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The end-of-year festivities in 2025 will be marked by a host of cultural events: exhibitions, shows, circuses, etc. Not forgetting the Christmas animations in certain châteaux, the illuminations and the Christmas vitrines. Below is a selection of events to enjoy in Paris at the end of 2025.
Winter is the ideal time to warm up in museums and galleries. The capital has an exceptional line-up of events over the festive season, ranging from the masters of chiaroscuro to the most daring contemporary artists. Here is a selection of top exhibitions to see during the festive season, before it’s too late!
Plunge into the Parisian period of American painter John Singer Sargent, in partnership with the Met in New York. Through 90 works, the exhibition traces his meteoric rise and lasting success, providing a new insight into this major portrait painter.
The Institut du Monde Arabe (IMA) offers a new perspective on Cleopatra, a stateswoman and mythical figure, exploring how she became a universal icon. A groundbreaking exhibition that deconstructs the legend to gain a deeper understanding of this powerful queen and her timeless fascination.
An exhibition devoted to the master of black! The Musée du Luxembourg invites the public to a unique focus on the work of Pierre Soulages. Discover a selection of some never before shown works on paper, in which light is revealed through the textures and reflections of black.
The Musée Jacquemart-André presents a captivating retrospective of this genius of chiaoscuro. The exhibition features intimate and poetic scenes by Georges de La Tour, in which candlelight adds to the dramatic intensity and mystery.
Step into the synesthesia world of Kandinsky! The Philharmonie de Paris offers an immersive trail where colours and sounds interact. A unique sensory experience exploring the painter's deep relationship with music.
The Fondation Louis Vuitton is presenting a landmark monographic exhibition of the German artist Gerhard Richter. Explore the development of this major oeuvre, from his early photo-based paintings to his major abstract works, characterized by both pictorial breaks and continuities.
Street art occupies an unusual place: the former Saint-Ouen ice rink: the ice rink at Saint-Ouen. More than 70 French and international artists present a major immersive trail. A not-to-miss contemporary urban art event!
Celebrate the centenary of Art Deco at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs (MAD) ! This anniversary exhibition celebrates masterpieces of the movement, from its origins to its contemporary influences. An immersion into the elegance and modernity of the roaring twenties.
Rediscover the absurd humour and philosophical spirit of the famous cat of Philippe Geluck at the Musée Maillol. An offbeat and delightful exhibition that plunges you into the unexpected world of the cartoonist.
Travel back 66 million years in time for a spectacular adventure! Dive into the era of dinosaurs with this 360° immersive experience, adapted from the Apple TV documentary series Prehistoric Planet. A visual and sound adventure, narrated by Gérard Lanvin, that will thrill explorers of all ages.
These top temporary exhibitions close in Paris just after the New Year. Save the dates so as not to miss the last opportunities to see them:
The Christmas holidays are the ideal time to makespecial memories with the kids. Apart from museums and workshops, Paris has a great variety of activities and events for families: temporary ice rinks, enchanting illuminations, family shows and magical encounters.
See our selection to plan your days out and find activities for kids and grown-ups during the festive period.
Several museums are particularly suitable for people of all ages – they have managed to combine culture and fun. Examples include the Musée en Herbe, the Musée de l’Illusion, the Atelier des Lumières, the Musée Grévin, the Musée des Arts et Métiers, the Cité des Sciences, and the Paris Natural History Museum. A good idea for a cultural excursion to enjoy during the 2025 Christmas holidays: never will your children have enjoyed going to a museum so much!
So to get families interested, the capital’s major museums are putting together visits that are particularly fun and original. And don’t forget that the Louvre, the Musée d’Orsay, the Carnavalet Museum, the Museum of Modern Art and the Quai Branly Museum are also all open during the holidays.
For the Christmas holidays, La Féérie des eaux will be returning to the legendary Grand Rex. The fairy show - giant waterfall, illuminations, music... - a 15-minute extravaganza that this year precedes the film Zootopia 2. A screening like no other!
During the 2025/2026 festive season, the Paradox Museum invites children to a celebration of imagination and creativity. The XMAS MINDLIGHT experience includes The Gift of Light, a new treasure hunt combining exploration, reflection and surprises through the museum's optical illusions and visual challenges. An interactive cultural activity for young and old alike, turning the Paradox Museum into a playground for curious minds.
Themagic of Christmas in Paris is not only to be found in store window displays, but also on stage! Wonderful musicals, immersive shows, cult comedy andcontemporary ballets: Parisian cultural venues are all decked out in lights for a spellbinding season. Book quickly to enjoy these unforgettable moments, as some events are due to finish soon!
