Best Places to Visit in Ivory Coast for Christmas Cheer

For expats and digital nomads in Ivory Coast looking to immerse themselves in the festive spirit, December offers a myriad of places that come alive with holiday cheer. From vibrant markets to festive events, there's a wealth of experiences to explore. Whether you're after the twinkling lights, the scent of holiday treats, or the sound of carols, these destinations within Ivory Coast are sure to fill your season with joy.

Plateau in Abidjan

The Plateau district of Abidjan transforms into a Christmas wonderland during the holiday season. As the business hub of the city, it lights up with festive decorations and becomes the center of holiday activities. The streets are adorned with lights and Christmas trees, and local shops offer a variety of holiday-themed goods. In early December, the area hosts a Christmas parade featuring floats, music, and dance performances, bringing together locals and visitors in celebration.

We Recommend: Don't miss the chance to try the local ginger-infused hot chocolate, a popular treat that's sure to warm you up as you stroll through the festively decorated streets.

Cocody in Abidjan

Cocody, another neighborhood in Abidjan, is known for its upscale residential areas and also gets into the holiday spirit with its own flair. The Saint Jean-Baptiste Cathedral in Cocody is a focal point for Christmas celebrations, with special masses and choirs singing carols. The area around the cathedral often features nativity scenes and vendors selling traditional Ivorian Christmas foods.

We Recommend: Experience the Midnight Mass at the Saint Jean-Baptiste Cathedral for a truly spiritual and communal celebration, followed by sampling the delicious beignets de manioc, a local favorite.

Grand-Bassam

Grand-Bassam, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a historical backdrop to its Christmas festivities. The colonial architecture and sandy beaches provide a unique setting for holiday events. In December, the town hosts a Christmas market where artisans sell handmade crafts, local art, and traditional Ivorian holiday treats. The beachfront becomes a gathering place for families and friends to celebrate together.

We Recommend: Look out for the hand-painted Christmas ornaments at the market, which make for unique souvenirs and gifts, and enjoy the fresh seafood dishes that are a staple of Grand-Bassam's cuisine.

Yamoussoukro

Yamoussoukro, the political capital of Ivory Coast, is home to the impressive Basilica of Our Lady of Peace, which is especially captivating during the Christmas season. The basilica and its surroundings are beautifully lit up, and the sound of choirs performing Christmas carols can be heard echoing through the halls. The city also hosts a variety of Christmas events, including concerts and nativity plays, typically held in the week leading up to Christmas.

We Recommend: Attend a concert at the Basilica of Our Lady of Peace to enjoy the stunning acoustics and the festive atmosphere that fills this remarkable edifice during the holiday season.

San Pedro

San Pedro, with its bustling port and beautiful beaches, offers a tropical Christmas experience. The city is known for its lively Christmas Eve celebrations, where locals and visitors alike gather on the beaches for parties that last well into the night. Street vendors sell festive foods and drinks, and the sound of reggae and zouglou music adds to the celebratory mood.

We Recommend: Join in the Christmas Eve beach parties for a unique blend of Ivorian culture and holiday festivities, and don't forget to try the local poisson braisé (grilled fish), a must-have at any Ivorian celebration.

Bouaké

Bouaké, the second-largest city in Ivory Coast, is known for its vibrant culture and becomes even more animated during the holiday season. The city's Christmas market is a highlight, offering a variety of goods from colorful textiles to traditional crafts. Bouaké also hosts a Christmas festival with live music, dance performances, and a parade that features a mix of traditional Ivorian and Western holiday elements, usually taking place in mid-December.

We Recommend: Explore the Christmas market for unique Ivorian fabrics, which make for beautiful holiday gifts, and savor the local street food, including alloco (fried plantains) and spicy peanut sauce.

Korhogo

Korhogo, known for its rich cultural heritage and artisan communities, offers a more traditional take on Christmas. The local artisans create special holiday-themed crafts, and the town's cultural center often hosts events showcasing Ivorian dance and music that incorporate Christmas themes. The festive atmosphere is palpable, with the community coming together to celebrate the season.

We Recommend: Visit the artisan workshops to see the creation of unique holiday crafts and take part in a traditional dance event to experience the local customs intertwined with the festive season.

Man

The city of Man, set amidst the mountains and known as the "City of 18 Mountains," provides a scenic setting for Christmas celebrations. The cooler climate here makes it a refreshing escape from the coastal heat. Christmas in Man is a time for community gatherings, with local churches organizing events and choirs performing in public spaces. The city's natural beauty, with its waterfalls and lush greenery, adds to the serene holiday experience.

We Recommend: Take a moment to enjoy the tranquility of the mountainous landscape of Man during the holiday season, and if you're feeling adventurous, a hike to one of the nearby waterfalls can be a refreshing holiday activity.