I am thrilled to feature a wonderful Christmas Market in Coussac-Bonneval near the city of Limoges in France. I met the Marquis and Marquise de Bonneval at a pool party in upstate New York several years ago. Their cousin was a classmate of mine in Brazil. But that’s a story for another day. The family has lived in the Château de Bonneval for over 1000 years. Last year, they hosted their inaugural holiday market, and it was such a success that they are doing it again in 2015! Read on:
The Château de Bonneval outside Limoges in France is hosting a holiday market!
Geraud and Marta de Bonneval
November 25, 2015, Coussac-Bonneval – M. le Marquis and Mdm. la Marquise de Bonneval are delighted to announce the 2nd Grand Christmas Market 2015 on Saturday 19th December, starting at 2 pm.
Following the success of the inaugural Grand Christmas Market in 2014, this 2nd Grand Christmas Market 2015 will be held on the grounds and within the courtyard of the Château de Bonneval. It has been organised in conjunction with the Mairie of Coussac-Bonneval and trade associations from across the Limousin.
The event will enable visitors to enjoy a unique Christmas experience, in the festive setting of the château grounds, and against the dramatic backdrop of the illuminated Château itself.
An outstanding assembly of market stalls offering interesting and distinctive Christmas gifts for family and friends, home and kitchen is being provided by purveyors and makers from across the Region. Each has been individually invited to attend the Grand Christmas Market 2015 because of their reputation for the high quality of the products and the services they provide.
Noël Strawberries at the Chateâu de Bonneval Marché de Noël
Visitors can also enjoy a wide selection of delicious seasonal savory and sweet dishes and refreshments, presented by local chefs and wine merchants. In particular, they will be able to enjoy the launch of the Château de Bonneval Christmas Ale; an artisan beer especially provided by the Michard Brewery of Limoges. These treats can be tasted immediately, adding to the overall festive spirit; or can be taken home to be eaten later, at ones leisure.
Entertainment will include: the lighting of the great Bonneval Christmas tree; carol signing around the tree with several local choirs, including the Connect Choir; a flame-lit procession; and of course, the arrival of Father Christmas.
M. le Marquis and Mdm. la Marquise initiated the Grand Christmas Market 2014 part of a new and innovative range of events to be held at the Château de Bonneval and in its grounds. As intended,the Grand Christmas Market itself, has become a much-anticipated annual fixture on the local calendar of winter events.
About Château de Bonneval
Château de Bonneval is one of the great and historic houses of the Limousin. It is unique in that it has been the private home of the Bonneval family since the 11th century and remains so, to this day – “1000 years and still going strong!” Château de Bonneval’s position as a significant heritage and visitor destination was recognised by being chosen to be a finalist in the Monument Prefere des Francais 2014. Conducted visits are arranged for the public between March and October each year. More detailed information is available at www.chateaudebonneval.com.
Follow the château on Facebook too! (All photos courtesy of the Château de Bonneval.)
Events at the Château Bonneval Holiday Market December 19, 2015
Holiday wreaths and decor at the Marché de Noël
Of course there is cheese at the Château Bonneval Holiday Market!
AJ Vintage Collections at the 2014 Marché de Noël, Château de Bonneval, France
Singers entertain the shoppers inside the château courtyard
Pappenheim Beers at the Château Bonneval Holiday Market
Children playing near the Château Bonneval Marché de Noël
Traditional Sweets at the Children playing near the Château Bonneval Marché de Noël
Children playing near the Château Bonneval Marché de Noël
Mr. & Mme. Le Roy have traditional wine tasting honors
Toys from Au Petit Pois at the Marché de Noël
Christmas Tree Decorating Contest
Mon Banana Chocolatier is bringing bonbons to the Château Bonneval Holiday Market
Decorative items that will be available at the 2015 holiday market
Saveurs de L’Ocean are bringing fresh oysters to the château
Boulangerie Bourdet’s traditional sweet holiday masterpieces, with champagne of course
Holiday Decorations at the 2015 Château de Bonneval Christmas Market
Candle Light Procession at the Château de Bonneval
Nighttime at the Marché de Noël at the Château de Bonneval