This festive season, discover the magic of Christmas with Geneva Tourism, and be captivated by Europe's leading city break destination. Whether looking for a festive-packed family trip or a fairytale Christmas market, Geneva offers a range of activities that promise to surprise and delight.

Explore enchanting Christmas markets…

From 16 November to 24 December, Geneva's beautiful Quai du Mont Blanc gardens transform into the magical Quai du Mont Blanc Christmas Market. Set against the stunning backdrop of Lake Geneva, the market is framed by the iconic Jet d'Eau and the snow-capped Alps.

Take a stroll through the dazzling Christmas lights along the shore and peruse the wooden chalets which bring together the very best local artisans, restaurateurs and designers. With stalls changing weekly, the market's plethora of unique pieces make treating loved ones a breeze this festive season.

With over 30 restaurants serving seasonal dishes available throughout the market, guests can experience a culinary journey from traditional delicacies to local street food. For those seeking tradition, the now famous Chalet Fondue serves local wines and cheese as well as heartwarming fondue, while guests can escape the cold and admire panoramic views of Lake Geneva. The Christmas Pub offers a casual and relaxed atmosphere, with a range of aperitifs available and regular DJ evenings taking place every Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 7.30pm to late.

Children will be entertained for hours with the range of activities on offer, including rides on the old carousels in the children's village and visits to the children's yurt to enjoy games, crafts, storytelling and facepainting.

Transport back in time at the Fête de l'Escalade…

Experience an age-old local Genevan tradition with the annual Fête de l'Escalade from 08 to 10 December. Throughout the weekend, the city is transported back to 1602 as guests can relive the victory against invading French forces with action-filled celebrations. Enjoy colourful processions, period costumes, musket firings and battle re-enactment as well as well-loved traditions including the smashing of a chocolate 'cauldron' filled with marzipan treats including chocolate marmite.

Brave the cold and get outdoors this Christmas…

On 02 and 03 December, various races will be taking as part of the popular Course de l'Escalade race, which is returning for its 45th year in Geneva's old town. With a range of races available to enter, including juniors, a walking course and races tailored to competitive runners there are options to accommodate all abilities while exploring the city's old town. Applicants can register before 13 November to be in the chance to win a range of exciting festive prizes.

Not for the faint-hearted, the Christmas Cup is a festive-filled two-day annual cold-water swim in the Bay of Geneva. Take the plunge and register for the Cup's 85th Anniversary on 16 and 17 December, where the event is set to welcome over 4,000 attendees. With two race categories, including the 500m long-distance swim and the 100m traditional, races can either be timed or casual with warm drinks and festive merriment available for those who prefer to watch from the sidelines.

Discover the city this Christmas with the Geneva City Pass…

For travellers who want to mix culture with festive traditions this Christmas, Geneva Tourism's City Pass can be purchased for 24, 48 or 72 hours, and grants visitors access to over 60 of the city's activities and museums on a free-of-charge or discounted basis - perfect if the Fête de l'Escalade inspires budding historians. The passes also allow free access to the city's public transport network, which allows visitors to see the best of the 20.5km Course de l'Escalade race. 

For more information on Christmas in Geneva or to purchase a City Pass, please visit the Geneva Tourism website.

-ENDS-

For more information, please contact:   

The Communication Group    

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London     

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Email: geneva@thecommunicationgroup.co.uk