Christmas 2025 at Saint-Raphaël and Fréjus
the Christmas festivities in Saint-Raphaël will take place from December 6, 2025, to January 4, 2026.
As every year, the municipalities of Saint-Raphaël and Fréjus organize numerous festive events to keep the magic of Christmas alive. During this period, many families from all over France gather to enjoy these celebrations. What a joy for grandparents to share these magical moments and unforgettable memories with their children and grandchildren—moments that only the end-of-year holidays can create. As for visitors, they will not miss wandering along the seafront to explore the stalls of the Saint-Raphaël Christmas market, whose theme this year is “Traditional Family Christmas.”
The chalets of Saint-Raphaël’s Christmas market will be set up along Promenade de Lattre de Tassigny and will be open from 10:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. outside school holidays, and from 10:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. during school holidays, with late openings until 9:00 p.m. for special and occasional events.
This article was written on December 3, 2025.
Saturday, December 6, 2025 – The Lighting of Saint-Raphaël
The Christmas festivities will begin on Saturday, December 6, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. with the lighting of the city, thanks to the numerous Christmas decorations installed throughout Saint-Raphaël. A route starting at the Cultural Center will invite passersby to wander through the illuminated streets of the city, accompanied by a magical parade featuring 60 artists and musicians in festive costumes, jugglers, live musicians, and enchanting characters, all spreading the joy of Christmas music through the city center.
Once the parade reaches Notre-Dame Basilica, a sound and light show will illuminate the basilica.
At the end of the parade route, Jardin Bonaparte will be lit with a thousand sparkling lights, delighting both young and old, and a grand fireworks display will light up the night sky over Saint-Raphaël.
Once again, the city of the Archangel is determined to bring the magic of Christmas to children and adults alike.
The Grand Christmas Parade – Tuesday, December 23, Concluding with Fireworks
Departure of Santa Claus from the Beau Rivage parking lot at 6:00 p.m.
On December 23, starting at 6:00 p.m., the streets of Saint-Raphaël will welcome Santa Claus, followed by the Toy Parade, immersing spectators in a truly magical atmosphere. Jugglers, musicians, and dancers will accompany Santa Claus in this grand festive procession. Children and adults alike will be able to admire the illuminated floats, costumed performers, and the many activities planned along the parade route.
This event, now a must-see of the holiday season, promises to create unforgettable memories for the whole family. Children will have the chance to greet Santa Claus, while parents can enjoy the warm and friendly atmosphere filling the city.
To conclude this enchanting parade, a magnificent fireworks display will take place at 7:00 p.m., offering a sparkling show that will light up the night sky—a magical moment to share together in celebration of the Christmas spirit.
Provençal Christmas Nativity in Saint-Raphaël – December 11 at 7:00 p.m.
For over ten years, a magnificent Provençal nativity scene comes to life in the Cultural Center hall every Christmas. Highlighting the cultural and historical heritage of Saint-Raphaël, this intricately detailed scene has become a must-see attraction in the city. Each year, its inauguration by Frédéric Masquelier is a special moment to proudly celebrate Provençal roots and the traditions that shape Saint-Raphaël’s identity.
Join us on December 11 at 7:00 p.m. at the Cultural Center to discover this enchanting representation of a Provençal village, populated with charming characters and authentic landscapes. With hundreds of figurines and thousands of details, this display takes visitors on a journey from the Camargue to Seville, through Ancient Rome, and even to the edge of the desert. A living art form that delights both young and old, passing down a unique artisanal heritage to future generations.
The Christmas Trees of Saint-Raphaël
Victor Hugo Square Tree: Come decorate the tree at Victor Hugo Square on Saturday, December 6, from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Giant Tree at the Tourist Office
The giant tree makes its grand return, offered by the German town of Sankt Georgen, twinned with Saint-Raphaël for 53 years, symbolizing friendship and harmony between the two cities.
