From festive markets and creative workshops to world-class performances and cozy family activities, Lausanne in December is bursting with seasonal magic. Here’s your guide to the must-see happenings in Lausanne this month:
- December 1: Coffee & Play, a Christmas cookies workshop at Café Madeleine
A relaxed, creative morning for moms with preschool children: decorate Christmas cookies, enjoy coffee, and connect with other parents in a warm, supportive environment. - December 2: Parental Burnout talk at Café Madeleine
A thoughtful discussion around parental burnout—an opportunity to share, learn, and connect in a supportive environment. A meaningful event to remind you to slow down during the busy holiday season. Book your spot here. - December 3: Les Rencontres du Royal with Myret Zaki, former editor-in-chief of Bilan magazine, Swiss journalist and columnist.
- December 3-31: Brocéliande at Le Petit Théâtre. A family-friendly theatre journey: follow Arthur and Morgane as they grow in the enchanted forest with Merlin and Viviane. A beautiful mix of live animation, music, choral play — and on Dec 31, a New Year’s Eve dance after the show.
- December 3–4 & 10–11: Exclusive Tibits & Cruchon Menu
Treat your taste buds to an exclusive dining experience at Tibits & Cruchon. On these special evenings, enjoy a menu crafted with creativity and care—an elegant pairing of vegetarian gastronomy and local wines from Domaine Cruchon. - December 4 to 6: 8th edition Pintes Ouvertes. Let’s celebrate wine and fondue at affordable prices! In more than 100 restaurants in Canton Vaud, you will find a 100% Vaudois menu (Gruyère AOP fondue, IGP dry sausage, bread from the artisan baker or potatoes from the market gardeners, gherkins, and a glass of Chasselas) all for the price of 20 Fr.
- December 5: Rooted & Rising at Cospire. A workshop that honours the wildness of the season and invites you to anchor within it. A space where you’ll reconnect with who you truly are, tap into your unique strengths, and use the power of aromatherapy and mindful coaching to calm your nervous system and get aligned.
- December 5 to 7: Les Urbaines Festival. A free, boundary-pushing weekend of 50+ experimental performances — music, visual arts, workshops — in venues across Lausanne, Renens, and Chavannes. A celebration of artistic innovation and new perspectives.
- December 5 to 17: Les Docks is celebrating its 20th anniversary with a series of special evenings — from a roaring-twenties burlesque cabaret and a Gala Proxima spotlighting 20 past collaborators, to an explosive electro night. Join the party and raise a glass to two decades of unforgettable concerts.
- December 9: Stand-Up Comedy in English. RED MIC is bringing the best comedians from around the globe to Lausanne for one night only! A hilarious night where five amazing comedians give you their absolute best jokes. Please be aware that this is a special show that is being recorded.
- December 13: Christmas Run. The annual festive evening race through Lausanne’s city centre — join Santas of all ages, run the big loop from Place de l’Europe, and soak up live music in a perfect Christmas atmosphere.
- December 13: Ville de Lausanne annual Wine Auction. The 223rd annual wine auction in Lausanne’s City Hall — free entry to bid on bottles from the city’s five vineyards and celebrate the new 2025 vintage.
- December 7–8 & 14–15: Adventure meets inspiration at Montagne en Scène. This film festival celebrates mountain culture and outdoor exploration through breathtaking documentaries and stories from the world’s most daring adventurers.
- December 10–21: The Winter Cin’estival transforms Château d’Ouchy into a cinematic winter escape. Enjoy a curated selection of films in a cozy lakeside setting, with mulled wine, twinkling lights, and the charm of Lausanne’s lakeshore.
- December 12-13: La Grande Raisinée. Place Bel-Air turns into a giant outdoor kitchen as the winemakers of Tartegnin prepare the traditional raisinée over a wood fire for 36 hours! Taste local specialties, and pick up bottles sold at 25 CHF — with all proceeds donated to charity. Free entry — a perfect chance to experience the festive, authentic spirit of the Vaud terroir.
