All Things Christmas in Paris
Paris has undergone the most magical of transformations for the holiday season. It’s hard to miss the garlands and lights adorning streets and neighborhoods. In addition to Christmas markets, there are dozens of other events occurring in the city in honor of the holiday season.
1. Ice skating rinks
What's more Christmas-y than gliding on ice with a hot chocolate in your hand? Paris has several rinks open during the holidays, all of which are suitably for beginners and experts alike.
Image credit: Flickr/fsse8info
Hotel de Ville
The 1,365 square meter rink includes a smaller area for children and beginners. Access is free if you bring your own skates, and 6 Euros if you need to borrow them on site. Be sure to check it out after sundown when the building is lit up against the sky. The Hôtel de Ville rink runs from December 18th to March 1st.
Patinoire du village de Noël des Champs-Elysées
In addition to the Christmas market, the Champs-Elysées also hosts a ice skating rink and a giant slide for children. Entry to this rink is 10 Euros for adults and 8 Euros for children under 12. The Champs Elysée Christmas market rink will run from November 13th 2015-January 3rd 2016.
Trocadéro on Ice
This rink is also paired with a Christmas market, lasting two weeks, from December 18th to January 3rd. Skate under the shadow of the Eiffel Tower at this 300 square meter rink. It is ideal for amateur skaters.
2. Christmas Lights
For a free treat, check out these lit-up streets and districts around the city. The magical colors create dazzling sites for tourists and Parisians alike, who eagerly await the illuminated streets all year.
Image credit: Flickr/Taryn
Avenue des Champs Elysées
The most beautiful boulevard in the world becomes even more astonishing during for Christmas and New Years as eco-friendly lights adorn the trees lining the entire boulevard. The lights last from November 17th to January 6th.
Faubourg Saint-Honoré
Rue de Faubourg Saint-Honoré is lit up with chandelier lights created by famous crystal maker, Baccarat. The decor will be in place from November 17th to January 7th.
Place Vendôme
This square, located in the 1st arrondissement north of Tuileries Gardens, is elegantly lit up with decorations and a majestic tree. The adornments last from November 20th to January 10th.
Avenue Montaigne
One of the radiating streets off the Arc de Triomphe, Avenue Montaigne has decor which reflects the wealthy, chic stores of the area. The enchanting decor lasts from November to January.
3. Themed Events
Certain venues and events somehow get even better during the holidays.
Image credit: Flickr/Binu Nair
Christmas and New Years at Disneyland Paris
Disneyland becomes transformed into a winter wonderland with garlands, festive decorations, and wandering carolers serenading guests. As the sun sets try and get a glimpse of Santa Clause at Sleeping Beauty's Castle. Don't miss out on the parades and fireworks, which are also holiday themed, and extra cheerful, particularly on New Years when there will be a fireworks extravaganza.
Concerts at Sainte Chapelle
During the month of December, Sainte Chapelle hosts special Christmas concerts. They are bit on the pricier side, starting at 54 Euros, however the acoustics are fantastic and the venue is as rare as it gets. Find out more about dates and prices here.
The holiday season in Paris is a magical and enchanting time, so try and do as much as you can while you're here!
