More than a month before Christmas. It's time to decorate everything, get into the holiday spirit, and most importantly, start buying gifts. To help you with your shopping, here are 10 Parisian Christmas markets to discover urgently.
As the Minikeums used to say so well, "It's Christmas"... well, almost. And to prepare things properly and find the best ideas for original gifts and (if possible) not too expensive, the most beautiful markets dedicated to the holidays are springing up everywhere in the streets of Paris. Here is our selection of 10 must-see and original stops.
The largest: La Défense Christmas market
It is simply the largest in Île-de-France. This XXL market, located on the esplanade of La Défense, brings together all the essentials: food, craftsmen, mulled wine, and pretty decorations at every corner. In short, if you only want to visit one, it's a safe bet and you'll find everything you need there.
Christmas Market at Paris La Défense Parvis de La Défense Puteaux From November 16 to December 27, 2023
The most Kawaii: Shizen
This is the Christmas market 100% dedicated to Japanese culture. Illustra.In this place, you can find a wide variety of things, such as decorations, manga, origami, food and drinks, as well as shows. All these elements are here to help you explore the richness of Japanese culture and craftsmanship. And here, you are guaranteed to find the most unique gifts.
Now, take a look at this lovely Instagram post!
Shizen La Cité Fertile 14, avenue Edouard-Vaillant – Pantin From December 9 to 10, 2023
The most Nordic: the Swedish Christmas market
How to travel to Scandinavia on a budget for the holidays?
No need to look far and increase your carbon footprint by taking a plane, head to the Swedish church in the 17th district. Culinary specialties and traditional craftsmanship will make you feel like you're instantly traveling to Lapland, the famous home of Santa Claus.
Swedish Christmas Market The Swedish Church 9, rue Médéric – 17th district From December 1st to 3rd, 2023
The most eco-friendly: the 100% second-hand Christmas market
Circular jewelry, vintage clothing for men and women, recycled decorations... It's the perfect place to give gifts without feeling guilty. The Mercato Bolivar shop awaits you in a crazy atmosphere with DJ sets to offer you a different perspective on Christmas.
Christmas Market second hand Mercato Bolivar 17, avenue Simon-Bolivar - 19th From December 1st to 3rd, 2023
The most traditional: Christmas in Alsace
It is from this region that reminds us of the holidays all year round that the first Christmas markets come from. Back to the origins, and to the classics thanks to the oldest Alsatian market outside its region. Let's not lie, we mainly go there to stuff ourselves while enjoying munster cheese, potato cakes, gingerbread, and all the other delicious local specialties.
Noël en Alsace Gare de l’Est Place du 11 novembre 1918 – 10e Du 1er au 17 décembre 2023
The most DIY: Doo moments
Head to La REcyclerie to discover the numerous workshops organized by Wecandoo. On the program, we learn to double the joy for our loved ones by making our own Christmas gifts. It will undoubtedly be more personal than a random t-shirt bought online, won't it?
Doo moments La REcyclerie 83, boulevard Ornano – 18th From December 9th to 10th, 2023
The most charming: the Christmas market of Notre-Dame
We are very objective in the choice of our qualifiers, since the Christmas market on the square of Notre-Dame has literally been voted the most charming market in the capital. This little corner of paradise highlights all French craftsmanship, and, as a little bonus, the square where it is located is home to the oldest tree in Paris!
Notre-Dame Christmas Market Square René Viviani 2, rue du Fouarre – 5th arrondissement From December 8th to 25th, 2023
The most festive: the African Christmas market
Happy birthday! The African Christmas market is back for its 10th edition, just as colorful, complete, and warm as ever. On over 700 m2, all the richness of this continent comes to life before our eyes. We discover African culinary specialties, literature, and all sorts of natural products, and we can even learn the basics of some African dialects!
African Christmas Market Maison des Associations de Solidarité 18, rue des Terres-au-Cure – 13e December 9, 2023
The most sporty: The Christmas village at City Hall
Until December 31, the forecourt of the City Hall is transformed to welcome a unique village in the colors of the Olympic and Paralympic Games. A magical, eco-responsible forest extends around a series of chalets highlighting local craftsmanship. All in front of the sublime facade of the building decorated with a creation that pays tribute to the famous rings.
Hotel de Ville Village Hotel de Ville Square - 4th arrondissement Until December 31, 2023
The chillest: the Indé Christmas market
On December 16, L'International awaits you for an unmissable appointment: its Christmas market, in collaboration with Section 26. Vinyl, CDs, fanzines, it's all about relaxation to have a great time with the DJ sets playing, enjoy the venue, admire the beautiful exhibitions and, for the most adventurous, get a tattoo!
