full adult price is €12, with discounts for ages 18 to 25 and large families. Ages 7 to 17 pay €2.50 and entry is free for children under 7.

Parent tip: Two children maximum per adult; online booking is required. Expect the activity to be in French.

Host
Château des ducs de Bretagne, Nantes History Museum (musée d'histoire de Nantes) (opens in a new tab)
Where
Château des ducs de Bretagne, 4 place Marc Elder, 44000 Nantes (opens in maps)
Registration
Required
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Château des ducs de Bretagne, Nantes History Museum (musée d'histoire de Nantes) (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas crafts

Advent Wreath and Christmas Decoration Workshop (Atelier de fabrication de couronnes de l'Avent et de décorations de Noël)

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Young and old first set off on a walk along the Erdre, looking for pine cones, twigs, leaves and other plant treasures. Then comes the workshop: everyone makes their own natural Advent wreath and small Christmas decorations to hang.

This intergenerational, zero-waste activity lasts two hours, for ages 6 and up. In case of rain, it is held indoors at the Ecopole headquarters, 31 rue Louis Joxe, with all materials provided. The workshop costs €15 per adult and €12 per child. The meeting point is near the Petit Port swimming pool, on boulevard du Petit Port. Everyone goes home with their handmade wreath and decorations.

Parent tip: Dress for the walk; the fallback is at the Ecopole in case of rain. Contact: 06 08 47 78 50. Expect the workshop to be in French.

Host
Entourée par la nature (opens in a new tab)
Where
Piscine du Petit Port (starting point), Boulevard du Petit Port, 44300 Nantes (opens in maps)
Registration
Required
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Entourée par la nature (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas market

Toupie Magique Christmas Market (Marché de Noël de la Toupie Magique)

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For its fourth edition, the Christmas market of La Toupie Magique, a community daycare on the île de Nantes, offers a full day designed for families. The program includes face painting, a reading workshop, a Christmas choir, children's activities, Santa (Père Noël) on hand to meet little and big ones, and food and a drinks stand on site.

A makers' market also helps you find gift ideas. The reading workshop is a plus for families who love books, and the visit with Santa takes place in a friendly, small-scale atmosphere. The event is on Sunday, Dec 6, from 10 am to 5 pm, at 6 rue Ruth First. It is a community event open to all; ask about the admission price.

Parent tip: Ask on site for the times of Santa (Père Noël) and the reading workshop.

Host
Crèche associative La Toupie Magique de l'île (opens in a new tab)
Where
La Toupie Magique de l'île, 6 rue Ruth First, 44200 Nantes (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Crèche associative La Toupie Magique de l'île (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas show

Tous au Château ! (Everyone to the Castle!)

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During a winter afternoon, the clear, joyful voices of the children of the Pré-Maîtrise of Nantes Cathedral and the Maîtrise de la Perverie turn up in turn in the courtyard, rooms and corners of the Château des ducs de Bretagne. The audience follows them on a varied, bright stroll on the theme of winter and Christmas, linking history, music, heritage objects and wondrous tales.

The concert is organized in partnership with the Château des ducs de Bretagne, Nantes History Museum, and the Maîtrise de la Perverie. Entry is free, except for the musical performances located in the history museum route. Hearing singers their own age is often a good way to get children interested in music. The castle setting, in the heart of Nantes, adds to the atmosphere.

Parent tip: Free entry, except for the musical performances in the history museum route.

Host
Sacred Music of Nantes Cathedral (Musique sacrée de la cathédrale de Nantes) (opens in a new tab)
Where
Château des ducs de Bretagne, 4 place Marc Elder, 44000 Nantes (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Sacred Music of Nantes Cathedral (Musique sacrée de la cathédrale de Nantes) (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas story time

Musical Tales (Contes musicaux)

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At the Lisa Bresner library, the piano and percussion classes of the Conservatoire de Nantes, Bellevue site, take the audience from one tale to the next. It is a friendly musical reading for the whole family, presented while waiting for the holidays, for ages 5 and up.

The event lasts about an hour, on a Wednesday afternoon, which suits school-age children well. It is not a Christmas show as such, but it fits the pre-holiday mood. For booking, it is best to ask the library before coming, since places may be limited. A nice chance to introduce children to instruments in a calm setting.

Parent tip: Contact the library to find out whether a reservation is needed. Expect the tales to be in French.

