As Christmas approaches, one of the main attractions for anyone living in the Lausanne area looks forward to is Bô Noël. Bô Noël is Lausanne’s Christmas market. It is one of the most popular events and unique events in the city. It is set in the city centre with the largest market set in St. François. Other themed markets scattered across the area in Bel-Air, L’Esplanade du Flon, Place Pépinet etc. They are within walking distance of each other and entrance is free. You get to enjoy a lot of attractions such as the Ferris wheel and ice skating rink at the heart of the Flon; there are about six markets this year including the one in St.François. There is something for everyone whether you enjoy Christmas or not. As I mentioned, it is the most unique event in the city.
There is no best time to go to the Christmas market as there is always something different happening across the city. Most people with families go in the morning or afternoon there is a designated market for little children. However, by the evening, it’s more magical as the lights are on and depending on where you are, you’ll be able to see the Festival of Lights. This is my third year of going so it is an atmosphere that I enjoy despite it being cold. It’s also a great social setting to meet up with friends and discover local artisans.
It has been open since 17th November and usually gets really busy by the first week of December. It lasts until 31st December where they hold their famous silent disco. If you don’t want to get stuck in the Christmas rush, you can always go after Christmas. That’s what I did last year and there was still a lot to do, eat and enjoy. Open times are between 12pm to 11pm on Mondays to Saturdays. On Sundays, 12pm to 9pm. During the Nocturnes (December 17 to December 23), it’s open from 12pm to 8pm. On Christmas Eve, it’s open from 12pm to 5pm and then closed on Christmas Day.
Getting To The Christmas Market
As it is located in the middle of the city centre, you have various options depending on where you are located. However, I suggest taking public transport as I don’t think you’ll find a suitable parking spot especially as it starts to get busy from beginning of December. Usually, I take the M1 to Lausanne-Flon and then walk to all the various markets. A lot of public transports such as the buses, M2 and LEB stop at Lausanne Flon. If you are coming from a different city, hop on a train to Lausanne Gare. Then hop onto the M2 towards Croisettes and get off the next stop.
If you want to avoid the crowds, Sunday afternoons are not as busy as weekdays and Saturdays.
What To Wear at A Christmas Market
Switzerland is cold AF! With Lausanne being a city of hills, you are going to feel the cold. When I say layers, I mean layers on layers. Don’t let the sun fool at you. Looking cute while staying warm is a flex, but don’t go exposing yourself and catching a cold. Trust me, it’s not worth it. I wear turtlenecks until it’s summer. I’d recommend wearing a jumper, a coat, a scarf, a pair of comfortable shoes as you will be walking a lot.
I always carry a pair of gloves in bag or my coat pocket so I can enjoy myself without feeling cold. Although there are marquees and wooden shacks to stay in, it’s a lot of outdoor space with the wind blowing freely. I get cold easily. I cannot come and die for the cold. It’s not possible. Be a furnace or an ice box – I opt for the former.
What To Do At The Christmas Market
What to do? Oh my gosh, there is so much to do at the Christmas market. I have never finished everything in one visit. It’s just not possible.
There’s a Ferris wheel, the ice skating rink in the Flon district, carriage rides through the city, an escape game in a chalet, pony rides for children, fondue in a horse-drawn carriage. Then on New Year’s Eve, there is the silent party. You don’t have to do these things, but if you are visiting for the first time, take a chance and do what the locals do. I can’t ice skate and yet I still do it for fun. There are also a lot of local artisans selling sustainable jewellery, clothing and so many unique things for gifts and for the home.
Most places will accept credit/debits card for the attractions but bring some cash along with you for the places that don’t. I have been able to pay with TWINT for a few stands but I recommend coming prepared with options.
Food & Drinks
Now we are talking. Saving the best to last. My favourite activity outside of training is to eat and drink without care.
To start, there are drinkable water fountains everywhere as Switzerland is just that type of country. You’ll be able to refill your water bottle as you go about your day. All the stalls sell water, the pop up bars, restaurants and hotels taking part in the festivities will also have a way for you to get water. Hydration is key.
Lastly, there are hot drinks such as mulled wine, hot chocolates, teas, coffees and other non-alcoholic beverages! They can’t let us freeze.
Foodies Assemble!
Let’s talk about food, baby! I don’t even know where to start as there are so many options. Every two stalls that you pass, you will find food. The big marquees and shacks by the cathedral, by Bel-Air, outside the Lausanne-Flon metro and the one located by Place de l’Europe all have seated areas to eat food. There are multiple stalls in there that sell a variety of foods.
Cheese Dishes
L’igloo du terroir vaudois: Fondue is a dish to find in the Christmas market. They will most likely have the classic version ‘moitié-moitié’. It is melted in a pan eaten with breads and surrounded with friends. It’s not really a dish that you see people eating by themselves. There are also charcuterie boards with cheese and salami.
Seafood
Bô Pêcheur: If you are a lover of seafood, the Bô Noël Christmas market has you covered. They have oysters, salmon, various foods from the sea, crustaceans such as crabs, lobsters, shrimps etc.
Sweet Specialities
Saving the real reason I enjoy eating my way across Christmas market, the sweet stuff. I’m usually more of a savoury person but my sweet tooth suddenly activates during the festive season. What are you going to find? I’ll tell you what you are going to find. Waffles, crepes, churros, roasted chestnuts, nougat and Belgian waffles (not the same as regular waffles). Doughnuts, empanadas, Trdelnik (chimney cakes) and many more.
Bô Noël really is a Christmas-themed attraction park filled with so much life and joy.
Hanging at Bô Noël is a lovely opportunity to do with family and friends as an afterwork activity or a weekend activity. It’s just one of those places where everyone is happy and positive. I associate the Swiss as a happy group of people and you can see that aura come to life more during this season. It’s so festive and it has become a tradition for me to go there. As mentioned, it is on until 31st December, so what are you waiting for? Plan your visit now!
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Until next time,
Folakemi
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