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Maillezais. As a region, over the centuries, the Vendée has been invaded by more or less everyone from Vikings to Arabs, so it’s perhaps no surprise that come Christmas the shadows of what was once a thriving cathedral are lit up by the warmth of a very special Arabian Christmas market.
For 3 days in mid-December the Abbey is transformed into a place full of Eastern charm, mystery and delight with Bedouin tents, street performers, artisans, palm trees and market stalls all bathed in an exotic combination of fractured lights and shadows from the remains of the Abbey. Meander amongst camels, traders, fire eaters and fine Arabesque horseman displaying their skills and enjoy a special meal in the vaulted salt cellars of the Abbey. This is a Christmas market that will transport you back in time to the sandy markets of the East.
The Souk Christmas market runs from the 12 -14th December 2014 and you’ll find Maillezais just south of Fontenay le Comte and north-west of Niort. There’s more information about the Abbey at www.abbayes.vendee.fr
Puy du Fou and their mysterious story of Christmas
Puy du Fou is a unique and frankly amazing French experience. Best described as a historical theme park, they do re-enactments, displays and special effects on a grand and epic scale and Christmas is no exception.
The main Christmas event is staged in the Grand Carousel and this year is titled “The mystery of Christmas”. It’s described as the story of Egyptian Pharaohs, Roman conquests and ostentatious and exotic dancing displays by the ancient sorcerers of the East and is all set to be an extraordinary extravaganza.
Of course that’s not the only part of the Puy du Fou Christmas experience. We’re also promised nativity ice sculptures as well the snowy and imaginary world of the water fountains and a renaissance chateau with paintings that come to life, mirrors that quietly watch you and haunted chambers. And then of course, there’s a 1900s market town and the 18th century village with its giant nativity scene and skilled craftsman, all with tempting Christmas delights such as roasted chestnuts and mulled wine to really evoke the spirit of Christmas.
You need to book
The main event lasts 1 hour 20 minutes and runs from the 29th November until the 23rd December. Tickets are 22€ for adults and 13.50€ for children between 5 and 13 yrs and you need to book in advance. You’ll find Puy du Fou well signed just off the A87 (junction 29) and there is lots more information on their website www.puydufou.com .