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Cate Blanchett will be the face of the 2026 Christmas lights on the Champs-Élysées in Paris

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The Editor

@GregWilliams/2A Organisation

It's official: the name of the godmother of the Champs-Élysées 2026 holiday lights has been revealed, and this year, the capital is putting its faith in an international actress. Mark your calendars for November 22nd, with the inauguration that same day of the Champs-Élysées Christmas market, which is making its grand return. 

We knew that the Christmas lights on the Champs-Élysées would be switched on for the first time on November 22, 2026. But one question remained unanswered: which renowned personality would be invited to the event? And we finally have the answer! Alongside Paris's mayor, Emmanuel Grégoire, the president of the Champs-Élysées committee, Marc-Antoine Jamet, and the mayor of the 8th arrondissement, Catherine Lécuyer, it's none other than international actress Cate Blanchett who will be present at this inauguration as the face of the 2026 edition.


Cate Blanchett as godmother of this 2026 edition

We know her from Blue Jasmine, Carol, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button and TAR. The films in which Cate Blanchett appears enjoy tremendous success. And this year, she's been chosen as the face of the lights. "I'm very happy and honored to be the godmother of the Christmas lights on the Champs-Élysées this year. Paris is a city that holds a special place in my heart, where art, cinema and culture occupy a unique position. It's a pleasure to take part in this moment of magic and togetherness ", she said. The

Parisian band Feu! Chatterton will provide the musical backdrop for the event.

Every day, the 52 kilometers of garland lights will turn on at 5 p.m. and turn off at 1 a.m. Between 5 p.m. and midnight, a sparkling dialogue between the world's most famous avenue and the Eiffel Tower will take place every five minutes. And the exciting news this year? A special program will make the avenue shine four times per hour.


The grand return of the Champs-Élysées Christmas market on the same day

In addition to the festive lights, November 22, 2026 will also mark the return of the Champs-Élysées Christmas market after nearly 10 years away. This market will showcase sustainability, craftsmanship and artisanal expertise to offer quality products across the 200 chalets lining the avenue. 

Lighting of the Champs-Élysées — Paris 8
Sunday, November 22, 2026