Christmas in Provence at BHV Marais

Christmas in Provence … and in Marseille! From November 9 to December 31, the BHV will be decked out in the colors of Provence and Marseille, with a joint operation by the Marseille Tourist Office, the Comité Régional Tourisme and Provence Tourisme.

Published on 10 November 2022

Celebrating traditions

A unique Christmas

The traditions of Christmas in Provence will be in the spotlight, through the destination’s gastronomy, culture, landscapes and iconic sites. 51 local brands, artisans and designers will be on sale for the occasion. A “Noël en Provence” scenography will enliven the store windows, Provence products will be showcased and gastronomic events will be organized. A blend of terroir and ancestral know-how, this unique collaboration invites visitors to experience Christmas in the purest Provencal tradition.

The unmissable Sainte Barbe

Far from the hustle and bustle of summer, the Christmas season is also a great time to discover Marseille. The Christmas season kicks off on December 4, with Sainte Barbe, the custom of planting wheat seeds in 3 saucers containing moist cotton. When the wheat sprouts, if the stalk grows straight and green, the year will be prosperous and auspicious! These saucers will then be placed on the Christmas table, along with 3 white tablecloths (symbol of the Trinity)… Once the wheat has been planted, you can start on Santa’s list, as the city’s stores and artisans are brimming with lovely gifts, for every taste and every budget, but always Made in Marseille.

Marseille’s retailers shine

From food to decoration

For gourmets, a box of navettes from Les Accoules is a must, as are the incredible marrons glacés from Maison Corsiglia, which will find their place in the pretty tableware from Maison Louis Sicard, set out on the iconic Souleiado tablecloths. For the more fashionable, the Marseille line in mini or XXL versions remains the height of design, as does the original cicada by Monochromic, reminding us that summer will soon be back. For those for whom tradition is sacred, a santon from Maison Carbonel is always a pleasure, and will complete the nativity scene begun long ago. Each year sees the birth of a new character, and “the last Carbonel” is a must. A nice basket of Marseille soaps from La Corvette will also be appreciated and useful throughout the year, both for the home and for cosmetics. And for those who overindulged at Christmas lunch, a tisane du Père Blaize (Father Blaize ‘s herbal tea) is a must to recover from the 13 desserts, the pompe du Four des navettes, the stuffed turkey or the magnificent shellfish platter…

Marseille, your winter vacation destination

Christmastime is also a time for getting together with family and friends, and staying in Marseille in December is a wonderful experience. Even if the days are short, the weather is often mild, allowing you to hike in the Calanques in the best possible conditions, as well as enjoy lunch on the terrace, sheltered from the mistral wind, in the Vallon des Auffes or facing the Bonne Mère on the Vieux-Port. For the more active, book an activity on marseilleexperience to complete your winter stay. And while you’re out shopping or visiting a museum, why not warm up with a cup of coffee in one of the city’s many coffee shops? Or why not cross the Mediterranean and indulge in a hammam at Bastide des Bains, followed by a mint tea and oriental pastries.