Bouju Bridge

River of the elves

Come to the magical land of elves.

Each bridge, each wash house is a Christmas preparation workshop where Santa's little employees are busy. While following the enchanted river, you will be able to observe along the bridges: the workshop of toys manufacture and confectionery, the one of preparation of candles and decorations of the tree...

A création by M2.Creative

Chartres en lumières celebrates Christmas

From November 29th to January 5th, the most beautiful monuments illuminated by Chartres en lumières are decked out in Christmas colours. 

Marvel at the river of elves on the bridges and wash houses of the lower town, attend a banquet at the Hôtel Montescot, or take a trip to Lapland at the Museum of Fine Arts. And of course, the spirit of Christmas will also illuminate Chartres Cathedral.

Find out about all the Christmas illuminations

A little history

In the Middle Ages, the Bouju bridge was lined with houses on both sides. This stone structure was the main entrance to the medieval city and the access road to Chartres from the road to Paris.

At that time, a real market around the trades of the banks of the Eure had formed. Imagine the animation that reigned in these streets!

Dates and times

The 21 sites of Chartres en lumières are illuminated EVERY, night from dusk to 11pm, until 4th January 2026.

The lighting of the illuminations varies according to the time of nightfall.

  • November : around 6pm
  • December: 5.45pm
  • January : 5.45pm