For an enchanting Christmas in the Loire Valley, let yourself be seduced by a selection of unique and memorable festive activities. From animal encounters under the illuminations at Beauval ZooParc to light shows at the Château de Beaugency and underground tastings at Troglo Degusto, every moment is an opportunity to experience the magic of Christmas in a different way. Browse through this list of experiences that will make the eyes of young and old shine, and immerse yourself in the festive spirit of the Loire Valley!
Christmas at the Beauval zooparc
Experience a magical Christmas at ZooParc de Beauval! From the end of November, the park is transformed with illuminations and activities for all the family. Stroll through the illuminated alleys to discover the animals in a unique nocturnal atmosphere. Take a gourmet break, meet Father Christmas, take part in treasure hunts, and take a gondola ride over the park for a magical view. Finally, enjoy a festive buffet under the Equatorial Dome, an incredible place where over 200 tropical species live.
To prolong the magic, stay in one of the ZooParc’s hotels: head for Bali, China or Africa… for a moment of relaxation and a change of scenery guaranteed.
The Commanderie d’Arville celebrates Christmas
During the Christmas holidays, the Commanderie d’Arville is transformed into a fairytale setting. Festive decorations, illuminations and Christmas trees adorn the historic site, immersing visitors in the spirit of the festive season.
A varied programme of events is on offer for young and old alike. You can take part in the gourmet game ‘Léandre, le Maître Pâtissier’, enjoy family workshops, explore the site during torch-lit tours or solve the mystery of the investigation game ‘Le secret de la Commanderie’.
Christmas at Troglo Degusto
Christmas is coming underground at Troglo Degusto in Bourré with the ‘Lights Under the Earth’ event. At a depth of 50 metres, discover the magic of Christmas through a guided tour of galleries magnificently decorated for the occasion. More than 3,000 LEDs will illuminate the site, creating a unique atmosphere for celebrating the festive season with the whole family.
After the tour, you can enjoy a tasting of the estate’s wines accompanied by local produce, all lit up by lanterns. For children, grape juice will be available so that everyone can share in this festive moment.
Christmas workshops at Max Vauché
This festive season, discover gourmet workshops for young and old! As a family, with friends or with your children, learn how to create your own Christmas treats. Children can have fun making lollipops, coated marshmallows and mini-mendiants. For older children, there are special Christmas log and macaroon workshops to learn the secrets of these iconic desserts. Leave with your own creations and delicious souvenirs to celebrate Christmas in the most delicious way!
Santa’s Village in Montbazon
Discover Santa’s Village at Montbazon Fortress, from 25 November 2023 to 7 January 2024. The authentic Father Christmas and his elves welcome you in an enchanting setting, illuminated by thousands of lights.
Every weekend until 15 December and every day during the school holidays (except 25 December), enjoy the festive atmosphere. There’s an ice rink, creative workshops, storytelling and shows to delight young and old alike!
Treat yourself to Christmas specialities in the stalls, such as mulled wine and crêpes, and find pretty decorations in the shop. It’s a great way to celebrate Christmas!
Open cellars and Christmas market in Valmer
Take part in the open cellars and Christmas market at Château de Valmer. Discover the 16th-century troglodytic cellars, explore the wine storehouses usually closed to the public and visit Valmer’s famous gardens.
Lovers of local produce and crafts will be able to sample the products of the artisans present at the market. On the programme: guided tours of the cellars with Jean de Saint Venant, tasting and sale of Château de Valmer wines (AOC Vouvray and AOC Touraine Rosé), free access to the gardens, the troglodytic chapel and the historic park, and on-site catering. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the magic of Christmas!
Christmas lights at the Château de Beaugency
Three magical evenings await you at the Château de Beaugency to celebrate the Christmas Lights! Immerse yourself in a glittering world where every corner of the château is illuminated with enchanting light shows, transforming the premises into a magical setting. On the programme: captivating night-time shows, a walk through the reinvented garden, and surprises for young and old. On 21 and 22 December, a puppet show will fascinate all ages, followed by a special event on 23 December in the Chapel, with a not-to-be-missed children’s dance party!
Round off your visit with a stroll through the mini Christmas market, where you can pick up some of the creations of local artisans.
The Christmas Circus in Saint-Jean-de-Braye
Immerse yourself in the magic of the Alexis & Anargul Gruss Christmas Circus! Once again this year, experience a unique moment under the heated big top, where international artists, acrobats and musicians transport you into a magical world. During the 1h30 to 2h show, marvel at the exceptional acts, specially designed to celebrate the festive season. After the interval, young and old alike will be surprised by the appearance of Father Christmas himself!
Express Santa
Embark on an unforgettable Christmas aboard Santa’s Train! On Saturday 14 December, let yourself be transported into the magic of the festive season with a journey like no other. Santa and his elves invite you on a unique journey aboard a historic train, pulled by steam locomotive 141.R.840. Departure from Les Aubrais (Orléans), with festive stops in La Ferté St-Aubin, Lamotte-Beuvron, Salbris and Vierzon, all the way to Bourges.
The day’s programme includes games, face painting, photo opportunities with Father Christmas and hot chocolates. Take advantage of the stopover in Bourges to explore the Christmas market, or extend the adventure to Nevers. Book now for an extraordinary experience that will amaze the whole family!
The national palace celebrates Christmas
This December, immerse yourself in the enchantment of cabaret with the new Christmas show at the National Palace in Vierzon! Let yourself be carried away by the enchanting story of Violette et la Clef des Merveilles, in which a young explorer discovers an enchanted village and a magic key… only to lose it! Alongside mysterious companions, she embarks on a quest full of surprises to find the key and reveal the wonders of this enchanted Christmas. At the end of the show, an unforgettable moment with Father Christmas awaits you!
And on Christmas Eve, enjoy a festive dinner and a unique show for the whole family! From 7pm, enjoy a warm welcome, followed by a lively dinner and the ONIRIA revue, which will transport you into the world of cabaret until midnight. A memorable New Year’s Eve in the heart of Christmas magic!
Workshops and Christmas tales at Château de Bouges
Get ready for the festive season with a touch of plant magic at Château de Bouges, thanks to the Christmas workshops run by Jardin d’Ombres and Fabrice Ferin. From 16 November, give free rein to your creativity: create a winter garden, decorate your windows in a magical way, or make a plant candleholder to light up your Christmas evenings. You’ll also learn how to create a hanging Christmas bouquet for your doors, a revisited Advent wreath, or a natural decoration for your fireplace or tables. It’s an inspiring programme to make your home even more beautiful this festive season!
Christmas at the Château
de Senonches
Every year, the Château-Musée lights up for Christmas at the Château. Discover La Fabrique du Père Noël, a craft market featuring local delicacies and creations. On the programme: decoration workshop, escape game, horse-drawn carriage rides, dog-sleigh christenings, concert, photos with Father Christmas (3pm-4.30pm), face painting, mulled wine and competition prizes. Didier’s trombinotron will also be on hand to entertain you. Reservations are required for some activities. Catering and drinks on site to complete the festive atmosphere!