Host
Nantes Municipal Library (Bibliothèque municipale de Nantes) (opens in a new tab)
Where
Médiathèque Lisa Bresner, 23 boulevard Émile Romanet, 44100 Nantes (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Nantes Municipal Library (Bibliothèque municipale de Nantes) (opens in a new tab)

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Christmas story time

Winter Tales Evening and Snack (Soirée contes d'hiver et goûter)

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The La Manu community center marks the start of the Christmas vacation with an evening of winter-themed stories. Storytellers tell lovely tales for the little ones and the grown-ups alike, and a snack is offered to those with a sweet tooth.

The detailed story program is to be announced soon. The event is free, with registration by phone at 02 40 37 07 87, by email or at the front desk, but Accoord membership (€8.80) is required. The date is Friday, Dec 18 in the late afternoon. La Manu is at 1 place de la Manu, in the Malakoff Saint-Donatien neighborhood. A friendly, cozy way to kick off the Christmas vacation as a family.

Parent tip: Register at 02 40 37 07 87; Accoord membership needed. Expect the stories to be in French.

Host
ACCOORD, centre socioculturel La Manu (opens in a new tab)
Where
Centre socioculturel La Manu, 1 place de la Manu, 44000 Nantes (opens in maps)
Registration
Required
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with ACCOORD, centre socioculturel La Manu (opens in a new tab)

New events in Nantes every week

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Christmas lights

Christmas at the Nefs (Noël aux Nefs)

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Noël aux Nefs is part of the Voyage en hiver and runs from Dec 19 to 27, 2026 in the Nefs des Machines de l'île, on the île de Nantes. Entry is free, except on Dec 25.

The details of the activities and the hours do not appear on the pages consulted. The simplest thing is to check the day's program on the Voyage à Nantes website before heading out with the children.

Parent tip: The hours and the nature of the activities are not published in the sources consulted: check before you come.

Host
Le Voyage à Nantes (opens in a new tab)
Where
Nefs des Machines de l'île, Parc des Chantiers, boulevard Léon-Bureau, 44200 Nantes (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Le Voyage à Nantes (opens in a new tab)

New events in Nantes every week

Rally looks for new Christmas events in Nantes 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

Lucie et la promesse de Noël (Lucie and the Christmas Promise)

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Every year, in the greatest secret, Lucie, a little fairy with a big heart, crisscrosses the sky to deliver gifts to children all over the world. This year, she thinks it is time to pass the torch. With Eylkä, her mischievous sprite, she travels through traditional tales and legends, from the snowy kingdom of Dame Holle to the lake of the mysterious Ondine.

This musical tale by Aline et Art Cie, with original songs and colorful characters, is for ages 3 to 10. It plays throughout the Christmas vacation, often twice a day. The show is written and performed by Camille Muzard and Estelle Evora, directed by Quentin Filiatre. Tickets cost €10 to €12, excluding booking fees, and the hall is wheelchair accessible.

Parent tip: Many sessions during the vacation, in the afternoon; prices exclude booking fees. Expect the show to be in French.

Host
Théâtre de Jeanne (opens in a new tab)
Where
Théâtre de Jeanne, 5 rue des Salorges, 44100 Nantes (opens in maps)
Registration
Recommended
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Théâtre de Jeanne (opens in a new tab)

New events in Nantes every week

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

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Christmas crafts

Workshop "The Hidden Creatures of the Tree" (Atelier « Les créatures cachées du sapin »)

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Who lives in the Christmas tree? During the December vacation, artist Joel Janse van Vuuren invites children to invent and sculpt a small imaginary creature from aluminum foil, masking tape and paint.

Legs, wings, ears, horns or tails take shape bit by bit before being painted and personalized; each creation then becomes a decoration to hang in the tree. The workshop lasts two hours, for ages 6 to 15, with ten places at most. Registration is online. The workshop is held at the Collectif Bonus's Félix Thomas site, 39 rue Félix Thomas, as part of the art practice workshops offered by the collective's artists during the December vacation.

Parent tip: Only ten places: book early online. Expect the workshop to be in French.

Host
Collectif Bonus (opens in a new tab)
Where
Collectif Bonus, Félix Thomas site, 39 rue Félix Thomas, 44000 Nantes (opens in maps)
Registration
Required
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Collectif Bonus (opens in a new tab)

New events in Nantes every week

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

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Carol concert

Christmas Concert, Les Cordes sensibles (Concert de Noël, Les Cordes sensibles)

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The quartet Les Cordes sensibles, an ensemble of professional musicians from the Pays de la Loire, offers a Christmas concert on the intimate stage of the Théâtre Rue de Belleville in Nantes. The program features classical pieces children often know: Tchaikovsky's Nutcracker, Vivaldi's Summer, Saint-Saëns's Carnival of the Animals and a few surprises.

