The illuminations are going up in town despite the ‘confinement’ which prevents people venturing out more than one kilometre from home for the whole of November. But what are the plans for the children’s rides and the markets? This is the current status.
Christmas Market – ‘Suspendu’ – decision end of month
Due to the uncertainty surrounding the spread of the coronavirus, most plans are ‘suspendus’ rather than ‘annulés’. So until there is further governmental guidance, no chalets will be going up in the cours Mirabeau (they opened on 20th November last year) nor will we see the colourful children’s carousels around the Rotonde (in action from16th Nov in 2019).
The annual Twin Towns market, diaried for 2-6th December, is OFF, unsurprising as the stall-holders have to travel from across Europe and north Africa with all their goods to display at a market which takes place in a usually-very-busy set of marquees.
The town Christmas tree will still be going up in the Place des Precheurs early December. But if the Christmas market doesn’t go ahead, the tree will be placed at the top of the cours Mirabeau.
Carrying on with the illuminations is costing 241,600 euros, a controversial spend. Is it worth it with virtually no-one shopping and cafés closed? Or should we be salvaging whatever we can of the Christmas spirit and make the town look as beautiful as possible? We can only wait and see.
aixcentric 
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