Ho ho ho! The holiday season has arrived in Paris, bringing countless ways to celebrate and revel in the magic of this special time of year. Dazzling Christmas lights illuminate the city’s main avenues, while decorations transform the city’s restaurants and storefronts into enchanting displays. Everywhere you turn, charming holiday villages spring to life, offering freshly roasted chestnuts, mulled wine and steaming chocolat chaud to keep you warm. And, let’s not forget the Christmas markets scattered across the French capital, perfect for seasonal shopping and festive treats.
INSPIRELLE has curated this list of holiday highlights to help you make the most of this magical season in the City of Light! From spectacular Christmas displays and traditional markets to pop-up ice rinks, winter wonderlands, and holiday shows, Paris is alive with seasonal cheer and memorable experiences.
NOTE: Details are correct at the time of publication. Please check each organizer’s website before heading out in case of any last-minute changes.
Charming Christmas Markets
Snack on regional delicacies, sip hot chocolate or mulled wine (vin chaud) and pick up artisanal crafts at Paris’s many Christmas markets (marchés de Noël), with their charming chalets scattered across the city. This year, why not explore smaller festive markets that celebrate sustainability or showcase diverse cultural traditions of Noël?
** INSPIRELLE TIP** All the big markets will be crowded, so hang on to your kids and belongings. Eating and drinking will only be allowed in controlled, designated areas.
Christmas Magic in the Tuileries Gardens
The splendor of the season is on full display inside one of Paris’s famous gardens. Traditional holiday chalets form a winter wonderland in the heart and labyrinth of the French capital’s garden. Sample warm cider and hot chocolate, regional foods and products and find plenty of original gift ideas. Ride the giant Ferris wheel for a spectacular view of the city of light or treat the children to a holiday guignol (marionette) show. There’s even an ice rink to test your skating skills!
When: Nov. 16, 2024 – Jan. 1, 2025
Where: Tuileries Gardens at Place de la Concorde, Paris 75001
City of Paris Christmas Market
This year, the City of Paris’s annual Christmas market moves from the main City Hall (Hôtel de Ville) to the Place de la Concorde, near the Tuileries Gardens! Stroll around a village of beautifully decorated winter chalets offering “made in Paris” gifts and mouth-watering regional delicacies. Free children’s activities are available every Wednesday and on weekends.
When: Dec.14, 2024 – Jan. 5, 2025
Where: Place de la Concorde, 75008
Christmas Market at La Défense (L’Arche de Noël de la Défense)
The largest and most authentic Christmas market in Île-de-France takes place beneath the illuminated arch of La Défense. Over 250 wooden chalets transform the Esplanade into a charming village, offering Christmas trinkets, French regional cuisine, and unique arts and crafts from Morocco, Tunisia, China, Iran and Nepal. A perfect outing for the whole family!
When: Nov. 14 – Dec. 29, 2024, Mondays to Thursdays 11 am – 9 pm, Fridays 11 am – 10 pm, Saturdays 10 am – 10 pm, Sundays 11 am – 8 pm. Closed Dec. 25.
Where: Esplanade de La Défense, 92800 Puteaux
Christmas Market in Vincennes
The magic of Christmas comes to life in Vincennes on December 6, 2024 with illuminated parades and the opening of the local skating rink. The Cours Marigny transforms into a vibrant Christmas Market with festive chalets offering savory and sweet treats from France, Canada and La Réunion, along with many gift ideas. Keep an eye out for Santa, who will be strolling through the neighborhood all month long! Easily accessible via Metro line 1, it’s a perfect family outing on the East side of Paris.
When: Dec. 6 – Dec. 24, 2024, 10 am – 8 pm (closes at 4 pm on the Dec 24)
Where: Cours Marigny, Rue du Midi, 94300 Vincennes
If you prefer to stay away from the mega-markets, there are plenty of smaller ones around Paris, each with its own slightly different ambiance and charm. To locate them – including the arts and crafts-themed market near the newly-restored and reopened Notre Dame Cathedral, an Alsatian market at Gare de l’Est, others at Saint-Germain-des-Près and at the foot of the Eiffel Tower, and more – check out the city’s official visitors bureau website for a full list of traditional and innovative holiday sites, or the Paris Discovery website, a guide to the Christmas markets around Europe.
Spectacular Shows to Captivate You
Prefer to stay indoors when it’s cold outdoors? How about enjoying one of these captivating performances this winter?
