What to discover in Champagne this winter: Ideas for an unforgettable stay

habits de lumières

From December 12 to 14, 2025

Each year, Épernay lights up to celebrate the magic of Christmas and the history of its iconic Avenue de Champagne. The ‘Habits de Lumière,’ organized by the City of Épernay and the Avenue de Champagne Committee, return this year from December 12 to 14, 2025, for an exceptional edition: the 25th anniversary and the grand finale of the avenue’s centenary celebrations.

On the program: spectacular illuminations, video mapping on the façades of prestigious Champagne houses, musical entertainment, and pop-up Champagne bars. A true celebration of the senses that blends heritage, light, and festive atmosphere. An unmissable event to fully experience the magic of winter in Champagne

christmas magic

From November 29, 2024 to January 4, 2025, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. on school days and from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. on non-school days!

Each winter, Épernay transforms into a snowy playground, a festive experience for both children and adults. The event features magical winter decorations, creative workshops, fun activities, and photo spots to capture unforgettable moments.

It’s the perfect opportunity to stroll through the city, enjoy the Christmas atmosphere, and discover Épernay under its most beautiful lights, while sharing a warm and joyful moment with family or friends.

Epernay mon amour

From February 9 to 15, 2025

Épernay celebrates love with a week of magical and friendly activities for couples and friends alike. The event creates a romantic atmosphere throughout the city and along the Avenue de Champagne, featuring illuminated and decorative installations, Champagne and chocolate tastings in accessible spaces, as well as themed workshops and activities centered around wine and local traditions.

Children and adults can enjoy a playful and romantic trail through the city, unique photo spots, and festive surprises designed to celebrate love and winter in Champagne. An ideal experience for strolling, soaking up the warm Valentine’s Day atmosphere, and discovering Épernay’s heritage and charm.

Christmas market in reims

From November 26 to December 28, 2025

Immerse yourself in the magic of the holiday season in the heart of Reims! From November 26 to December 28, 2025, the city center transforms into a true Christmas village with more than 150 chalets offering local crafts, gift ideas, and festive treats.

A large Ferris wheel provides breathtaking views over the city, and a variety of activities will delight both children and adults. A perfect outing to enjoy the festive atmosphere of winter in Champagne.

regalia spectacle in reims

From Friday, November 28, 2025 to Saturday, January 3, 2026

The façade of Reims’ Notre-Dame Cathedral lights up every Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. (except on December 12 due to a concert). This multimedia show tells the story of the city and its cathedral through colorful projections and light displays, creating a magical and enchanting atmosphere for visitors of all ages.

An unmissable visual experience to prolong the magic of winter in Champagne.

Christmas village le Clos Corbier

From December 1 to 31

Le Clos Corbier invites you to celebrate Christmas the Champagne way: a Christmas market, local artisans, Champagne tastings, crêpes and waffles.

On Fridays December 5, 12, 19 and 26, immerse yourself in the world of Clos Corbier with guided cellar tours followed by a festive dinner to fully embrace the Christmas spirit. And to extend the experience, the boutique remains open, offering a selection of Champagnes and artisanal products, perfect for your holiday gifts.

Vintage Christmas tour

From November 29 to December 20, 2025

Experience Épernay in a whole new way this winter with MY VINTAGE TOUR COMPANY !


Set off on a magical ride aboard an illuminated vintage car, wrapped in a cozy blanket. Admire Épernay’s sparkling lights, enjoy two glasses of Champagne and a cup of artisanal mulled wine, and stop by a local producers’ Christmas market. Take in a panoramic view of the city, Champagne flute in hand, and leave with a special Christmas souvenir from Champagne. A warm and friendly experience, available privately or in small groups, to fully embrace the magic of Christmas.

Book now!

Experience winter in Champagne like never before: wonder, tastings, and festive magic await around every corner.

See you soon in Champagne!

5 Unusual Places to Visit in Champagne

Champagne is world-renowned for its prestigious Champagne houses and its vineyard landscapes listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. But beyond the bubbles, this region is full of little-known and sometimes surprising places that are well worth a visit. Here are 5 unusual spots to explore during your next trip to Champagne.

1. Faux de Verzy

Nestled in the heart of the Montagne de Reims Regional Natural Park, the Faux de Verzy forest is home to a unique concentration of twisted beeches, known locally as “faux” – a phenomenon found nowhere else in Europe.

These trees, with their contorted and mysterious shapes, create an almost otherworldly landscape, straight out of a fairy tale.

There are more than 800 specimens, protected for several decades.

Autumn is a particularly magical time to visit, when the foliage turns to vibrant shades of red and gold.

Marked trails allow you to explore the forest at your own pace.

Distance: 30 minutes from Avize and 25 minutes from Reims.

2. Fort de la Pompelle

Classified as a historical monument, Fort de la Pompelle is a former military fortification dating back to the late 19th century, built to strengthen the defensive belt around Reims.

It played a crucial role during World War I. Today, it has been transformed into a museum showcasing an exceptional collection of helmets and military artifacts from across Europe.

Its imposing architecture, standing in isolation amid the woods, and its powerful historical legacy make it a striking and unusual site, far from the usual tourist trails.

Distance: 40 minutes from Avize, 15 minutes from Reims.

3. Château de Boursault

Built in the 19th century by Madame Clicquot (the famous Widow Clicquot), Château de Boursault is the only château in the region that produces its own Champagne.

This neo-Renaissance residence, perched atop a hill, offers stunning views over the Marne Valley. Little known to the general public, the estate offers private tours by reservation, including tastings.

A discreet immersion in a magnificent setting where history, architecture, and Champagne come together.

Distance: 25 minutes from Avize, 45 minutes from Reims.

4. The Cave of Shells (La Cave aux Coquillages)

Located in Fleury-la-Rivière, this unique cave is a former fossilized sea turned into a paleontological site.

As you explore its chalk galleries, you will discover thousands of fossilized shells dating back over 45 million years.

The visit, guided by a passionate winemaker, is also an opportunity to taste their Champagne, cultivated on this exceptional terroir. A unique blend of geology, viticulture, and natural heritage.

Distance: 10 minutes from Avize, 35 minutes from Reims.

5. The Verzenay Lighthouse

Quintessentially unusual, the Verzenay Lighthouse stands atop a hill, surrounded by vineyards.

Built in 1909 by Joseph Goulet for advertising his Champagne house, it was never intended to guide ships, but today remains one of the region’s most surprising landmarks.

The lighthouse now houses a museum dedicated to vines and wine, and from its summit offers an exceptional panoramic view over the Montagne de Reims and its classified villages.

A must-see visit for the curious traveler.

Distance: 25 minutes from Avize, 20 minutes from Reims.