Your winter arts and culture hit list

Nothing compares to Paris at Christmastime and, just beyond the City of Lights, La Vallée Village invites you into its enchanting winter wonderland. Adorned with dazzling decorations and serenaded by a live pianist playing festive melodies, the Village features a mesmerising Christmas installation by acclaimed French artist Cyril Lancelin, promising an unforgettable seasonal escape. Families will find something for everyone, with art and fashion design workshops for young guests hosted by Les Ateliers de Macha. This year, La Vallée Village is thrilled to partner with five-star Le Grand Hôtel Courchevel, presenting a charming pop-up that features curated gifts and local artisanal crafts – perfect for adding a touch of French elegance to your celebrations.

Maasmechelen Village sparkles this season with a delightful blend of art and festive charm. Stroll beneath a magnificent ten-metre Christmas tree and marvel at Santa’s sleigh, both adorned with vibrant florals by Antwerp’s renowned floral artist Raf Verwimp – expect lush greens, lavish gold accents and natural decorations like moss and pinecones. Nearby, the iconic six-metre Manneken Pis receives a whimsical makeover by Dutch conceptual artist Pixie Pravda, adding a playful touch to the Village. Seek out unique gifts at the Petit Pourri pop-up, offering Belgian-inspired wall art and letterpress prints and add a personal flourish at the gift-wrapping station, where proceeds support DO GOOD, The Bicester Collection Villages’ charity initiative.

Step into the pages of ‘A storybook Christmas’ at Bicester Village, where festive charm unfolds across six experience-filled chapters – from thoughtfully curated gifts to indulgent culinary moments. This year’s highlights include the Village Workshop, featuring custom greeting cards and wrapping paper by London-based illustrator Coralie Bickford-Smith, known for her now iconic Penguin Classics covers. Weekly artist takeovers bring a personal touch to your festivities, with exquisite embroidery and lettering on baubles, napkins and stockings. Warm up with the season’s finest treats, from the first-ever Lindt Chocolate Bar to an après-ski terrace by Grey Goose x farmshop restaurant & cafe and The Cotswold Guy’s celebrated sausage rolls.

This season, Fidenza Village becomes a haven for food lovers, celebrating Italy’s rich culinary heritage with a festive twist. From 11 to 24 November, in honour of the Parmigiano Reggiano Consortium’s 90th anniversary, the Village buzzes with Italian flavours, fine wines and artistry. Indulge in exclusive Parmigiano Reggiano-inspired menus across the Village restaurants and join guided tastings that capture the true essence of Italy – making Fidenza Village a must-visit for any devoted foodie this season.

Step into a surrealist Christmas at La Roca Village, where festive decor brings to life Gala Dalí’s enchanting Mediterranean dream. Velvet bows, shimmering chandeliers and whimsical, twinkling lobsters transform the Village into a festive scene inspired by the ‘Many Faces of Gala Dalí’ exhibition, a collaboration with the Fundació Gala-Salvador Dalí. This season-long tribute to Gala’s timeless influence captures the interplay of art, fashion and community, promising an unforgettable festive escape. Guests will also find a trove of regional gourmet gifts at the Taste of Christmas pop-up , with proceeds supporting DO GOOD, The Bicester Collection Villages’ philanthropic programme.

At Ingolstadt Village and Wertheim Village, the season has already begun with a candlelight concert, setting the stage for festive displays that celebrate tradition. From mid-November, Ingolstadt Village’s Christmas market comes alive, brimming with seasonal treats – think mulled wine, spiced gingerbread and Bavarian delicacies. Wertheim Village beckons winter shoppers with luxury ski brands Bogner and Rossignol, while Ingolstadt Village offers Bavarian-inspired fashion from Handstich, perfect for thoughtful gifting. And every Friday and Saturday in December, Santa himself will be visiting, spreading joy to young and old alike.