- December 16-21: Béjart Ballet Lausanne returns to Théâtre de Beaulieu for three powerful works: Real Loveby Andonis Foniadakis, OSKAR by Riva & Repele, and a breathtaking new version of Béjart’s iconic The Firebird.
- December 17: As part of the 2025-2026 season, the Association des Concerts de Montbenon presents its Christmas Concert with the Ensemble Musique des Lumières.
- December 22: Music Circus Show on Ice with Highlights of Frozen at Beaulieu. This ice show is a unique combination of circus art and figure skating. Children and adults will be taken on a magical journey to the magical world of the animated films Frozen 1 and 2.
- During the whole month of December, come and admire the puppies at Barryland. Need a dose of joy? Visit Barryland for an encounter with the newly arrived Saint Bernard puppies. These fluffy ambassadors of the Swiss Alps are sure to warm your heart and make for an unforgettable family outing.
- December 27 to January 4: Organissima & Lux, a magical organ concert in Lausanne Cathedral (Dec 27–Jan 4) blending historic organ music from the 18th–20th centuries with immersive light mapping, laser projections & holograms. A futuristic tribute to the Cathedral’s 750th anniversary.
- La Revue de Lausanne – “Tout va bien” (until January 4 at Pavillon Naftule): Blaise Bersinger and the Revue troupe offer a witty, satirical sketch‑show on current affairs — despite wars, climate anxiety, and chaos, they promise: “everything’s fine.”
- On December 31, choose your vibe: dance under the stars at a Giant Silent Disco — or sail into the New Year aboard a festive CGN cruise with dinner, music & champagne.
CHRISTMAS MARKETS & SHOPPING:
Don’t miss this chance to find distinctive pieces and support Lausanne's local art scene:
- December 2-19: Le Pop-Up Local by Lausanne à Table. The perfect opportunity to give gourmet Christmas gifts to your loved ones or yourself. The entire Lausanne à Table team is looking forward to making you discover what their members do best.
- December 4: Knock on Wood Open Doors Day & Makers Market
Discover craftsmanship up close at Knock on Wood’s Open Doors Day in Lausanne. Explore the workshops, meet local makers, and shop at the Makers Market for sustainable, handmade gifts—perfect for your Christmas list. - December 6: Beau-Rivage Palace Christmas Market. A luxurious lakeside Christmas fair under the hotel’s arcades, with local artisans, gourmet treats (raclette, waffles, seafood), live music, Santa’s visit, and the signature Yule log to taste and pre-order. Free entry.
- December 7: Cully Bazar. More than 70 local artisans and producers open their doors across the charming lakeside village of Cully (10:00–18:00). Free entry, lots of discoveries and local flavors to explore.”
- December 11–13: Marché de Noël Solidaire at Pôle Sud, Avenue Jean-Jacques Mercier 3 (1003 Lausanne). This festive market gathers artisans and creators who donate a portion of their proceeds to local causes—making your holiday shopping both joyful and meaningful.
- December 11–14: Hors-Formes Studio. A poetic pop-up exhibition in Biel/Bienne showcasing illustration and ceramics by a female collective, including Laure Krayenbühl. Find one‑off artworks, prints, cards and ceramics in a warm boutique atmosphere.
- December 11–13: Le Tout Ptit Marché de Noël at Ose Thérapies
A small but charming Christmas market hosted by Ose Thérapies, featuring Les Céramiques Emlo and Émilie Lrtschr. Expect handcrafted ceramics, cozy vibes, and a sense of community that captures the spirit of the season. - December 13: SweetMarket, Marché des Créateurs. A Lausanne-based creators’ market at Av. Villamont 13, gathering around 70 local Swiss artisans. Expect handmade fashion, jewelry, ceramics, illustrations, candles, and other original gifts.
- Boutique des créateur·rices at Bô Noël — The Christmas market winding through Lausanne’s city centre until December 31, featuring over 40 local creators and artisans.
- The Christmas Tree Market at Place de la Riponne from December 1 to December 23 (check opening hours here) or at Ferme de Rovéréaz (more info here).
