December is a particularly festive month in Paris, as most of it is dedicated to Christmas. In general, Paris in the winter can be a wonderful experience, and of course, the Christmas period is a great time to visit the City of Lights.
Christmas markets in Paris
One of the main attractions of Paris during December (and a bit of November) is the Christmas markets, which are scattered throughout the city. These are festive markets where you can wander, buy unique gifts and enjoy Parisian winter cuisine. Don't forget to drink a glass of mulled wine while enjoying the sparkling lights, and of course eat roasted chestnuts or chocolate.
There are about 15-20 major markets in Paris during Christmas, including the market at Notre Dame, the Christmas market in the Tuileries Gardens, the market at the Hôtel de Ville, and more. This number does not include all sorts of pop-up markets that appear at different times each year and are there for a short time – usually a few days. In addition, there are tiny markets in different neighborhoods – quite a few nice stalls – that you can come across while wandering around the city.
Want to know everything about the Paris Christmas markets 2024? Click here
Christmas display in the shop windows
The famous department stores of Paris – Galeries Lafayette, Haussmann, Bon Marche, BHV and La Samaritaine will be displaying their Christmas window decorations throughout December. These are unique and elaborate window designs, and fun is guaranteed for adults and children alike. The displays are not always static, and there are also dancing, performances and other nice gimmicks.
Concerts in Paris during December
Since it's cold and you don't always feel like wandering the city streets, you can and should take advantage of your trip to Paris to listen to a quality concert. During Christmas, and in general in December, there are quite a few concerts in the City of Lights, most of them inside stunningly beautiful churches. Even if you're not a big fan of classical music, the city also has jazz and pop concerts during the cold winter. A particularly famous concert is The concert at the Eiffel Tower, which takes place on December 24, 2024. The concert will feature famous classical works such as Vivaldi's The Four Seasons, Schubert's Ave Maria, and more.
Many more concerts will be held at the theater Champs Elysees, Saint-Eustache Church, Saint-Sulpice Church, Saint Severin Church and more. To search for a concert, you can use On this site.
Christmas at Disneyland Paris
There is no doubt that Christmas is a festive occasion inDisneyland ParisAnd if you don't mind a little cold, this is a special time to visit the huge park. There will of course be a large Christmas tree, various shows, Christmas parades and Christmas decorations like in the movies.
This year, Christmas events at EuroDisney will take place from November 9, 2024 to January 6, 2025. Among other things, Disneyland promises a special Mickey Mouse parade this year – Mickey's Dazzling Christmas Parade. You can also enjoy the Christmas tree lighting, musical performances and a spectacular sound and light show in the park's sky.
Hanukkah celebrations in Paris
December is dedicated not only to Christmas, but also to our Hanukkah holiday. And what could be more fitting than the Festival of Lights for the City of Lights? The Paris Festival of Lights will begin on December 25 and continue until December 2, 2024.
You can enjoy giant menorahs that will be placed in various locations in Paris. The first candle lighting ceremony will take place at Place de la Republique in the 10th arrondissement, and a Hasidic concert will be held on the Champs de Mars.
Menorah lighting times in Paris this year
- First candle – Thursday, December 25, at 19:30 PM – Republic Square (Place de la République), Quarters 3/10/11
- Second candle – December 26 – No public lighting ceremony
- Third candle – December 27, at 20:00 PM – Place du Châtelet, 1st arrondissement
- Fourth candle – December 28, at 20:00 PM – Champs de Mars, in front of Eiffel Tower, District 7
- Fifth candle – December 29, at 19:30 PM – Place de la Bastille, 4/10/11 arrondissements
- Friday candle – December 30, at 19:30 PM – Place des Fêtes, 19th arrondissement
- Seventh candle – December 31, at 19:30 PM – Place du Maréchal Juin, 17th arrondissement
- Eighth candle – January 2, at 18:00 PM – Place de l'Opéra, 9th arrondissement
Performances in Paris in December 2024
There are some particularly hot shows this winter in Paris. Unfortunately I can't provide a direct link to tickets for each show, but you can search using This link.
Don't forget to also check out the article on The special shows in Paris during Christmas (Cabarets, cruises on the Seine, etc.).
Slipknot
Slipknot, one of the world's leading metal bands, is known for its unique style that combines aggressive metal with theatrical elements and unique masked costumes. The band was formed in 1995 in the state of Iowa in the United States and became a legend in the metal scene thanks to hits such as "Duality" and "Psychosocial."
In 2024, Slipknot will celebrate 25 years of activity with a celebratory world tour. The Paris show, which will take place on December 12 at the Accor Arena, promises an unforgettable metal experience.
DIE ANTWORD
DIE ANTWOORD, the groundbreaking South African duo, is known for its unique blend of hip-hop, electronica and a unique visual style. The lineup, which includes Ninja and Yolandi Visser, creates innovative music that combines bold lyrics, powerful beats and an aesthetic that challenges conventions. DIE ANTWOORD has become a global phenomenon with hits like “Enter the Ninja” and “I Fink U Freeky”, along with unmissable music videos and a dizzying stage energy.
The shows will feature the biggest hits alongside new material. The duo will perform on December 11, 2024 at L'OLYMPIA in Paris.
Paul McCartney
Sir Paul McCartney for you, one of the most influential musicians in history, will perform in Paris on December 4, 2024 at the La Defense Arena.
In this concert, part of his European tour, McCartney will perform hits from all periods of his career, including songs from The Beatles, Wings and his illustrious solo career. Expect live performances of classics such as “Hey Jude”, “Let It Be” and “Live and Let Die”. The performance at La Defense Arena, one of the largest and most modern venues in Paris, promises a musical experience full of nostalgia.
Paris weather in December
There is no doubt that December in Paris is romantic and beautiful, but also cold and wet. Temperatures range from 3-7 degrees, and although it is not very cold compared to other European cities, the high humidity in the city makes it feel colder than it really is. Rain is of course expected to come often – there are an average of 15 rainy days in December in Paris, although the amount of rain is usually not huge.
It sometimes snows in Paris during December, but it doesn’t happen often, and when it does, it’s light and doesn’t accumulate on the ground. That means you’re unlikely to experience a “white Christmas.” There’s sometimes ice on the sidewalks, so walk carefully, and be prepared for cold winds as well.
You are welcome to read more about Paris weather And how to dress in his honor.