It is quite a different Force that is awakened! Far from the classic symphony, discover The Empire Strips Back , a lively, wacky show that revisits George Lucas’ famous saga in a burlesque cabaret. Stormtroopers, Dark Vador and other iconic figures swap their laser swords for striptease acts and highly creative performances full of humour. Get ready for an irreverent evening full of audacity at the Théâtre du Gymnase.
The show based on Mathieu Kassovitz's iconic film is back for the festive season! This powerful, visual and musical show can be seen at La Seine Musicale from 18 December 2025 to 4 January 2026. Relive the story of Vinz, Saïd and Hubert, more relevant than ever, in a modern production. A major cultural event not to be missed.
See Albin and Georges in one of the most extravagant cabarets! This great musical classic is back with its exuberance, tenderness and famous acts. A flamboyant heartwarming ode to tolerance, love and glamour.
The choreographer Sidi Larbi Cherkaoui explores the myths of communication and incomprehension in this physical and powerful dance performance. An acclaimed work that explores the diversity of languages and cultures. A hypnotic ballet not to miss.
Forget classic instruments! The cult show STOMP returns to Paris for a series of show dates. At La Cigale, the troupe transforms everyday objects—brooms, rubbish bins, lighters—into an electrifying and humorous sound choreography. A wordless, universal, and high-octane show.
The most magical show in Paris continues to delight audiences at the Théâtre Mogador. The legendary story of Simba, sumptuous costumes and catchy music make this musical a hit with all the family. A complete change of scene without leaving Paris.
Welcome to the Chicago of the roaring twenties, where ambition and crime make the law! With its fast-paced jazzy choreography, sexy costumes and cult acts, this show is a must for fans of Broadway style. Razzle Dazzle guaranteed.
Rediscover the cult classic by Jacques Demy in musical version. Let yourself be carried away by the energy and optimism of the story of the twin sisters Delphine and Solange, to the timeless melodies by Michel Legrand. A bowl of sunshine and good humour for the festive season.
Olivier Giraud is back with his hilarious one-man show that unlocks the codes, manias and clichés of the Parisian. A truly entertaining guide for anyone who wants to survive (and shine) in the French capital. Laughter guaranteed for Parisians and tourists!
A monumental and immersive experience within the Dôme des Invalides. Enjoy this stunning sound and light show that highlights the sumptuous architecture of the building, creating a breathtaking visual symphony. Magical moments of contemplation, for a timeless experience.
An illuminated big top, thrilling acts and magical family moments: the circus show is a favourite tradition at Christmas time. Here are three shows not to miss this winter:
Our calendar of events is the perfect way to make sure you don't miss out on any of the magic of the festive season! Whether you're looking for a classical Christmas concert, a musical for the whole family, or a circus show, our list brings together a selection of cultural events.
Plan your favourite seasonal outings and book ahead.
Paris is a dazzling sight during the Christmas season: department store window displays, illuminations, Christmas markets … The Christmas holiday season is also the opportunity to go on original and themed visits that transform the capital into a magical playground. For activities that take you to great heights, the kitchen stove, … here are our ideas to inspire you.
Forget the car and climb aboard a means of transportation that will make exploring the city truly memorable. Take a chauffeur driven romantic night tour in a 2CV or experience the adventure of a ride with a motorbike and sidecar driver-guide with Side-car Rétro Tour.
To explore in an ecological and fun way, opt for a guided electric bike tour (including the Highlights Bike Tour or Le Paris Secret) or fun circuits by electric Solex.
And for an effortless guided outing vélo cab Turtle offers themed itineraries around the Eiffel Tower, Saint-Germain-des-Prés, and Sacré-Cœur.
Set out to explore the capital with an out-of-the-ordinary themed tour. With family or friends, carry out an investigation in Montmartre, explore the mysteries of Paris City of Crime or follow the Must-See Guide with an expert guide.
Fly sky high with the Ballon de Paris Generali or the Ballon de Disney Village for breathtaking views of Paris or the Disneyland® Paris theme park.
Fans can treat themselves to a guided tour of Galeries Lafayette Haussmann or explore behind the scenes at the Stade de France or Roland Garros.
The festive season is one of gourmet pleasures and discoveries. The ideal gift? A unique workshop! Plunge into the world of French artisans: create your own wine at the Caves du Louvre, take part in a tasting session at Paroles de Fromagers or learn about perfume making at the Atelier Fragonard. These experiences, in particular the artisan workshops WeCandoo (carpentry, pottery, leather goods, etc.) are an ideal creative gift in the form of a gift voucher or to treat yourself.
For dining out, treat yourself to a memorable meal at Madame Brasserie at the Eiffel Tower, Dine in Paris by Night aboard a Bus Toqué, or enjoy a dinner-opera Bel Canto. Don’t forget to check out the gourmet outings in Montmartre or the Marais, and for a sweet snack, brunch or afternoon tea at Ladurée !
