It’s Christmas in Aix-en-Provence
Right now in Aix-en-Provence, the lights are on and the markets are all set up for the festive season. We begin our walk at the Fontaine de la Rotonde, which lies at the bottom of the Main Street in the middle of Aix known as Cours Mirabeau. Here, the many carnival rides blink and sing with kids laughing and enjoying being whipped around in the fresh air. As you continue down the street, there are lovely warm smells of crepes that are being freshly made and smeared with Nutella or fresh jam. Next, there are waffles, candy apples and cotton candy. Further along we can buy truffles in all forms. There’s lavender, jewelry, photography, artwork, everything. As you walk down this beautifully lit street, you will see the many decorated restaurants that are bursting with customers enjoying a laugh with friends. I often go to Cafe du Paris, Cafe le Grillon or La Belle Epoque, to eat. If you’re looking for drinks, there’s always a good crowd hanging out in The Four Courts, Irish Bar. Here you’ll find a good dose of Rock and Roll and lots of English speakers. Why not? On this side of the street, the air smells like mulled wine and roasted chestnuts. The musicians play Christmas songs and the atmosphere is joyous. The streets of Aix are buzzing with holiday cheer. The excitement is real and there is something for everyone.
