Welcome to 'Things to do in Paris' on this chilly Friday, December 27, 2024. As the holiday season is in full swing, Paris is buzzing with a festive vibe, despite the crisp winter air. The city is adorned with dazzling holiday lights, and the air is filled with the aroma of roasted chestnuts and mulled wine from the various Christmas markets.

Today, there are several exciting events to look forward to. For music lovers, the Candlelight Concert at Saint-Ephrem Church is a must-attend, featuring the works of Chopin, Schubert, Satie, and Beethoven under the soft glow of candlelight. If you're in the mood for something more classical, the Paris Opera Ballet is performing 'Paquita' at the Opera Bastille, a stunning display of balletic elegance[1].

Families and shoppers will delight in the Christmas markets scattered around the city. The Tuileries Christmas Market, located along the north side of the Jardin des Tuileries, offers a magical atmosphere with beautifully decorated chalets and a wide range of gourmet artisan products. Another highlight is the Notre Dame Christmas Market at Square Viviani, which features French crafts, gastronomy, and free entertainment for children, including a visit from Santa Claus[1][2].

For those looking for a unique experience, the Galeries Lafayette is a treat, with its animated window displays and a giant Christmas tree celebrating the store's 130th Christmas. This special edition, designed by Kevin Germanier, promises enchantment and light[2][5].

In local news, the City of Paris has moved its famous Christmas market from the Hôtel de Ville to the Place de la Concorde, offering a host of exciting events and gift ideas until January 5, 2025. Public transit users should note that while metro stations around the Champs Elysées will be closed on New Year's Eve for the grand celebrations, other metro and RER lines will remain operational[1][5].

If you're looking for something off the beaten path, consider exploring the hidden gems of Paris. Villa Léandre in Montmartre is a colorful art deco street with a charming old English vibe, complete with vines crawling up buildings and classic lantern street lamps. Another hidden gem is the Passage Mouffetard, a secret cobblestone street filled with potted plants and hanging vines, tucked away behind the bustling Rue Mouffetard[3].

Here’s a local tip: To navigate like a local, use the Velib bike-sharing service to explore the city, especially during the less crowded morning hours. Also, don’t miss the opportunity to try some hot chocolate at a traditional Parisian café, a perfect way to warm up on a chilly winter day.

As we wrap up today’s highlights, keep an eye out for tomorrow’s events. The weekend promises to be filled with more Christmas markets, the Festival du Merveilleux, and an ice rink in Provins. Stay tuned for more updates and insider tips on how to make the most of your time in the City of Light. Until next time, à bientôt

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI