Part Three: the Christmas Market

The Montreux Tourist Office immodestly describes its Christmas Market as the most beautiful in Switzerland. It is pretty, and earnestly maintained as a regional attraction of high quality even within the Swiss tradition of general excellence.
The market runs for a month, during which it attracts 350,000 visitors --- more than the summer jazz festival.

A large multi-angled open air market building was the centrepiece for this traditional celebration much loved by locals and visitors alike.

We had a late dinner amid the noise of Alpine horns, singing and loud conversations at wooden tables which filled a two-story replica of a country restaurant. The tantalizing aroma of meat and cheese from hearty Swiss cooking occupied whatever space remained. In a nearby windowed tent a separate atmospheric cubicle was occupied by more diners who waved and offered a toast to a photographer.

After dinner, we strolled by craft booths lining the lakeshore promenade. Most families had left for home; it was a time for adults to relax and reminisce with friends over glasses of steaming mulled wine. What a surprise seeing one of the vendors sporting a Montréal Canadiens hockey jersey!

The casino was its Cinderella alter ego at night. The tranquil daytime persona was lit up, well, like a Christmas tree as it enjoined the seasonal celebrations.