Christmas in Paris
Our 3 things to do at Christmas in Paris may appear a bit before its time, however we wanted you to know what’s going on in Paris during the best holiday season so you can start planning your visit to this stunning city. There is an abundance of things to do, and the atmosphere is so festive and warm, the Christmas lights so enchanting, and the smell of mulled wine so intoxicating that the city is just buzzing at this time of year. So, we have listed 3 things that are going on in Paris all in the spirit of festive fun, and which we are sure that you will enjoy!
Champs Elysées Christmas lights
The famous Champs Elysées Christmas lights are a must see because towards the end of November the trees lining this prestigious shopping avenue are decked out in all their holiday finery and lit up in a stunning and illuminating array of sparkling lights. Other places that are particularly worth checking out for their fabulous Christmas decorations are the Notre Dame graced with a stunning Christmas tree at the front, Rue Mouffetard, Rue Montorgeuil, the big department stores such as Galeries Lafayette which do the city proud with their gorgeous window displays, and finally the Eiffel Tower in all its festive glory. The exact date of the Champs Elysées Christmas lights switch-on ceremony is yet to be confirmed but we will keep you posted as it is not an event to be missed. Finally, to fully appreciate the City of Lights in its festive outfit, what better than climb the Arc de Triomphe with all the splendour of the Christmas lights illuminating the beautiful Champs Elysées and admiring the view from the top of this fabulous monument.
Christmas markets
These stunning and rather exciting Christmas markets in Paris usually grace the city of Paris from the end of November to the end of December and are situated in various locations of the city. The merchandise comprises festive goods and food, including artisan products, mulled wine (vin chaud), cheese, gingerbread, specialities from different regions of France, handcrafted toys, winter clothing, gifts, nativity scenes, ornaments, free merry-go-round rides in some, decorations, hand-made jewellery, sweets and treats, and foods from all over the world, amongst others sold from charming wooden huts. They are as equally nice if you would just like a stroll around to admire the goods on sale, and there are a number in Paris that are particularly popular, namely the one that graces the front of the Saint Sulpice Church, the Market located in La Defense which is just stunning, Place Saint Germain-des-Pres Christmas market, and last but not least the market on the Champs Elysées.
Ice Rinks and Ferris Wheels
During the Christmas season Paris has temporary ice-rinks and Ferris wheels gracing the city in various locations which is definitely a festive activity that you can enjoy with your family and friends. The best ice rinks are usually set up in front of the Paris City Hall (Hotel de Ville), and there is a particularly exciting looking one near Gare Montparnasse. Entrance to the rinks are free but you may have to pay a few euros to rent the ice-skates. The Ferris Wheels (Grand Roue) are set up for the entertainment of visitors and locals alike in December until the end of January, and the largest is set up at the other end of the Champs Elysées with the Arc de Triomphe gracing the other side of the famous Paris avenue. Food and mulled wine is usually sold at the bottom of the Ferris Wheel, as well as roasted chestnuts on the street and candy floss.
All these events and more make Paris a definite destination this holiday season, so let the City of Lights illuminate your Christmas, and light up your New Year.
Anna – Marketing Team
