Exhibitions, musicals, illuminations... During the holiday season in Paris and the Paris region, the Grand Palais is transformed into a giant ice rink, the Parc de la Villette into a festive gourmet market, and the Thoiry Zoo into an enchanted forest... Intrigued? We have plenty more ideas! Here's a quick overview of family outings to enjoy when the cold weather sets in...
Immerse yourself in a dreamlike world at the Jardin des Plantes
Jardin des Plantes, Paris, France
For several years now, during the holiday season, the Jardin des Plantes in Paris has been inviting us into the grounds of the National Museum of Natural History for a magical interlude. Young and old alike can enjoy a themed light-up walk to discover animals and plants represented through incredible giant light sculptures. Not to be missed: wonder guaranteed!
Jardin des Plantes - “En Voie d'illumination”
(On the Path to Illumination) - November 12, 2025, to January 18, 2026
Skate in incredible places in Paris
It's time to put on a hat and gloves! Like every year, temporary ice rinks are set up along the banks of the Seine, and on the rooftops and gardens of Paris. Put on your skates and enjoy the view. For the first time, the terrace of the Aquarium in the Trocadéro gardens is transformed into a giant icy rink, with a breathtaking view of the Eiffel Tower at every turn. For the fifth consecutive year, the Grand Palais will set up the largest ice rink in the world under its nave: 2,700 m2 (29,062 sq. ft.) of icy magic! The sliding madness also seizes the docks of the Seine. With Polpo Nord, an ephemeral spot awaits you every weekend on the quays of Levallois. Another must-see place? The roof of the Grand Arche de la Défense. Dress warmly, because you are going to skate at 110 meters (361 feet) above the ground. But you will have the chance to see a magnificent view of all of Paris.
Le Grand Palais des Glaces : December 13, 2025, to January 7, 2026.
Re-live the magic of Disney
As every year, Disney on Ice comes to Paris during the holiday season before touring throughout France. A magical show featuring 50 iconic Disney characters. It's a chance to see Frozen with Anna, Elsa, and Olaf, Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin, Nemo, The Lion King, Donald Duck, and Goofy all in the same show. What more could you ask for? Mickey serves as Master of Ceremonies, accompanied by his beautiful Minnie.
Disney on Ice - at the Adidas Arena in Paris from December 31, 2025, to January 11, 2026, and on tour throughout France.
Flying outdoors at the Villette funfair
Stilt walkers, ice dancers, choirs, and DJs—the holiday season promises to be spectacular at Parc de la Villette! Dozens of attractions have been set up at Place de la Fontaine aux Lions and La Villette Christmas market in northern Paris. There's no better way to warm up and find gift ideas from the artisans on hand. Food lovers can also savor Alpine specialties at the fondue and raclette stands.
And to prolong the magic of Christmas, follow an illuminated trail through Parc de la Villette after dark to discover five artistic installations.
Christmas at La Villette - November 20 to December 28, 2025
Light Cycles - October 31, 2025, to March 8, 2026.
Attend a magical show at the Thoiry zoo
A must-see event: the animal park of Thoiry is being transformed this winter. At nightfall, luminous sculptures will invade the paths of the park, and a lantern show will drive spectators through an enchanted forest. See the great odyssey and evolution the underwater world, as well as monkeys, birds and dinosaurs and other exinct animals come back to life.
● Thiory Lumières Sauvages - from October 17, 2025 to March 8, 2026
Enjoy a jazz concert with a snack
Are you looking for an original idea? Check out one of the Jazz & Goûter concerts taking place at Sunset Sunside. An interactive themed concert is organized every Sunday for children aged 2-3 years old. The program is eclectic since all styles are on display. Cake, candies and drinks are available for purchase.
- Sunset Sunside Jazz Club - Jazz and Snacks, every Sunday from October 5 to December 21, 2025, 23 sessions of approximately 50 minutes each at 11 a.m., 3 p.m., and 5 p.m.
Tips and recommendations
Looking for new experiences to escape and make the eyes of young and old alike light up? Paris definitely knows how to warm hearts and spirits, even during the cold season. To make the most of these wonderful experiences, however, remember to plan your trip to Paris or your stay outside of peak times or to opt for off-peak hours. Also, be sure to book your tickets well in advance. This will allow you to better enjoy these very popular and busy sites. In addition, choose public transportation or sustainable modes of transportation to get there. This will give you peace of mind and help reduce your carbon footprint. Have a wonderful and magical time with your family!
By The editor
The editorial staff of France.fr follows the trends and news of destinations to bring you stories from France that reveal its innovations and traditions that make you long to (re) discover its territories.