A magical moment in store. The concert lasts about an hour, on Sunday, Dec 20 at 3 pm, a convenient time for families. The hall is small, so you can see the musicians up close. For the price and booking, ask the theater. The repertoire suits children who can already pay attention.

Parent tip: Price and recommended age are not specified: contact the theater before coming.

Host
Théâtre Rue de Belleville (opens in a new tab)
Where
Théâtre Rue de Belleville, 19 rue de Belleville, 44100 Nantes (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Théâtre Rue de Belleville (opens in a new tab)

New events in Nantes every week

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

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Christmas events for kids in Carquefou

Christmas market

Carquefou Christmas Market (Marché de Noël de Carquefou)

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The Carquefou Christmas market is held Dec 4 to 6 at the Manoir des Renaudières, according to the Nantes Métropole calendar.

The hours, prices and children's program do not appear on the list consulted. The 2025 edition offered a visit from Santa (Père Noël), but nothing confirms it for 2026: check the event page or carquefou.fr.

Parent tip: Check the hours and children's activities on the event page before you go.

Host
Town of Carquefou (Ville de Carquefou) (opens in a new tab)
Where
Manoir des Renaudières, Les Renaudières, 44470 Carquefou (opens in maps)
Confirmed
On the host’s page, checked
Check dates and details with Town of Carquefou (Ville de Carquefou) (opens in a new tab)

New events in Nantes every week

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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 Nantes: questions parents ask

What are the 2026 Christmas events for kids in Nantes?

For 2026, we confirmed 25 Christmas events for kids in Nantes, each on its host’s own page: Tous au Château ! (Everyone to the Castle!), Gabilolo et la hotte du Père Noël (Gabilolo and Santa's Sack), Lucie et la promesse de Noël (Lucie and the Christmas Promise) and 22 more. Each one is listed above with times, cost and a link to the host.

Are there free Christmas events for kids in Nantes?

Yes, 10 of the 25 events here are free: Christmas Trail in Les Olivettes (Circuit de Noël aux Olivettes), Christmas Decorating of Apartment Building Lobbies (Décoration de Noël de halls d'immeuble), The Story of the Nutcracker, Musical Tale (L'histoire de Casse-Noisette, conte musical) and 7 more. Some free events still ask you to register, so check each listing.

Where can kids see Santa this year in Nantes?

Where to see Santa: Gabilolo et la hotte du Père Noël (Gabilolo and Santa's Sack) and Toupie Magique Christmas Market (Marché de Noël de la Toupie Magique). Check the listings above for times and booking.

Where are there Christmas story times for kids in Nantes?

Christmas story times on this page: Lucie et la promesse de Noël (Lucie and the Christmas Promise), Toupie Magique Christmas Market (Marché de Noël de la Toupie Magique), The Story of the Nutcracker, Musical Tale (L'histoire de Casse-Noisette, conte musical) and 4 more. Library story times are usually free; ones with a meal or show are ticketed.

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 Nantes

In Nantes, children mail their letters to Father Christmas in a box on Place du Bouffay, set up every year by a playful neighborhood association founded in 1974. Add a big market on Place Royale, giant bells in the castle moat and a winter art trail across the city, and you have a Christmas season made for families.

How Nantes celebrates Christmas

Christmas in Nantes starts in the city center. The Christmas market takes over Place Royale and Place du Commerce each year in late November, and in 2024 it celebrated its 26th edition. Since 2022 the city has also run a winter edition of its art festival, called Le Voyage en hiver (the Winter Journey), with artworks, bells and lights spread through the center.

For a visiting family, that means the whole downtown feels like one big seasonal stroll. You do not need a ticket for the market, and the lights and bells are the kind of thing kids spot from the sidewalk.

Traditions your kids will meet

The gift bringer here is Father Christmas, known in French as the Père Noël. In 2025 he received children in a lit-up wooden house on Place Royale, and families could take a photo with him. Children can also post a letter to him at the Santa mailbox on Place du Bouffay. It is run by the Commune libre du Bouffay, a fun neighborhood association created in 1974 and modeled on the one in Montmartre, with the motto "humor, kindness, cheerfulness." The box received between 500 and 600 letters over the 2024 holidays.

Another tradition is the lantern parade. At the Père Noël couleur Bouffay party in 2025, families shared a snack with songs, Father Christmas arrived on a float, and children were given lanterns for the walk. That party was free.

On the Île de Nantes, Noël aux Nefs decorates the Nefs street with big fir trees, and a small wooden carousel built in 2000 by Emmanuel Bourgeau carries 12 hand-carved sea animals.

