#pariswinter

‘Tis the season and those in the northern hemisphere are wrapping up in their winter best, drinking mulled wine under sparkling lights, and indulging in comfort food. However, for those in the southern hemisphere, the Christmas season is quite the opposite.

I moved from New Zealand to Paris in September 2020. Just a few months later, I experienced my first-ever winter Christmas. Back home, Christmas time falls at the start of our summer. Therefore, for the 22 years before I’d spent the holiday season on sandy beaches and enjoying long summer nights outdoors.

Like many Kiwis, a normal Christmas day for me would usually involve a big barbeque lunch, followed by a trip to the beach, and then a rowdy outdoor dinner. The festive vibe in my corner of the globe is a balmy one. Even our depiction of Santa alludes to it. Fast forward to December 2020 and I found myself piling on layers instead of slipping into a summer dress. The catch is, I loved it. There is something magical about a winter Christmas that summer cannot quite grasp.

For those who are new to the winter experience like me, or if you’re just a Christmas enthusiast, here are some things you can do to truly embrace the winter magic of Christmas in Paris.

Visit the Big Department Stores

Keeping the chilly winter weather in mind, an easy way to stay warm while seizing Christmas delight is by visiting the displays at some of the big Parisian department stores. Some of the best include BHV Marais, Le Bon Marché, and Printemps, all of which dress up their windows and interiors with elaborate and beautiful displays each year. However, my personal favorite is Galeries Lafayette, where you’ll find a giant and colorful Christmas tree perfectly placed under its central dome.

Check Out the Light Displays

Moving from inside to outdoors, many of Paris’ famous boulevards and streets transform into dazzling scenes at Christmas. Most famous is le Champs-Élysées, which lights itself up with millions of bulbs in an assortment of Christmas colors and illuminations. Some other places where you’ll find brilliant and beautiful light displays are on Boulevard Haussmann, Place Vendôme, and Bercy Village.

Go to the Christmas Markets

Paris’ famous Christmas markets are making a comeback after being cancelled last year due to Covid. Enjoy more light spectacles, shop for Christmas nick-nacks, and munch on some delicious food at markets in Hôtel de Ville, Saint-Germain-des-Prés, or La Défense. However, for the ultimate market experience, head to La Magie de Noël at the Jardin des Tuileries, which is jam-packed with winter shenanigans, Christmas-themed rides, small gift shops, and more.

Enjoy Some Ice Skating

For the more adventurous, Paris rolls out dozens of ice skating rinks around Christmas. You’ll find many rinks in the markets listed above, however I recommend visiting the rink at Bercy Village, or if you’re wanting something more extreme, head to La Defense and skate at 110m high on top of its Grande Arche.

Enjoy a Festive Meal Out

Wintertime always calls for comfort food – especially during Christmas. If you’re not in the mood to cook a winter feast this year, many Paris restaurants are open on Christmas Eve and Day, prepped with special festive menus. Check out Paris staples such as Le Marché du Lucas or Le Train Bleu. However, if you’re wanting a truly unforgettable experience, reserve yourself a spot for Christmas lunch or dinner on a bateau-mouche and cruise along the Seine with stunning views of Paris as well as a fine meal.

Sample Vin Chaud & Other Christmas Goodies in Montmartre

Searching for that dreamy Paris Christmas vibe? There is no better place to head than Montmartre. You’ll find yet another magical market here at Abbesses. Head up the hill towards Place de Tertre for even more Christmas festivities as well as delicious vin chaud stands (mulled wine) to keep you warm on a cold night. Better yet, take your hot drink to the steps of the Sacré-Coeur and enjoy a view of all the Christmas lights scattered across Paris.

Indulge in Winter Sweet Treats

It wouldn’t be Christmas without sweet treats, and of course the French do them very well. A few classics include roasted chestnuts and pain d’épices (gingerbread), but the mother of all French Christmas desserts is the bûche de Noël (a log-shaped sponge cake). This elaborately decorated dessert is a Christmas staple across France and can be found in almost all boulangeries and patisseries during the holiday season. The chocolate log is a crowd favorite, and you can find a variety of flavors including vanilla, pistachio, berry, and more.

Photo credits: fevrier-photography