One of the most unusual Christmas activities in France, this event in the heart of troglodyte caves is back for the holidays. Over the course of a weekend, this enchanted Christmas market and its 75 exhibitors will offer thousands of regional and artisanal products, all set in a 10-million-year-old underground world!
Incredible troglodyte Christmas market reopens in December
Just a stone’s throw from Saumur, in the charming commune of Doué-la-Fontaine, a unique end-of-year event takes place every year: the Troglodyte Christmas Market. Over the course of a weekend in early December, the underground arenas dug into the falun rock welcome dozens of craftsmen and designers, and a scenography designed to take visitors on a voyage of discovery.
The idea was quite surprising: to set up a Christmas market underground, in the former troglodytic galleries of the Doué-en-Anjou arenas. These atypical spaces offer a fascinating natural setting, with their stone walls, sculpted vaults and that special silence not found above ground. The market takes full advantage of this originality to offer a Christmas getaway that’s off the beaten track.
For the 2025 edition, the event will take place on December 6 and 7. Saturday will be open from 9am to 10pm, and Sunday from 9am to 7pm. More than 75 exhibitors will be showcasing handcrafted creations, regional products, decorative objects and typical delicacies. A new feature this year: an evening show on Saturday until 10 pm.
Of course, the market is designed to appeal to all ages: children and families alike will be able to wander through the aisles and treat themselves to an unusual outing. Activities include workshops, shows and the unique atmosphere of an underground market. The stalls will feature a mix of local crafts: wooden objects, pottery, natural candles, handmade Christmas decorations and local delicacies. For an original gift or a delicacy to be savored on the spot, this underground event is ideal.
Just 2 hours by train from the capital, it’s the perfect end-of-year getaway to get away from it all, discover a troglodytic site, and fill your basket with gifts to put under the tree at the end of the month.
All in all, for those who want a Christmas with a difference, this market is a real nugget. Book your tickets early (online sales compulsory), and let us guide you through the bowels of Doué-en-Anjou for an extraordinary Christmas adventure!
📍Location: Marché de Noël de Doué-la-Fontaine – Arènes de Doué la Fontaine, Rue des Arènes, Doué-en-Anjou
📆 Dates: December 6 and 7, 2025