Illuminated Fishing Boats (Les Pointus):
At the Old Port, the timeless pointu boats will sparkle with lights, paying magical tribute to the maritime heritage.
Christmas Carousels:
To delight the youngest visitors, Place Coullet transforms into a winter village with carousels for children (up to 10 years old) and gourmet chalets offering sweet and savory treats. L’ARCOR will also host a variety of activities.
Hours: Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday (outside school holidays): 10:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Daily during school holidays and special evenings: 10:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
The Grand Gourmet Chalet:
Near the Ferris wheel, a large chalet will offer a selection of sweet and savory treats.
Esplanade Delayen: 2:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. outside school holidays,
2:00 p.m. to midnight during school holidays.
Jardin Bonaparte in Lights:
The Jardin Bonaparte will once again shine with thousands of lights, immersing visitors in the enchantment of Christmas. Open daily from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., from December 6 to January 11, it’s a magical detour not to be missed.
Free Covered Parking on Saturday Afternoons:
To support local businesses and allow visitors to enjoy the festive atmosphere, free parking will be available every Saturday from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. in Coullet, Bonaparte, and Lamartine parking lots. This complements the two hours of free parking in the city’s blue zones.
Christmas Events and Activities:
Wednesday, December 10, 2:00 – 6:00 p.m.:
At the train station shopping center, merchants will create a Christmas village with Santa Claus! Snacks will be offered.
Saturday, December 13 at 5:45 p.m.:
The Parish of Saint-Raphaël invites you to a live nativity, a musical and sung reenactment of the Nativity, followed by a guided tour of the Basilica. With costumes, scenery, and staging, children and adults will be transported to the iconic moments of Jesus’ birth in Bethlehem.
December 13 – January 3, Archaeological Museum:
This year, elves have prepared a surprise for Santa Claus’s birthday: the birthday candles are mysteriously missing! Solve the riddles throughout the museum and historic center to uncover the secret—Santa’s age!
Tuesday afternoon to Saturday: 9:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. and 2:00 – 5:00 p.m.
Closed: December 25 & 26, January 1 & 2, 2026
Info: 04 94 19 25 75 / musee@ville-saintraphael.fr
Tuesday, December 16 at 8:00 p.m., Palais des Congrès – “Christmas Together” Concert:
The Conservatory presents a festive concert with string orchestras, jazz ensemble, vocal group, and piano jazz, blending tradition, modernity, and emotion.
Free entry with reservation at the Cultural Center: 04 98 11 89 00 / billetterie@ville-saintraphael.fr
December 20 – January 4, Louis de Funès Museum – Treasure Hunt:
Children can search for the famous Louis d’Or of Don Salluste hidden in the museum, inspired by La Folie des Grandeurs, with a sweet surprise for young explorers.
Tuesday to Saturday: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Sunday: 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. / 2:00 – 5:00 p.m.
Closed: December 25 & 26, January 1, 2026
Info & reservations: museedefunes.fr / contact@museedefunes.fr / 04 98 11 25 80
December 20 – January 3, Christmas at the Mediathéque:
The Médiathèque offers a festive selection of novels, albums, comics, DVDs, and holiday films via the digital library. Enjoy a moment of reading or games, with elves spreading surprises around the Christmas trees, creating a magical experience for all ages.
The Saint-Raphaël Christmas Market – From December 6, 2025, to January 4, 2026
Let yourself be enchanted by the magic of the holidays as you once again discover the charming Christmas chalets by the seaside on the Promenade de Lattre de Tassigny, filling the waterfront with their delightful festive aromas. Mulled wine, crispy pretzels, candy apples, and roasted chestnuts — more than thirty stalls will invite you on a true wintertime gourmet journey. Between regional delicacies and artisanal creations, you’ll find delicious treasures and unique gift ideas for your loved ones.
