When it comes to winter wonderlands, Paris consistently ranks among the top. The City of Light becomes a mesmerizing hub of festive cheer during the holiday season. From glittering lights to unique decorations, Paris blends tradition and modernity, leaving visitors with unforgettable winter memories. This year, we’re highlighting four must-visit attractions that showcase the magic of Paris during the holidays. Begin your journey at the iconic Galeries Lafayette, celebrating its 130th anniversary with a dazzling display. Next, explore the charming Christmas market in the Tuileries Garden. Take in the golden glow of the Champs-Élysées, and finally, skate your way into history at the newly restored Grand Palais ice rink.
Galeries Lafayette: A Magical 130th Anniversary Christmas
Galeries Lafayette, the centerpiece of Parisian holiday celebrations, is marking its 130th anniversary with a spectacular display.
This year, the store has partnered with Kevin Germanié, the designer behind the costumes for the Paris Paralympic closing ceremony, to craft decorations that blend tradition, innovation, and sustainability.
The highlight is a magnificent Christmas tree under the store’s iconic dome. Its design draws inspiration from 1950s holiday windows and the recently restored Byzantine-style façade, incorporating advanced technology.
The tree’s crown features fiber-optic flames, echoing Germanié’s dress designs and adding a magical touch. Decorated with 20,000 pink LED lights in a chandelier-like arrangement, the tree also produces a dazzling sound and light show every 30 minutes. As part of its commitment to sustainability, the store’s window displays feature characters dressed in costumes made from recycled materials.
This year’s theme, Light, celebrates Galeries Lafayette’s signature aesthetic and Paris’s identity as the City of Light.
To add to the festivities, the store has created a Wicked-themed atrium. Follow the yellow brick road to find a tree inspired by the musical and exclusive merchandise.
Toy lovers can enjoy FAO Schwarz’s pop-up shop and Jellycat’s plush toys inspired by French pastries. Visitors can also enjoy parades, gift-wrapping stations, and charity events throughout the season.
Tuileries Garden: A Christmas Market in the Heart of Paris
The beloved Tuileries Garden Christmas Market has returned, delighting Parisians and visitors alike. Nestled between the Louvre Museum and Place de la Concorde, the Tuileries Garden offers the perfect spot to soak up the festive atmosphere right in the heart of Paris. This year, the market features over 80 wooden chalets, creating a charming holiday experience. Visitors can enjoy holiday classics like mulled wine, hot chocolate, and waffles while browsing local crafts and souvenirs.
This festive market isn’t just about shopping and food—it’s a winter playground for all ages. Glide across the ice rink, enjoy breathtaking views from the Ferris wheel, or take a nostalgic spin on the carousel. Open daily from 11 AM to 11:45 PM through January 1, it’s a must-visit holiday destination.
Champs-Élysées: A Golden River of Light
On November 24, the annual Champs-Élysées lighting ceremony marked the start of the holiday season. Tony Estanguet, president of the Paris 2024 Olympic Committee, attended the event, which drew large crowds of locals and visitors.
This year’s display features over 400 trees adorned with shimmering golden LED lights, combining eco-friendly design with festive brilliance. The lights shine from 5 PM to midnight on weekdays until 1 AM on Fridays and Saturdays. On December 24 and 31, they will stay on all night, creating a magical atmosphere.
Adding to the charm, a 44-foot-tall Christmas tree, the largest in Paris, has been installed, complementing the golden glow of the avenue.
Grand Palais: Gliding into Winter Wonder
After a five-year hiatus, the Grand Palais des Glaces has reopened with a 32,300-square-foot indoor ice rink under its iconic glass roof. The rink will be open from December 14 to January 8, 2025.
During the day, visitors can skate under natural sunlight streaming through the glass roof, while evenings feature vibrant DJ performances and stunning light shows. Families with children can enjoy a dedicated safety area, making it a fun and secure experience for all ages. Visitors can warm up with classic French winter treats like crepes, waffles, and hot chocolate to complete the festive vibe.
The Grand Palais is also a site of historical significance. It hosted fencing events during the 2024 Paris Olympics, making it a venue steeped in Olympic glory. Skating here provides a unique opportunity to enjoy winter festivities while connecting with a piece of Olympic history.
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