Bel Hiver 2026: Saint-Denis Christmas market and ice rink at the foot of the basilica

Bel Hiver is the Christmas market run by the town of Saint-Denis, just north of Paris. It returns from Friday 11 December 2026 to Sunday 3 January 2027, on the square in front of the basilica (the burial place of the kings of France) and on place Victor-Hugo, by the town hall. Entry is free.

You get the wooden chalets of a Christmas market plus a craft fair of local makers and fair-trade stalls: around a hundred stands over nearly 10,000 m², according to the town's call for exhibitors. The town promises crêpes, waffles, spiced biscuits and hot drinks.

The rest is aimed at families: an ice rink on the square, a petting farm, a carousel, concerts and Christmas choirs. The 2026 show programme isn't out yet. Last year the rink cost €2 with online booking on the town website, according to Familinparis, so check this year's terms before you go.

Bel Hiver runs in two parts: 11 to 22 December 2026, then 24 December to 3 January 2027 (closed on 23 December). In the first part it opens noon–8pm on weekdays and 10am–8pm at weekends; hours for the second part haven't been announced. Take Metro line 13 to Basilique de Saint-Denis, or tram T1.