Published on November 27, 2024

Twinkling Lights to Festive Bites

By Rita Duggan

Image credit: Mary Brooks Bruner

Your Ultimate Paris Holiday Bucket List

Paris is a dream destination year-round, but there’s something undeniably magical about the City of Lights during the holiday season. From the glittering Champs-Élysées to festive Christmas markets and dazzling displays in iconic department stores, the city transforms itself into a winter wonderland. Whether you’re sipping chocolat chaud or exploring enchanting light shows, Paris promises a holiday season to remember. Here are some must-see activities this winter:

Lights, Lights, Lights

“Oh, Champs-Élysées!” (8th arrondissement)

The world-famous Champs-Élysées is aglow during the holiday season, with over 400 trees adorned in shimmering balloon glass garlands. These dazzling lights sparkle every 15 minutes and stretch all the way to a stunning 44-foot-tall Christmas tree near the Arc de Triomphe.

When? Installed on November 24, the lights will shine nightly from 5 PM to midnight (1 AM on Fridays and Saturdays), and they’ll stay on all night long on December 24 and 31.
Special Event: On New Year’s Eve, a spectacular countdown will culminate in more than 3,000 fireworks set to French music.

Cost? Free!

Dinosaurs in Lights

Jardin des Plantes Festival of Lights (5th arrondissement)

This year’s Jurassique en Voie d’Illumination at the Jardin des Plantes is a fun journey back in time. Discover glowing lanterns shaped like Jurassic-era plants and animals in this unique outdoor exhibit, celebrating biodiversity and the wonders of the natural world.

When? Open nightly from November 20 to January 19, 6 PM to 10 PM.

Cost? Tickets range from 15€ to 18€.

Tuileries Christmas Market / Image credit: Mary Brooks Bruner

“Deck the Stalls” – Parisian Christmas Markets

Tuileries Garden Christmas Market (1st arrondissement)

Home of the infamous Ferris Wheel, the Tuileries market stretches from the Louvre to Place de la Concorde. This market offers over a hundred charming wooden chalets. Browse for handcrafted gifts, sample seasonal French delicacies, and sip mulled wine as you wander through this festive setting.

When? November 16 to January 1; Monday–Thursday & Sunday, 11:00–23:45; Friday–Saturday, 11:00–00:45.

Cost? Free entry, but, budget ~20€ for treats, souvenirs and activities.

Saint-Germain-des-Prés Market (6th arrondissement)

Nestled next to the church, on the dazzling corner of Saint Germain des Prés and Rue Bonaparte, this market is a foodie’s dream. Indulge in tartiflette (a warm, cheesy potato dish), gourmet foie gras, or sweet pretzels. The little picturesque village is perfect for a cozy and upscale holiday experience.

When? November 27 to January 5, 10 AM–9 PM.

Cost? Free entry, but, budget ~20€ for food.

A Fancy Holiday Brunch

A Toast at the Ritz (1st arrondissement)

Celebrate the 100-year anniversary of Surrealism in style at the Ritz Paris. With nods to iconic guests like Salvador Dalí and André Breton, the hotel invites you to indulge in their holiday offerings, including the classic bûche de Noël and themed cocktails.

When? Sundays in December, from 12 PM to 2:30 PM.

Cost? It varies—champagne and cocktails start at 35€.

Champs-Élysées Christmas tree / Image credit: Rita Duggan

“Windows to Wonderland” – Department Store Displays

Samaritaine (1st arrondissement)

A whimsical display of lantern sculptures, fantastical creatures, and glowing foliage. Butterflies, snails, and mushrooms take center stage in this enchanted scene.

Printemps Haussmann (9th arrondissement)

This year’s Christmas theme revolves around a festive train journey. Over 100 handcrafted characters made from recycled materials bring this delightful display to life.

Galeries Lafayette (9th arrondissement)

A spectacular Christmas tree towers over the atrium, surrounded by twinkling garlands and immersive decorations.

When? Displays are up throughout December—check individual store schedules.