Why Visit Paris in December
Post by Jenny Bailey
From the glistening of Christmas lights to the city’s silver white winters, there’s no denying that December is one of the best times of year to visit Paris.
So whether you’re keen to step out into the crisp wintry air, or you’d rather stay snug indoors, here’s what’s going on in and around the capital to help you make the most of your voyage en ville.
30 November – 26 December
Christmas Concerts
Nothing gets you in the Christmas spirit like the seasonal concerts at La Sainte-Chapelle. From traditional carols to festive pieces dating back to the Renaissance and Baroque periods, the Gothic-style church is one of the best spots to go for classical music. For tickets and times, click here.
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From December 1
Open-Air Ice Rinks
Whether you’re crazy for Christmas or a bit of a Scrooge, one of the best parts about winter in Paris is the outdoor ice skating. Some of our favourites include the rinks at Hotel de Ville, Eiffel Tower and Trocadéro. The kicker? Other than the €5 hire fee for the skates, each rink is free entry – just remember to pack a pair of your warmest gloves!
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6-7 December
Le Grand Tasting
If this beverage-based event doesn’t help warm the cockles, we don’t know what will. Taking place at the Carrousel du Louvre shopping centre, the 8th annual event promises two full days packed with wine tasting experiences. The sessions (from master classes to workshops) last about 45 minutes and include samples of four to five different wines including Moët et Chandon and Château Lafite. Santé! For tickets and more information, check out the official site here.
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7-15 December
Les Faeries d’Auteuil
Taking place in the 16th arrondissement on 40 rue Jean de La Fontaine, this is one of the city’s biggest Christmas extravaganzas – featuring Christmas markets and the famous nativity display (crèche). Not only is there a cozy seasonal setting, but you’ll be able to check off your Christmas shopping all while supporting children in need – as the proceeds go to charity. Parfait!
And finally, if you need a good place to stay that won’t eat into your Christmas budget, have a look at the deals from Holiday Discount Centre.
Interesting – you and I didn’t actually overlap on much this month! http://burnt-cream.overblog.com/2013/11/christmas-in-paris-2013.html
Great list you have! 🙂
Thanks for this post Melissa! I always couldn’t stand Paris in the winter because all the gardens were dead and the trees were leafless but this post showed that there are plenty of fun things to do in Paris this winter.
Andrea, Paris is fabulous this time of year! It’s February and March when we start feeling the fatigue and are in dire need of sunshine.
I was in Paris last December (2013) for ten days, and my husband & I had the best vacation, ever!! I had only been in December (until September of 2014), & everyone at home (central coast of California) always asks WHY?!
Why??? Because December in Paris is lit up like a diamond dusted sugar cube, because the fancy hotels have deliourously cozy/snug winter “ice bars” to snuggle in (oftentimes wrapping ourselves up in thick blankets generously provided by the hotel), because the streets have decorations that are eclectic, simply beautiful in only a way that works in Paris, because store-fronts are a sight to see & a wonderland unto themselves, because walking hand in hand with your love at night on the banks of the Seine is so über romantic – at any stage of your life or relationship. Oh, I could go on & on & on. I. Love. Paris. In. December. ❤️
Lori, I love your description of Paris in December!!!