Les Misérables at the Théatre du Chatelet
The record-breaking musical returns with a new production in French (subtitled in English) featuring Victor Hugo’s timeless characters and Boublil and Schönberg’s unforgettable music. Get ready to emerge from the theater humming “One Day More” and brimming with French revolutionary spirit.
Where: Théâtre du Châtelet, 7 rue Edouard Colonne, 75001 Paris
When: Nov. 20, 2024 – Jan. 2, 2025. Check the WEBSITE for showtimes and bookings
Hello Dolly at the Lido2
Studded with humorous performances, elaborate musical numbers, and sumptuous costumes, this sparkling tale of a matchmaker in New York looking to find love for lonely hearts, including her own, is pure theatrical magic.
Where: 116 bis Avenue des Champs-Élysées, 75008 Paris
When: Nov, 7 2024 –Jan. 5, 2025. Check WEBSITE for showtimes and bookings
Spectaculaire at the Cirque d’Hiver Bouglione
For a guaranteed moment of enchantment, head to the historic Cirque d’Hiver for a show that will take you from laughter to amazement with its signature mix of classic juggling and clowning with cutting-edge acrobatic and aerial feats.
Where: 110 rue Amelot, 75011 Paris
When: Nov 30, 2024 – Mar. 9 2025. Check WEBSITE for showtimes and bookings
My First Swan Lake at the Théâtre Mogador
It’s never too early to introduce children to the magic of classical music and dance. This plot has been simplified and adapted for children aged five and up, but the show still features the stunning dancing, costumes and decor that are the hallmarks of this doomed love story between the swan princess and her dashing prince.
Where: 25 Rue de Mogador, 75009 Paris, France
When: Nov 30, 2024 – Feb. 9, 2025. Check WEBSITE for details and bookings
Casse-Noisette (The Nutcracker)
If your taste runs to the less classic, discover Spanish choreographer Blanca Li’s version of the Nutcracker for eight dancers. Mixing hip hop with Tchaikovsky, it’s a fresh take on the story of young Clara, who falls asleep on Christmas Eve and dreams of a magical world where a Nutcracker Prince fights a battle against a Mouse King. A surprising and unforgettable twist on a seasonal classic.
Where: Le Théâtre Libre, 4 Boulevard de Strasbourg, 75010 Paris
When: Nov. 30, 2024 – Jan 5, 2025. Check WEBSITE for showtimes and bookings.
Folies Gruss by the Alexis Gruss Circus
The Compagnie Alexis Gruss celebrates its 50th anniversary with a new show featuring no less than 50 magnificent horses and 25 acrobatic artists. Enjoy a pre-show dinner and concert or after-show drink to keep the festive ambience going.
Where: Carrefour de Cascades, 75016 Paris
When: Dec. 12, 2024 – Mar. 30, 2025. Check WEBSITE for details and bookings
CIRKAFRIKA by the Stars of Ethiopia
This year, the Cirque Phénix shines a spotlight on the African continent, with a show inspired by the music, culture and traditions of Ethiopia and featuring performers from the region. Perfect family entertainment for a special night out!
Where: Place Cardinal-Lavigerie, 75012 Paris
When: Dec. 7, 2024 – Jan. 12, 2025. Check WEBSITE for details and bookings
Holiday Ice Skating
Something about skating under the wintery stars or in a holiday-themed setting makes the experience a little more magical. So, grab your skates and gloves and head over to one of these seasonal skating rinks:
Skating at the Grand Palais
The Grand Palais des Glaces returns to Paris for the 2024-2025 winter season. This is great news for skaters and lovers of the capital, as this iconic event has been on hold for five years during renovations of the world’s largest, and arguably most beautiful, indoor skating rink.
Where: Grand Palais, 7b Winston Churchill Blvd,75008 Paris
When: Dec. 14, 2024 – Jan. 8, 2025, every day except Dec. 19, 24, and 31. 10 am – 7 pm, and 8 pm -2 am.
Cost: 25/15€ Adults and children morning session, 30/18€ afternoon session, 36€ evening. Advance tickets recommended – see WEBSITE for booking.
Outdoor Ice Skating at the Tuileries Garden
Don your earmuffs and gloves and enjoy a magical ice skating experience in the heart of the Christmas market at the royal Tuileries Garden. There’s even a zone dedicated to younger skaters. Don’t forget to look up to see Santa Claus flying through the skies of Paris!
