In some of the communes on Réunion Island, as like in most of European towns, Christmas markets are held to enable the Réunionese to find Christmas gifts within a festive atmosphere. Here is an array of Christmas markets across the island.     

From jewels to wooden toys, leather products, perfumes, food and yesteryear delicacies...Here are a few ideas of presents that the Réunionese can find in the different Christmas markets.  A number of communes on the island do not escape from this tradition that originated in Alsace and in Germany and which dates back to the sixteenth century.        

Modeled on the image of the most famous French Christmas market, particularly the one in Strasbourg, the Reunionese markets are hosted in traditional wooden chalets.  But, Réunion Island does not hesitate to bring out a small personal touch.  Whilst the chalets in mainland France or in other European countries keep their natural wood colour, the chalets across the island are pink, blue or yellow in colour.       

One'll find objects exhibited under the same themes across the different markets: toys, gastronomy and handicrafts.  The exhibitors allow the public to find Christmas gifts within a festive atmosphere.  Beyond the purely commercial aspect, the Christmas markets remain a family attraction where children will enjoy strolling through the bright chalets.  Some Christmas markets, such as the one in Saint-Denis or in Saint-Pierre propose several activities throughout the week leading up to Christmas.    

Here is a list of the Christmas markets across the island.