Ways to Celebrate Christmas and New Year's Eve in Paris

Enjoy the City of Light during the most sparkling season of all.

Aug. 15, 2017

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By Leah Still Joll

Ways to Celebrate Christmas and New Year's Eve in Paris

Hi, I'm Leah!

Leah Still Joll is a freelance writer based in San Francisco with a specialty in travel writing. Her favorite destinations include Maui, Sayulita, the Northern California coast, Paris, Morocco, Indonesia, and Western Australia.

Whether you're spending Christmas or New Year's Eve in Paris with friends, family, or your sweetheart, there are a variety of ways to get into the holiday spirit in the most stylish of cities. Here are our top options for seasonal things to do.

Go Christmas shopping

Galeries Lafayette always goes all out at Christmas. Photo: Luciano Mortula - LGM / Shutterstock

Where better than the fashion capital of the world?

Head to Galeries Lafayette department store, one of Paris' most famous shopping venues, to admire its extravagant holiday decorations and do some designer shopping for your loved ones back home.

See the city illuminated

Paris really lives up to its name "The City of Light" over the holidays. Photo: MarinaD_37 / Shutterstock

Watch as Paris comes aglow for the season.

The City of Light is best seen at night, when Paris' architectural landmarks are lit up in all their glory. A holiday illuminations tour allows you to admire the twinkling city and River Seine with a guide, so you don't have to worry about finding your way around after dark. Some tours even include dinner.

Indulge in seasonal specialties

Tuck into local favorites and seasonal snacks, such as cake pops. Photo: MarinaD_37 / Shutterstock

Paris is a food fan's dream destination.

Sample holiday treats and learn about Christmas food traditions in France with a gourmet food tour. You'll visit Christmas markets and sweets shops for a festive twist on a popular Paris experience.

Catch a New Year's Eve cabaret

The Moulin Rouge is a Parisian must, especially at Christmas. Photo: Pierre Morel / Viator

Parisian nightlife doesn't stop for the winter.

Add a sexy spin to your New Year's Eve celebration in Paris with a holiday performance at one of the city's cabaret venues, such as Moulin Rouge, Le Paradis Latin, or Crazy Horse. Ring in the new year with Champagne, and perhaps opt for a showing that includes dinner to enhance your experience.