As every year, the magic of Christmas takes hold of Lille from mid-November. The Lille Christmas Market, one of the largest in northern France, returns to Place Rihour and the surrounding streets to enchant young and old alike. Here is everything you need to know about the 2025 edition.
Dates and opening times
The Lille Christmas Market 2025 opens its doors on Friday 21 November and continues until Monday 30 December. The chalets are open from Sunday to Thursday from 11am to 8pm, and on Fridays and Saturdays from 11am to 10pm. Extended hours are planned during the Christmas school holidays. Admission to the market is free.
Over 90 chalets on Place Rihour
This year, over 90 wooden chalets are set up on Place Rihour and spill over into the adjacent streets. Exhibitors from across France and Europe offer artisan creations, Christmas decorations, wooden toys, pottery, leather goods and many more gift ideas. A rigorous selection process guarantees the quality and authenticity of the products on offer.
Food and treats
The Christmas Market is also a paradise for food lovers. Mulled wine, hot chocolate, crêpes, waffles, gingerbread, speculoos and other delights are all on the menu. Regional specialities take centre stage: northern cheeses, craft beers from the local breweries, Flemish charcuterie and traditional confectionery. A dining area allows you to sample these products on site, in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
The big wheel and entertainment
The centrepiece of the festivities, the 50-metre-high big wheel offers an exceptional panoramic view over an illuminated Lille. Families will also appreciate the Christmas carousel, the ice rink and Santa's grotto where children can leave their letters. Throughout the period, entertainment punctuates the visit: choirs, street shows, enchanting parades and creative workshops for younger visitors.
City illuminations
Beyond the market, the entire city centre of Lille is adorned with lights for the festive season. The Grand'Place, Rue de Béthune, the Vieux-Lille and the main shopping streets sparkle with a thousand lights. The giant Christmas tree on the Grand'Place is lit up during an official ceremony that attracts thousands of Lille residents every year.
How to get there
Place Rihour is easily accessible by metro (Rihour station, line 1). During the Christmas Market period, parking in the city centre is very difficult: use public transport or park-and-ride car parks on the outskirts. Special shuttle services operate on peak weekends.