In Janvry, in the Essonne department, dozens of visitors flock every winter to this village of 630 residents to experience one of the region’s most beautiful Christmas markets. With more than 80,000 visitors per year, it has even become one of the most popular in the Île-de-France region.
For nearly thirty years, the festival committee and local residents have been transforming the village center and its Petite Ferme into a massive Christmas display. The event has grown over the years without losing its community-based nature. In 2025, more than 250 volunteers took part in the preparations, which began as early as October. This year, it will take place from November 27 to 29, and then from December 4 to 6.
Free rides, a miniature train, and a collection of nativity scenes from around the world
In Janvry, the market is more than just a few stalls selling pretzels and mulled wine. Around a hundred vendors typically offer handmade crafts, decorations, and gourmet specialties. For the 2025 edition, as many as 150 vendors turned out, some traveling from various regions across France.
Entertainment plays a major role in the festival, and the village is particularly known for its free rides, miniature train rides, horse-drawn carriage rides, and its exhibition of nativity scenes from around the world, set up in the church. The bread oven and visits from Santa Claus are also part of the local traditions.
Much of the setup is done by the volunteers themselves. This is what sets Janvry apart from the region’s large commercial Christmas markets. Here, decorations fill the village’s historic buildings and courtyards, while artisans set up shop in the chalets and spaces at the Petite Ferme.
For Parisians thinking of visiting, it’s best to plan ahead for the crowds. Every year, the market welcomes far more visitors than the village has residents, with significant traffic congestion possible during peak hours!
Location: Petite Ferme de Janvry, Place de l’Église, 91640 Janvry (Essonne).
Dates: November 27–29 and December 4–6, 2026. Friday from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.