Santo from Provence in your Christmas crib. As the year-end celebrations approach, many French people head to the Provençal markets, where the tradition of santons, worn and refreshed by passionate artisans, continues to fascinate the French.
The santons are the figures that make up the Nativity scene that represents the birth of Jesus in the stable. Characters quoted in the Bible are present. tradition added small figures representing all crafts, bearers of offerings, or animals. From Bouches-du-Rhône to Var, our selection of colorful markets.
Santons fair in Marseille (Bouche-du-Rhone), the oldest
It is the oldest santo fair in Provence and it is with pride that Marseille, the capital of santo, will blow out the 220 candles of its ancestral event in 2022. Since 1803, Marseille’s Foire aux Santons has honored the know-how of Santon artisans from across the region, thus perpetuating a tradition passed down from generation to generation. For this anniversary edition, Marcel invites young and old to discover 26 Santos enthusiasts, workshops, donkey rides and other musical entertainment.
When? From 19 November to 31 December 2022, from 10 am to 7 pm and to 9 pm every Saturday and Sunday. Admission is FREE.
Additional information: santons-fair-in-marseille.fr:
Our beloved. if you’re passing by during the opening of the event, don’t hesitate to pass by the Saint-Ferréol les Augustins church, where a Provençal Mass awaits you, followed by a costumed parade accompanied by folk groups in the Old Port.
Where? Quai du Port, Old Port, 2nd arrondissement.
Santo fair in Fréjus (Var), in the purest Provençal tradition
Throughout the year, Fréjus seeks to promote craftsmanship and its range of crafts. Therefore, it is quite natural that December has its santons fair. For its 35th edition, it welcomes 17 Santos from all over Provence, thus promoting the craftsmanship of the region’s best. Traditionally made and painted by hand, santons wear their most beautiful costumes to amaze visitors. For entertainment, you will be welcomed to the sound of drummers and traditional Provençal costumes.
When? From December 3 to 21, 2022, from 10:00 to 12:00 and 14:00 to 19:00, every day except Monday morning. Opening Ceremony: Saturday, December 3, 6 p.m. Admission is FREE.
Our beloved. Adjacent to the event, the cloister of the Cathedral of Frejus is an exceptional architectural site in the heart of Saint-Leonce Cathedral. You will be able to admire sublime paintings revealing scenes of everyday life, religious imagery, as well as remarkable paintings of fantastic animals.
Where? Fréjus Town Hall, Salle Riculphe, place Camille Formigé.
Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume (Var) Santon fair, flag bearer of crafts
A must-see and preserved site, the Saint-Baum massif has an exceptional natural and cultural heritage. Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume, a few days before Christmas, hosts the largest Santons fair in the Var with its 120 exhibitors. In a mysterious and attractive setting, you can admire the delicate work of santon masters, complete your nativity scene, rediscover traditional Provence or discover unique objects to offer to your loved ones.
When? From November 18 to 20, 2022, the entrance is free.
Our beloved. a visit to the Basilica of Sainte-Marie-Madeleine, which is considered the largest Gothic building in Provence and the third tomb of Christianity.
Where? Jardin de l’Enclos, 42 Boulevard Rey, 83470 Saint-Maximin-la-Sainte-Baume.
The Salon des Santonniers de Grimaud (Var), remarkable and original works
In Grimaud, Bay Saint-Tropez, we are hosting the third edition of Salon Santonier. It has become a key event for visitors who are happy to stroll and meet talented artisans. While some are looking for traditional Provençal figurines, others are waiting for key figures from the south, with the Gendarmerie de Saint-Tropez or Fernandel, as is the case here. Be aware, there is something for everyone and that is what makes the event so special. Organized by the association “Les Amis de la Crèche” and the regionally renowned santon maker Maxime Codou, you will also be captivated by his new giant nativity scene and his thousands of santons displayed in the Saint-Jean chapel. At La Garde-Freinet from December 3, 2022 to February 5, 2023. A trip to Provence in the heart of nature with respect for man and his environment.
When? From October 22 to 30, 2022. On weekdays from 14:00 to 18:00, on Saturdays and Sundays from 10:00 to 12:00 and from 14:00 to 18:00. Admission is FREE.
Our beloved. take the time to climb the pretty alleys of the village and after a little effort discover the breathtaking view from Grimaud Castle. At sunset, the location is ideal for viewing the Bay of Saint-Tropez.
Where? Room Beausoleil, 850 Route Nationale, 83310 Grimaud.
Santon fair in Aix-en-Provence (Bouche-du-Rhone), santon know-how excellence
From the end of November, the city of a thousand fountains wears its clothes of light. Residents and tourists of Pays d’Aix are delighted to discover end-of-year celebrations as well as wonderful traditional nativity scenes. The traditional santons fair is then an opportunity to fully enter into what is called the magic of Christmas.
When? From November 28 to December 31, 2022, the entrance is free.
Our beloved. Maison Fouque, where the art of santon has been passionately passed down for four generations. Unique and family knowledge in a typical Provençal house in the heart of Aix-en-Provence. Workshop, exhibitions and the opportunity to attend the preparation of new models of santons.
Where? Place de la Rotonde, Espace Cézanne, 13290 Aix-en-Provence.
Santons Festival in Pays d’Aubagne (Bouches-du-Rhône), festive spirit at the heart of traditions
In Oban, in the lands of Pagnol, santon makers and potters present their latest creations during two annual meetings, one in the summer and the other at the end of the year. From mid-November to the end of December, we especially like this Santon festival, which enchants young and old alike. Many events invite to their festivities, including a panoramic Christmas scene that is worth the trip.
When? From November 19 to December 31, 2022, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Admission is FREE.
Our beloved. It’s all the splendor of the south presented in a village of santons in Provence. We discover 19 villages and 3,000 santos staged, representing traditional Provençal life to perfection. A great showcase for artisans, potters and ceramics. To go further, Le Petit Monde de Pagnol Museum presents 200 santos that faithfully tell the story of the life of a country child.
Where? Course Marshall Foch, 13400 Aubagne.
Source: Le Figaro