A second gourmet market awaits you at Place Coullet, where local products will be in the spotlight. Join us every day on the seafront, at Place Coullet, or on the Esplanade Delayen at the foot of the Ferris wheel, where a large chalet will offer an irresistible selection of delicious treats.
What are the opening hours of the Saint-Raphaël Christmas Market?
The Saint-Raphaël Christmas Market will be open every day of the week from Saturday, December 6, 2025, to Sunday, January 4, 2026, inclusive. Opening hours are 10:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. outside school holidays. During school holidays, closing time is extended to 8:00 p.m. on weekdays, and to 9:00 p.m. during special events.
The Grand Saint-Raphaël Fireworks Display on December 31
December also means New Year’s Eve and the arrival of a new year! To celebrate the start of 2026, a festive and friendly evening awaits you at Bonaparte Garden on December 31. On the program: starting at 6:30 p.m., a DJ will set the mood with lively music, followed at 7:30 p.m. by a magnificent fireworks display that will illuminate the sky of Saint-Raphaël.
Meet us at 7:30 p.m. at Bonaparte Garden to enjoy the spectacular year-end fireworks show launched from the sea.
Christmas 2025 in Fréjus – from December 6, 2025, to January 5, 2026
This winter, Fréjus transforms into a true Christmas village, offering a wide range of activities for both young and old. On the program: an ice rink, a gourmet Christmas market to enjoy festive treats and discover original gift ideas, light mapping shows, a Disney parade, open-air cinema, and many other surprises. The highly anticipated grand opening evening kicks off this festive month in style.
The historic heart of the city lights up and resonates with holiday cheer. Over 300 decorations and illuminations create a magical atmosphere as night falls. Penguins, teddy bears, and 3D Santa Claus figures will delight the little ones and take adults back to their childhood.
There are numerous activities: a funfair at Place Agricola, Santa’s arrival, parades, and various family-friendly events. And because sharing is at the heart of local traditions, some must-see attractions return every year: the Provençal nativity scene at the Tourist Office, enriched with new locations, and the traditional Provençal figurine fair in the Riculphe Hall of the Town Hall.
In Fréjus, with its decorations, music, and activities, the Christmas spirit fills every street, promising a memorable holiday season!
Fréjus in the Age of Nativity Scenes
At the Fréjus Tourist Office, immerse yourself in the Christmas universe with the grand nativity scene representing the city as it once was. This reconstruction highlights iconic landmarks — the amphitheater, cathedral, and episcopal group — and brings traditional Provençal crafts to life. An authentic and animated scene invites both children and adults on a true journey back in time, at the heart of the holiday magic.
The Gourmet Christmas Market
In the historic center of Fréjus, the Christmas market is a true celebration of local flavors. Stretching from Place Formigé, where a stunning light mapping illuminates the Town Hall, to Place Clémenceau, in front of the Tourist Office, it offers two sectors full of discoveries. Among the chalets, producers and artisans offer cheeses, wines, sweets, and other regional specialties. Wander through the stalls and let yourself be enchanted by the authentic tastes of the region, all in a warm and festive atmosphere.
The Grand Parades
During the holidays, the streets of Fréjus come alive with several grand parades, including the spectacular Disney parade, which delights both young and old. Iconic characters parade in a magical atmosphere, spreading joy and wonder throughout their route in the city center. Music, colors, and smiles create a unique moment, perfect for sharing the magic of Christmas with the whole family.
Find accommodation in Saint Raphael for the 2025 Christmas holidays
If you’re looking for accommodation in Saint-Raphaël for the Christmas holidays in 2025, the Villa Giovanna located in the Valescure district near Agay, decorated for the year-end festivities, is available for rent from December 4, 2025, to January 31, 2026. It can welcome you to spend a magical Christmas 2023 with your family in Saint-Raphaël. For more information and to make a reservation, you can visit their website: Villa Giovanna. Enjoy your stay and have a wonderful Christmas holiday in Saint-Raphaël!
