AmboiseCulture & HeritageFamily activities Article published on18th November 2021

Christmas time in the Loire Valley

This Christmas time in the Loire Valley, take your children’s eyes! From December 4th to January 2nd, 7 of the most iconic chateaux of the Loire take you into a wonderful universe full of dreams and lights!

New in 2021: The card “Noël au Pays des Châteaux” will make you save money in the 7 participating chateaux. You can find it in the Tourist Offices of Indre-et-Loire for 4€. Get a 10% discount in the gift shops of these Tourist Offices.

Royal Chateau of Amboise

At the Royal Chateau of Amboise, the children’s dreams mingle with the Kings’ white dreams. The walls of King Charles 8 and Francis 1 residence are covered in white. A symbol of purity as well as monarchy, the color white also refers to the immaculate landscapes of a Christmas morning. Under the guidance of artist Coline Gaignard, a brand new scenography totally transforms the royal residence.

Events at the Royal Chateau of Amboise
December 21st, 22nd, 29th, 30th at 4.30 pm:
Christmas tour: Santa’s assistant unveils all the little Christmas secrets at the time of the Kings. Upon reservation.
Thursday, December 23rd, at 3.00 pm, and Monday, December 27th at 5.30 pm:
Children’s show «L’heure du conte», by Jean-François Talon
For children from 7 years old. Reservation www.chateau-amboise.com
Monday, December 27th:  the chateau is open in the evening until 7.00 pm.
Tuesday, December 28th, at 3.00 pm:
Musical tale and shadow theatres «Neige», from Maxence Fermine and presented by collectif les Audacieux. For children from 7 years old. Reservation www.chateau-amboise.com

Chateau of Chenonceau

This Christmas, the Ladies chateau becomes a royal Paradise! Enhanced by the floral arrangements of their florist team, Chenonceau wears its finest attires. The kitchen tables are filled with the sweetest dishes, the bedrooms are magnified by perfumed decorations. At the end of the gallery overlooking river Cher, an enormous Christmas tree dazzles.

Chateau of Villandry

This year in Villandry, nature comes to the chateau! From the kitchens to the bedrooms and the living-room, the floral arrangements are an extension of the gardens. A welcoming atmosphere warm up the rooms and winter vegetables give the gardens a very unusual look. Night opening on Tuesday, December 28th until 8.00 pm.

Chateau of Azay-le-Rideau

Fine food is honored at the chateau of Azay-le-Rideau. Véronique Chauvet mixes her artistic and culinary talents to decorate the monument with her paper creations. On the banks of the Indre, do not miss the iconic view of the chateau reflecting itself into the mysterious mists of a winter morning.

Chateau of Langeais

Langeais celebrates this year a  Christmas of Light! The light of candles lightning up the dressed tables and covered with some delicacies. The light of colorful balls studding beautiful trees. The light of the windows giving this magnificent stone castle its so peculiar atmosphere.

Events at the Chateau of Langeais
December 21st to 30th, Tuesday through Thursday: 10.00 am to 1.00 pm and 2.00 to 5.00 pm
The scribe workshop: discover the world of calligraphy and create your own Christmas car! (duration 45 minutes, for children from 7 years old). Reservation +33 (0)2 47 96 72 60.
December 26th to 28th at 11.30 am, 2.30 pm and 3.30 pm
Children’s tale: a fun and sweet moment where children listen to a wonderful tale! (duration 50 minutes, age 4 to 8 years old). Reservation +33 (0)2 47 96 72 60.

Royal City of Loches

Extending its 2021 exhibition about the animals, the royal city of Loches invites you to discover the musical tale “Peter and the wolf”. The tour includes a sound and light that will enchant both young and old visitors.

Events at the royal city of Loches
Sunday, December 5th and 12th then everyday from December 19th to January 2nd (11.00 am and/or 2.30 pm) Reading of the tale “Peter and the wolf”

Fortress of Chinon

The Christmas exhibition invites you to discover the secrets of Christmas Myths and Legends. Saint Nicolas, Black Peter not to forget of course, the one and only Santa Claus… A fun visit into the universe of these emblematic characters.