Planning a Christmas visit to Nantes with kids

This season, the family listings on this page run from early November to January 3, 2027, so there is plenty of room to plan around school breaks. The Christmas market runs from November 19 to December 27, 2026, with free entry and more than 150 chalets. The Winter Journey trail runs from November 21, 2026 to January 3, 2027. Noël aux Nefs runs December 19 to 27, 2026, free except on December 25.

Beyond the big attractions, the page lists the confirmed events in all, and many of them are free. You will find theater shows for little ones, castle workshops, library storytimes, neighborhood Christmas afternoons and concerts. Many events fall on weekends and Wednesdays, and the holiday weeks from December 19 are especially full.

Most events are in French, so check with the host if you need English for a workshop or story session.

Robert the bell and a castle full of Christmas

The Château des ducs de Bretagne is where Anne of Brittany was born and grew up. In 2016, a giant Advent calendar was projected onto its walls, with a new window opening every day from December 1 to 24. In the castle moat, decorated bells ring for the Winter Journey. In 2025 a bell from the Fontevraud abbey, nicknamed Robert, joined them. It stands 2 meters tall and weighs 5 tons, about as much as several cars.

Traditions today

  • The Christmas market on Place Royale and Place du Commerce: The city presents it as the biggest Christmas market in western France. In 2025 it had close to 140 exhibitors, and Father Christmas had a lit-up house on Place Royale.
  • The Winter Journey: Since 2022, artworks, bells and 42 km of string lights (in 2025) dress the city center from late November to early January.
  • The Santa mailbox on Place du Bouffay: Children can post a letter to Father Christmas in a box set up every year by the Commune libre du Bouffay and the city.
  • The Bouffay lantern parade: A snack with songs, Father Christmas arriving on a float, then a parade with lanterns given to the children.
  • Noël aux Nefs: On the Île de Nantes, the Nefs street is decorated with tall fir trees, carousels and treats during the holidays.
  • Christmas at the castle: Tours, workshops and stories for families at the Château des ducs de Bretagne during the holiday season.

A fact for kids

At Christmas, a giant bell named Robert rings near the castle in Nantes. It is 2 meters tall and weighs 5 tons, as much as several cars.

Questions about Christmas in Nantes

Is Nantes worth visiting at Christmas with kids?

Yes, if your family likes lights, markets and hands-on activities. The Christmas market is free to enter, the Winter Journey trail fills the center with lights and bells, and the castle runs workshops for children. This page lists the confirmed family events, many of them free.

When does the Christmas market in Nantes open in 2026?

The Nantes Christmas market runs from Thursday, November 19 to Sunday, December 27, 2026. Entry is free and there are more than 150 chalets. In 2025 the chalets were open 11 am to 9:30 pm Monday to Saturday and 11 am to 8 pm on Sundays, so check the official page for this year's hours.

Where is the Christmas market in Nantes?

It is held on Place Royale and Place du Commerce in the city center. The city describes it as the biggest Christmas market in western France. In 2025 it welcomed close to 140 exhibitors, about 60 percent of them local businesses.

Where can kids meet Santa in Nantes?

During the Christmas market in 2025, Father Christmas received children in a lit-up house on Place Royale, from November 21 to December 24, on Wednesdays and weekends from 2:30 to 6:30 pm. Families could take a photo with him. For 2026, check the official market page, and note that a Christmas market at the Toupie Magique nursery on Sunday, December 6 also lists Father Christmas.

Where can my child mail a letter to Father Christmas in Nantes?

Kids can post their letters at the Santa mailbox on Place du Bouffay. The Commune libre du Bouffay and the city of Nantes set it up each year for the holidays. It returned on November 12 in 2025, and it received between 500 and 600 letters the year before.

What is the Winter Journey in Nantes?

It is the winter edition of the city's art trail, started in 2022. From late November to early January, artworks and lights appear across the center, including bells in the castle moat and a snowman carousel on Place du Bouffay. In 2026 it runs from November 21 to January 3, 2027.

What are the giant bells near the castle in Nantes?

They are a sound artwork by Dominique Blais for the Winter Journey. Bells decorated by artists sit in the moat of the castle of the dukes of Brittany. In 2025 a bell from Fontevraud abbey, nicknamed Robert, joined them. It is 2 meters tall and weighs 5 tons.

What is the Père Noël couleur Bouffay lantern parade?

It is a traditional party run by the Commune libre du Bouffay. In 2025, on Saturday, December 13, families shared a snack with songs, Father Christmas arrived on a float at 5:45 pm, and a lantern parade followed. Lanterns are given to the children and the party is free.

What is the Commune libre du Bouffay?

It is a Nantes association created in 1974 and modeled on the free commune of Montmartre in Paris. Its motto is "humor, kindness, cheerfulness." At Christmas it sets up the Santa mailbox and organizes the lantern parade.

