French Christmas Markets

By Patricia Connell
26/10/2005

French Christmas Markets in aid of The Rainbow Trust Children’s Charity
sponsored by FranceInLondon.com

Marlow, a small middle class town, not far from Henley-on-Thames and less than an hour from London, welcomed for the first time the French Christmas Market at the heart of its community.

Approximately, twenty French London based company were brave enough to adventure out of London where they normally operate not knowing what welcome they would get once in Marlow. Marlow is also the town that Laurent Perrier, also one of the sponsors, chose to have their UK headquarter. Outside, their first impression of the market was in a typical French style, that of the cheese and the olives displayed there.

As with any new comer, the residents of Marlow offered a mixed reception. On the first day, despite the main bridge to the centre of town being closed, many residents including the Town Mayor, the twinning committee and both local news paper paid the market a visit. Everybody who was anybody in this little town wanted to find out what it was like to suddenly have this bunch of French people arriving in their town.

Some were rather disappointed that most of the exhibitors were in fact only coming from London and not directly from France but still with the French Music going and all of us speaking French, it quickly created an atmosphere that they were all looking for. It was very pleasant and visitors and exhibitors all commented on it.

The second day was much busier and many people from the previous day came back. Children were having their faces painted, others were in the craft area painting Christmas decorations whilst their parents were relaxing in the café area eating crêpes and drinking tea or coffee.

With food and champagne sampling going on in the food hall, many decided to take their time and have a chat in French with most of the exhibitors. How often do you get to practice your French when not in France?

The next market in the area will now be in Henley on 23^rd and 24^th November for everyone to finalise their Christmas Shopping.

For more information about French Christmas Fairs ,