La Foire aux Santons à Marseille en 2026

From November 14, 2026 to January 3, 2027, the Foire aux Santons de Marseille will return for another colorful edition! Combining craftsmanship, Provençal traditions and a festive atmosphere, this iconic event immerses you in the magical world of nativity scenes and santons. A must-do outing to get ready for Christmas with family or friends. Presentation of the Foire aux Santons de Marseille The Foire aux Santons de Marseille is the oldest and most famous in Provence. Since 1803, it has kept the art of santon-making alive and perpetuated a popular tradition rooted in the hearts of the people of Marseille. As early as the 13th century, the tradition of nativity scenes took hold in Provence, introduced by Franciscan monks. But it was truly following the French Revolution, with the ban on church nativity scenes, that private nativity scenes and clay santons became popular. In 1798, Marseille native Louis Lagnel invented the first plaster molds, making these figurines accessible to everyone. Having become the capital of santon-making, Marseille has organized its traditional Foire aux Santons for more than two centuries. First held on cours Saint-Louis, then at various locations around the city, it has been based since 2009 at Place Charles de Gaulle, at the bottom of La Canebière, near the Vieux-Port. Also discover the chalets at the Marché de Noël de Marseille and their exhibitors.The date of the Foire aux Santons de Marseille in 2026 The next edition of the Foire aux Santons de Marseille will take place from November 14, 2026 to January 3, 2027. Opening hours for the Foire aux Santons de Marseille: Sunday to Thursday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Foire aux Santons de Marseille: the 2026 program The program for the next edition, which will take place in November 2026, is not yet available. More than just a santon market at Marseille's Vieux-Port, the fair is a true cultural event showcasing the Provençal way of life. The fair takes place at the Vieux-Port de Marseille (Quai du Port, 13001 Marseille). You will find the fairground and the santon makers' stalls there. Below is the program from the previous edition of the Foire aux Santons de Marseille, to give you an idea of what may await you. Opening of the Foire aux Santons The opening will take place on Sunday, November 16, 2025, with a full-day program: 10:30 a.m.: Santon makers' Mass in Provençal at Saint-Cannat les Prêcheurs Church. 12 p.m.: Cutting of the symbolic ribbon at the entrance to the fairground. Afternoon: Visit to the stalls by the Mayor and elected officials, accompanied by dances performed by folk groups. Stalls to discover Santon makers and art craftsmen: hundreds of handcrafted figurines depicting the Nativity as well as typical Provençal characters (shepherds, fishermen, bakers…). Provençal food products chalet: sample local specialties and take home typically Provençal treats. Provençal bookshop: authors will present and sign their books devoted to the region's traditions and history. Santa Claus Post Office: a space for children to send their letter to Santa Claus, in partnership with La Poste. 21 santon makers gathered in central Marseille. Stalls selling santons, nativity scenes and accessories. Quality and “Fabrication Provence” certification Some exhibitors display the “Fabrication Provence” certification, guaranteeing in particular: Production carried out entirely in Provence in their workshop. Affiliation with a professional organization (Répertoire des métiers, Registre du commerce et des sociétés, Maison des Artistes). Professional business activity. No confusion between products made in the workshop and those that are not. A sworn declaration that all santons, nativity scenes and accessories are made in Provence. Visible display of the “Fabrication Provence” sign at the stall throughout the fair. Possible exclusion from the Association in the event of failure to meet commitments. Activities for young and old The 2025 edition of the Foire aux Santons de Marseille once again promises a wealth of festive activities: Music groups and folk dancing: every Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday, the fair will feature live performances with Provençal flair. Santon-making workshops for children: younger visitors will be able to model their own santon and discover the secrets of this traditional art (every Wednesday). Santa Claus Post Office for children, every day. For other outings to enjoy together, check our Marseille events calendar!Access and parking at the Foire aux Santons de Marseille Several options are available for getting to the Foire aux Santons de Marseille. 🚇 Getting there by public transport Metro Vieux-Port station, Canebière exit Line 1 metro station Bus Vieux-Port or Bourse stops Lines: 21, 31, 32, 41S, 49, 55, 57, 60, 61, 70, 80, 81, 83, 89, 97 Trams Line T2 Stop: Canebière T Garibaldi 🚘 Getting there by car Parking Marseille - Charles de Gaulles 22 Place du Général Charles de Gaulle, 13001 Marseille Opening hours: 7 days a week, 24 hours a day Parking Marseille - Bourse Rue Reine Elisabeth, 13001, Marseille Opening hours: 7 days a week, 24 hours a day Also visit the Marché de Noël de Montpellier.