What is Noël aux Nefs?

It is a Christmas celebration under the Nefs on the Île de Nantes, near the Machines de l'île. The Nefs street is decorated with tall fir trees, with carousels, waffles, hot chocolate and shows. In 2026 it runs December 19 to 27, with free entry except on December 25.

Are there free Christmas events in Nantes?

Yes, many of the events are free. They include the Christmas market, the Kids Etc family festival on December 5 and 6, the Christmas trail in the Olivettes neighborhood on December 12 and 13, a free Nutcracker musical tale on December 11, and a free Christmas afternoon in Nantes Nord on December 5.

What can kids do at the castle of the dukes of Brittany at Christmas?

There are three options listed for 2026. A 90 minute family tour and workshop is for adults with children aged 8 to 14, a two hour Christmas mystery trail is for ages 7 to 11, and a 90 minute sensory Christmas tour is for children 4 and up. On December 12, children's choirs also sing Christmas songs in the courtyard and rooms.

How much do the Christmas workshops at the castle cost?

The family tour and workshop costs 12 euros per adult and 2.50 euros for ages 7 to 17, and it is free for children under 7. The mystery trail and the sensory tour cost 4 euros for children from Nantes Métropole and 7 euros for those from outside it.

Are there Christmas shows for young children in Nantes?

Yes. At the Théâtre de Jeanne, an interactive clown show about Santa's lost sack, for ages 2 to 8, plays Wednesdays and Sundays until December 16. A musical fairy tale for ages 3 to 10 plays every day of the school holidays from December 19 to January 3, except December 25, December 31 and January 1. Tickets are 10 to 12 euros.

Are there Christmas crafts and workshops for kids in Nantes?

Yes. On December 6, a riverside walk is followed by a zero waste Advent wreath workshop for ages 6 and up, at 15 euros per adult and 12 euros per child. On December 19, an artist-led workshop for ages 6 to 15 has children sculpt a tree ornament creature, for 20 euros per participant.

Are there Christmas storytimes in Nantes?

Several. A free hour of Inuit winter legends for ages 6 and up is on Saturday, December 12, and a free Christmas storytime is on Wednesday, December 16 from 11 am to noon. A music and story session also runs that afternoon at another library, and a winter story evening with a snack is on December 18.

Are there Christmas concerts for families in Nantes?

Yes. Conservatory students perform a free Nutcracker musical tale for ages 6 to 9 on Friday, December 11 at 8 pm. A string quartet plays music from The Nutcracker and Vivaldi on Sunday, December 20, and there is a kids' rock concert at the Nantes Nord Christmas afternoon on December 5.

Are Christmas events in Nantes in English?

Most events here are in the local language, which is French. Shows, storytimes and workshops are usually run in French, so check with the host if you need English. Walking the market, the lights and the bells needs no language at all.

How long is the Christmas season in Nantes?

The events on this page run from early November to January 3, 2027. The market closes on December 27, while the Winter Journey trail continues to January 3. Holiday shows and castle activities fill the school break from December 19.

Is there a charity Christmas market in Nantes?

Yes, L'Autre marché at the Carré Feydeau. In 2025, for its 17th edition, it ran from November 28 to December 23 with 80 social and solidarity economy groups and 12 secondhand shops. On weekends there was also a producers' market with 8 to 10 farms.

Are there Christmas events near Nantes, outside the city?

Yes. The Carquefou Christmas market runs December 4 to 6, 2026, at the Manoir des Renaudières, though its kids' program is not confirmed. In Rezé, a secondhand shop gives families 3 free games or toys and 3 decorations or gifts in an operation listed from December 2 to 5.

How do I explain the Winter Journey to my kids?

Tell them the city turns into a giant treasure hunt. You follow the lights from street to street, listen for giant bells near the castle and look for funny artworks, like a snowman carousel on Place du Bouffay.

Sources

  1. Tout savoir sur le Voyage en hiver 2025 et les fêtes de fin d’année, Nantes Métropole
  2. Le Marché de Noël de Nantes, Le Voyage en Hiver, Nantes Métropole
  3. Le marché de Noël de Nantes éclipse Strasbourg, Ulysse
  4. Nantes : la Commune libre du Bouffay fête son jubilé, Nantes Métropole
  5. Le Père Noël Couleur Bouffay 2025, Nantes Métropole
  6. Nantes : fêtons Noël aux Nefs, Unidivers
  7. Nantes pour les fêtes de fin d’année, SNCF Connect
  8. Un Noël au château de Nantes, Camping-car.com
Kelsey Cecil
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