When: Through Jan. 1, 2025, every day from 10 am – 7 pm
Where: Jardin des Tuileries, 75001. Métro: Tuileries
Cost: 8€ for children; 10€ for adults
Skating at the Rambouillet Christmas Market
Just an hour outside Paris, the town of Rambouillet hosts a charming Christmas market with two skating rinks for kids of all ages. While you’re there, pick up some handmade gifts or take a snack break with gourmet hot chocolate, mulled wine, crêpes, waffles and other treats.
When: Dec. 7, 2024 – Jan. 5, 2025, 11 am – 7 pm (8 pm Fridays and Saturdays)
Where: Place Félix Faure, 78120 Rambouillet
Cost: 5€/hour, skate rental included, 3€ for under 6 years old
Vincennes Christmas Market Ice Rink
The Hôtel de Ville of Vincennes offers a great Christmas Market every year. In 2024, the ice rink comes back to the esplanade in front of the Mairie for the grand pleasure of families skating in the crisp winter air.
When: Dec. 6, 2024 -Jan. 5, 2025
Where: Esplanade de l’Hôtel de Ville, 53 bis rue de Fontenay, 94300 Vincennes
Cost: 7€ for ages 6 and up; 5€ for kids under 6
Skating at La Villette
For the first time, La Villette is hosting a Christmas Village at the Fontaine-aux-Lions square this year. The Christmas Village centers around 20 chalets and a range of sports and cultural activities echoing the spirit of the park. Visitors can enjoy a festive treat, fill their gift bags, and enjoy a variety of activities for all ages, including face painting, magic shows, decorating, and more. And, in a nod to the Olympic spirit, winter sports are celebrated with a 200m² ice rink!
When: Nov. 23 – Dec. 29, 2024, Mon. to Sat., 11:00 am – 8:30 pm, Sunday 10:00 am – 8:30 pm
Where: 211 avenue Jean Jaures, 75019 Paris
Cost: Free
Winter Wonderland at the Plaza Athenée
For a truly luxe and gourmet experience, head to one of Paris’s most beautiful hotels, which has turned its interior courtyard into the setting for a cosy alpine châlet. Children between three and 12 years old who attend the Afternoon Tea have access to the much-loved ice rink. Skates provided — all you need to do is soak up the festive atmosphere of La Cour Jardin.
When: Wed-Sun through Feb. 2, 2025, 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm,
Where: Hôtel Plaza Athénée, 25 Av. Montaigne, 75008 Paris
Cost: 200€/person. Check WEBSITE for details and booking
Ice Skating & Winter Games at Parc Astérix
Just 4à minutes from Paris, Parc Astérix offers Gallic-themed holiday fun and winter games for all ages. Explore the Village de la Glisse, featuring a 2500 m² covered skating village with separate ice skating rinks for kids and adults, five sledding slopes, an ice garden for little ones. Enjoy Christmas shows, artisal treats and crafts around the park grounds. Why not make it an overnight getaway at one of the nearby family-friendly hotels?
When: Dec. 21, 2024 – Jan. 5, 2025
Where: Park Astérix, 60128 Plailly
Cost: 54€/person for a Billet Noël. Free for kids under 3. Parking: 20€. Skate rental is free. Gloves required. Visit their WEBSITE for details.
You’ll also find seasonal ice skating rinks in some of the suburbs of Paris and Christmas markets around Ile-de-France. More information HERE.
Enchanting Window Displays and Christmas Shopping
Dior’s Kingdom of Dreams
The flagship boutique of Dior, which has created magical universes both on the façade and inside of its emblematic house. Iconic Parisian monuments stand alongside captivating cuckoo clocks inspired by the brand’s lucky symbols, while iconic Lady Dior and Saddle bags and the Bar suit come to life in a visually enchanting outdoor display. The magic continues with meticulously designed window scenes that retrace the story of great moments in Dior’s history in the form of snow globes, treasure-studded jewellery boxes and other miniature creations. There’s also a pop-up café where you can savor a gourmet interlude in their winter garden.
Les Grands Magasins (Major Department Stores)
In keeping with the tradition of the big department stores in major cities around the world, the Grands Magasins of Paris go all out each year and transform their windows into mini-Winter Wonderlands. Elaborate displays are an orchestra of ornate decorations, scintillating lights, animated figures and music sure to offer a feast for the eyes of visitors of all ages. A perfect stop while doing your Christmas shopping!
Visit the websites of each store for details of their holiday programming and opening hours: Printemps Haussman, Galeries Lafayette, Le Bon Marché, The Samaritaine, and BHV Marais.
