Christmas 2025 in Paris

Christmas in Paris: when the City of Light truly lives up to its name

Photo credit: Amandine Goetz

As the festive season approaches, Paris dons its finest lights. Every year, from the end of November onwards, the French capital is transformed into a magical setting where traditions, gastronomy and entertainment combine with the magic of Christmas. From the Champs-Élysées to Montmartre, from department store windows to neighbourhood markets, everything comes together to make Paris an unmissable destination for celebrating the end of the year.

 

Spectacular illuminations

Photo credit: Amandine Goetz

A symbol of the season, Paris's Christmas lights attract millions of visitors every winter. The Champs-Élysées, often referred to as ‘the most beautiful avenue in the world’, is lit up with thousands of golden and red LED garlands. Iconic squares such as Vendôme, Concorde and République compete for attention, while Haussmann-style façades are adorned with elegant decorations. Even historic monuments, from the Eiffel Tower to the Opéra Garnier, join in the festivities with light shows and projections.

 

Enchanted shop windows and Christmas markets

Photo credit: Amandine Goetz

The animated window displays of the department stores on Boulevard Haussmann remain a much-anticipated tradition. Every year, Galeries Lafayette and Printemps unveil a themed world where puppets, miniature sets and interactive technologies delight young and old alike. Inside, a huge Christmas tree stands beneath the famous glass dome, often accompanied by a sound and light show.
When it comes to markets, Paris is not to be outdone: the Tuileries Garden market attracts thousands of visitors every winter. Wooden chalets, local crafts, mulled wine and Alsatian specialities create a convivial atmosphere. Other more intimate markets, such as those in Saint-Germain-des-Prés or La Défense, offer a more authentic and family-friendly atmosphere.

 

The festive spirit throughout the city

Photo credit: Amandine Goetz

The Christmas season is also synonymous with culture and entertainment. Traditional carol concerts in churches, ballets at the Palais Garnier, musicals and special exhibitions punctuate the month of December. Temporary ice rinks – notably the one in front of City Hall – allow visitors to enjoy the Parisian winter in a magnificent setting.
In restaurants and bakeries, chefs compete to be the most creative: revisited Yule logs, gourmet menus and exceptional chocolates showcase French culinary expertise.

 

A magical and timeless capital city

Photo credit: Amandine Goetz

Christmas in Paris is above all an experience. It is the experience of a city that combines elegance and warmth, tradition and modernity. Whether you come to admire the lights, enjoy a glass of champagne or simply stroll along the Seine, the magic of Christmas is in the air at every turn. In December, the City of Light shines not only with its monuments, but also with the spirit of the festive season.

 

In practice: Christmas in Paris 2025

Illuminations
Champs-Élysées: from 24 November 2025 to 5 January 2026. Lights switch on every evening from 5pm.
Place Vendôme, Montmartre, Saint-Germain-des-Prés: from the last week of November.

Christmas markets
Tuileries Garden: from 15 November 2025 to 5 January 2026. Free admission.
La Défense: over 150 chalets, from 20 November to 28 December 2025.
Saint-Germain-des-Prés: from 30 November to 6 January 2026.

Pop-up ice rinks
Town Hall: free admission, skate hire available on site.
Trocadéro: breathtaking views of the Eiffel Tower.

Not to be missed
The Christmas window displays at Galeries Lafayette and Printemps Haussmann (from 20 November).
The giant Christmas tree in Place de la Concorde.
Christmas concerts at the Madeleine Church or Notre-Dame de Paris (if reopening is confirmed).

Access
The festive venues are accessible by underground, bus or RER. Expect large crowds on weekends in December.

 

Featured image: Amandine Goetz