Christmas in Sélestat: Let the Advent Begin

In the heart of the humanist town of Sélestat, the tradition of the Christmas tree is carefully preserved thanks to the oldest known written mention in the world, dating back to 1521. Since then, the city has honored the fir tree, an essential symbol of the winter season and an ambassador of its cultural heritage.

Placed at the foot of houses and squares, the Christmas tree stands as the majestic host of the town, adorned with its finest decorations and surrounded by an enchanting atmosphere blending luminous garlands, bredele cookies, and the delicate scent of fir. As the days shorten and darkness falls, traditions come alive: welcome and Advent wreaths decorate homes, while the Advent calendar marks the countdown to Christmas.

From November 20 to December 27, Sélestat invites young and old to immerse themselves in this preparatory period, where ancestral heritage meets contemporary touches to celebrate the magic of the season.