aixcentric

13^th: Tomorrow is the date for the annual Scandinavian Christmas service at the Cathedral. I have never been in Aix to go to this but everyone tells me it is very beautiful and moving. It celebrates the feast of Santa Lucia with Scandinavian girls in national costume with candles in their head-dresses. Begins at 18:00 with a procession afterwards down to the Mairie for a glass of hot glogg.

14^th-15^th: Fete de l’Huile d’Olive de Aix-en-Provence: Opportunity to taste this year’s olive oils and buy olives, tapenade,biscuits and olive wood items for the Christmas table. Next to the Office de Tourisme. 9-19:00 hrs.

14^th: Fontaine aux Jouets. Collection of new toys for local kids in need. The leaflet calls for Solidarity and Generosity…so dig out those unwanted jouets! 14-18:00hrs. Place de l’Hotel de Ville.

15^th: La Bravade Calendale: Traditional Provencal celebrations with 200 participants – dancing and music from groups from Aix, Arels, Barjols, Nice….and Italy! 11:00hrs Place de l’Hotel de Ville and 14:30 Cours Mirabeau.  Concert de Noel at the Cathedral. Organ recital and chamber orchestra. 20€. 16:30hrs.

16^th: Marché des 13 Desserts. Over 40 local artisans and agriculteurs offer the ingredients for a traditional Christmas Eve. Next to Office de Tourisme. Until December 24^th.