Festive Family Fun
If the Parisian Christmas villages, light displays, and ice skating are not enough to keep you entertained, here are some more festive activities your whole family will enjoy both in and around Paris!
An Enchanted Christmas at Disneyland Paris (Marne-la-Vallée)
Kids of all ages will revel in the most enchanting of Christmas wonderlands at the Magic Kingdom, just 35 minutes from Paris by train or car! Mickey Mouse hosts the biggest holiday celebration ever, including a dazzling Christmas Parade, musical performances, spectacular illuminations and fireworks, and special holiday menus at all restaurants. Plus, there’ll be opportunities to meet Santa and the usual Disney cast of characters, all decked out in their finest Christmas attire.
When: Christmas festivities daily until Jan. 6, 2025
Where: Disneyland Paris, 77777 Marne-la-Vallée
Christmas Enchantment at the Jardin d’Acclimatation (Bois de Boulogne)
The Jardin d’Acclimatation is pulling out all the stops to entertain you and your family during the holiday season. Enjoy Christmas-themed shows and rides like the Wonderful Christmas Tree (Sapin Merveilleux), the Christmas River (Rivière de Noël), a brand new 20-meter high Ferris Wheel offering panoramic views, ice skating across a 200m2 ice rink surrounded by charming wooden chalets, and more!
When: Daily until Jan. 12, 2025
Where: Jardin d’Acclimatation, Carrefour des Sablons, Bois de Boulogne. For information and ticketing, visit their WEBSITE.
Regal Holiday Fun in Castles around Paris
The fabulous châteaux around Paris sparkle at their finest with brilliant decorations and special performances during the holiday season! Check each website for more information and ticketing.
Immerse yourself in the festive Baroque atmosphere of the incomparable Château de Versailles. As night falls, Le Parcours du Roi (The King’s Tour) offers an exceptional tour and show, including royal fireworks, musicians, dancers, singers, fencers and actors in period costumes. Expect special appearances from Marie-Antoinette and Baroque Father Christmas also! (Evenings from Dec. 14, 2024 – Jan. 4, 2025)
Step into a 17th-century fairytale at Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte, during its Grand Noël festivities. Experience a magical journey alongside characters from The Nutcracker, Snow White, Little Red Riding Hood, Goldilocks, Alice in Wonderland, and many more. New this year, glide across a temporary ice skating rink! Enjoy activities like a children’s treasure hunt, marshmallow toasting, and stunning light displays. (Nov. 16, 2024 – Jan. 5, 2025)
Celebrate the Spirit of Christmas at the fabulous Château de Fontainebleau, where you can enjoy Baroque, jazz and organ concerts, storytelling, or rent period costumes and follow in the footsteps of a princess living at the Château in the time of Napoleon III and Eugénie. (Dec. 13, 2024 – Jan. 3, 2025)
Embark on a magical journey at the Château de Chantilly with “In the Realm of the Future,” a heartwarming Christmas equestrian spectacle where an Old Angel and a hesitant soul uncover the joys of life through breathtaking artistry, captivating performances, and the enchanting spirit of the season. While you’re there, rent a period costume to meet Santa Claus dressed as a prince or princess—and why not book a chantilly (whipped cream) workshop? (Nov. 30, 2024 – Jan. 5, 2025)
Santa Sightings
For “believers”, a photo with Santa, better known as Père Noël in France, is a must to ensure they get their presents for being nice. It’s amazing how the jolly guy gets around, isn’t it? Here are some places around Paris for your little ones to pay a visit to Father Christmas:
Santa’s Studio at Galeries Lafayette Haussmann
Capture a memorable photo with Santa at the Galeries Lafayette flagship store. While there, kids can drop off a letter with their gift wish list or participate in a puppet-making workshop inspired by a special Christmas story.
Where: In the Coupole of the main store, 5th floor, 51 Boulevard Haussmann, 75009 Paris.
When: Saturdays, Dec. 7, 14 and 21, 10 am – 6 pm. Sundays, Dec 8, 15 and 22, 11 am – 6 pm. Wednesdays, Dec. 11 and 18, 10 am – 6 pm. Monday Dec. 23, 10 am – 6 pm. Tuesday Dec. 24 December, 10 am to 5 pm.
Christmas Market at La Défense
Father Christmas can also be found at the largest Christmas market in the Paris region. Look for him in his special cabin at the Christmas Market of La Defense, where children can deliver their letters and have their picture taken with him!
