La Garde: Les Hivernales celebrate 25 years with an Alsace theme

As autumn sets in, La Garde is already looking forward to the magic of the holiday season with the return of its flagship event, Les Hivernales, from November 20 to December 27.

This edition promises to be exceptional: it marks the 25th anniversary of what has become one of the most beautiful Christmas villages in Provence. To celebrate this quarter-century, the Municipalité promises immersion in an atmosphere inspired by Alsace.

In the colors of Alsace

For this anniversary edition, the Ville has chosen to transport its visitors to the heart of Alsatian traditions. The promise is one of a "real change of scenery" thanks to warm and magical decorations.

The atmosphere of the famous Christmas markets of Eastern France will be recreated to delight young and old for more than a month. The holiday spirit, combining tradition and conviviality, will be there to make this 25th anniversary a memorable moment.

Christmas Village

The transformation of the town center has already begun, and preparations are in full swing to metamorphose La Garde. Wooden chalets, emblematic of Christmas markets, have already taken over the place de la République.

The installation of decorations took place from November 7 to 11 near the Hôtel de Ville, the Office de tourisme, as well as between the chalets.

The highlight of these preparations took place on November 12 with the assembly of the large Christmas tree, which sits at the center of the setup. Right after, teams proceeded with installing the light garlands.

Official launch

The kickoff of this 25th edition takes place on Friday, November 20 at 6:30 p.m.

The public is invited to the launch of the festivities by Hélène Arnaud-Bill, mayor of La Garde and vice-president of the Métropole Toulon Provence Méditerranée. She will be alongside Jean-Louis Masson, president of the Département and first deputy, Martine Blanc, deputy for events, Sébastien Alba, advisor for animations, and the entire Conseil municipal.