Where: Esplanade de La Défense, 92800 Puteaux
When: Check the WEBSITE for dates and times
So Ouest Shopping Mall
Get your shopping and Santa snaps at this sleek shopping center on the northwest edge of Paris. Throughout December, kids can also participate in a variety of Christmas-themed creative workshops most afternoons during the holiday season.
Where: Level -1 at the foot of the giant Christmas tree, So Ouest Mall, 31 rue d’Alsace, 92300 Levallois Perret, Place Central, -1 floor
When: Until Dec. 31, 2024, Check the WEBSITE for dates and times
See Santa at the Aquarium of Paris!
For something unique and memorable, watch Santa dive — yes, dive! — amongst the fish at the city’s Aquarium in Trocadéro!
Where: 5 Ave. Albert de Mun, 75016 Paris
When: Saturdays & Sundays, Dec. 9-22; Monday & Tuesday, Dec. 23-29
Christmas Concerts in Historic Settings
What’s Christmas without a bit of Christmas music? From classical music in historic surroundings to traditional Christmas carols in the churches, there are plenty of places where you can get inspired by beautiful voices this month.
Churches serving the Anglophone community:
- The American Church in Paris in the 7th arrondissement is putting on a candlelight Christmas concert on December 14 at 5 pm. and a musical for children on December 15 at 11 am.
- The American Cathedral in the 8th arrondissement is holding festive services with Christmas carols throughout December.
NOTE: Both churches offer Christmas services on December 24th and 25th. Check their websites above for times.
Performances at other locations:
Paris is blessed with a non-stop roster of cultural events, including plenty of seasonal concerts – from classical to Gregorian chants and sacred music – being performed in extraordinary historic settings. The best place to find out what’s on in the classical music scene and to buy tickets is Classictic.com (in English).
Here are some highlights of the Christmas season performances to search for on Classictic.com so you can book your tickets in advance (click on title links for more details and bookings):
Candlelight Concerts
Listen to the music of Queen, Bridgerton, or Christmas movies, as well as some classics like Mozart and Chopin, surrounded by candlelight in magnificent iconic settings of Paris.
When: Dec. 2024 – Jan., 2025
Where: See WEBSITE for details and dates for the Candlelight program
New Year’s Concerts at the Eiffel Tower
Don’t miss your chance to hear classical masterpieces by Vivaldi and Strauss performed by the Orchestre Paris Classik in one of the world’s most famous landmarks: the Eiffel Tower! Book ASAP! Tickets go fast.
Where: Salle Gustave Eiffel, Eiffel Tower, Paris
When: Jan. 1, 2025
Christmas Concerts at La Sainte Chapelle
Gazing at the stunning stained glass windows of the magnificent Gothic La Sainte Chapelle cathedral while enjoying a classical concert is nothing short of magical.
Where: 4 boulevard du Palais, 75001 Paris
When: Dec. 20 – 31, 2024
Classics at l’Eglise de La Madeleine
The historic neo-Classical Église de la Madeleine offers a rich program of classical concerts, from performances of Vivaldi’s Four Seasons to Gounod, Pachelbel, Mozart, and more.
Where: Place de la Madeleine, 75008 Paris
When: Selected dates from Dec. 4, 2024 – Jan. 3, 2025
Dazzling Christmas Lights
They don’t call Paris the City of Light for nothing! By night, the city dazzles as seasonal decorations, luminous arches, and colorful light projections deck the avenues and storefronts across the French capital. More than 150 streets in 70 neighborhoods will be lit up!
The largest display of illuminations is along the entire 2km length of the renowned Avenue des Champs-Elysées. Other popular spots include the adjoining Avenue Montaigne, the grandiose Place Vendôme, the charming Montmartre area which is home to the Sacré Coeur Basilica, and Bercy Village. Stroll by the Paris City Hall (Hôtel de Ville) evenings between December 2nd and 31st for a gorgeous video-mapping show to be projected on the façade of the building in the town square.
Parcours Lumineux (illuminated trails) are becoming more and more popular all over France. These festive immersive experiences, mixing lights, music, sculpture and fun activities for children can be found at the Parc Saint-Cloud, Jardin des Plantes, Parc Floral, Jardin d’Acclimatation and Thoiry Zoo Safari.
For the grande finale on December 31st, everyone’s invited to welcome the new year together on the Avenue des Champs-Elysées. An hour before midnight, the iconic Arc de Triomphe will be illuminated with a vivid light show followed by fireworks when the clock strikes midnight to ring in 2022! Bonnes Fêtes everyone!
