Paris Joins Strasbourg, Nice, Lyon, Marseille and More Top Destinations in France for Christmas and New Year 2026 Holiday Travel Celebrations: All You Need To Know

Published on December 9, 2025

You simply must experience the magic. France is ready for you this winter. It offers pure, vibrant celebration across ten stunning cities. The festive period starts with incredible Christmas markets. It culminates in dazzling New Year’s Eve parties. This unique blend of tradition and glamour strongly boosts tourism. Visitors seek out this unforgettable winter experience. Every city promises its own spectacular atmosphere. You will find joy and wonder at every turn.

City-by-City Festive Guide: Christmas 2025 & New Year 2026

This detailed guide ensures you do not miss any major event. Tourism authorities confirm all these traditional annual events.

Paris: The Grandeur of the City of Light

• Christmas 2025 Events (Major Dates Confirmed):
  • La Magie de Noël (The Magic of Christmas): This major market and carnival runs in the Jardin des Tuileries. It opens around mid-November 2025. It lasts until early January 2026. This market features a large Ferris wheel and an ice rink.
  • Notre-Dame Christmas Market: Held at Square René Viviani. Dates confirmed are November 29 to December 25, 2025.
  • La Défense Esplanade Market: This huge market runs from November 13 to December 28, 2025.
  • Dazzling Illuminations: The Champs-Élysées and Avenue Montaigne sparkle. These elegant lights shine from late November 2025.
  • Department Store Windows: Animated displays at Galeries Lafayette are a true Parisian tradition.
• New Year’s Eve 2026 Events (December 31, 2025):
  • Arc de Triomphe Celebration: A massive, free public party takes over the Champs-Élysées. A spectacular light and video projection show happens on the Arc. It finishes with a short, dazzling fireworks display at midnight.
  • Gala and Cruises: High-end Seine River Dinner Cruises and Cabaret shows like the Moulin Rouge offer luxurious Réveillon experiences.
  • Eiffel Tower Sparkle: The tower offers its famous extended light show around midnight.

Strasbourg: The Christmas Capital

• Christmas 2025 Events (Major Dates Confirmed):
  • Christkindelsmärik (Strasbourg Christmas Market): The oldest market in France. It runs from November 26 to December 24, 2025.
  • The Grand Sapin: The majestic Great Christmas Tree is lit in Place Kléber. It is the central symbol of the celebration.
  • Multiple Market Squares: Markets spread across Place Broglie and squares near the Cathedral.
• New Year’s Eve 2026 Events (December 31, 2025):
  • Private Réveillon Dinners: Strasbourg focuses on intimate, gastronomic dining events.
  • Low-Key Atmosphere: Public celebrations are generally more subdued compared to Paris. Clubs and bars host ticketed parties.

Lyon: Capital of Gastronomy and Lights

• Christmas 2025 Events (Traditional Dates):
  • Fête des Lumières (Festival of Lights): This major event typically runs from December 5-8, 2025. It transforms the city with artful light projections.
  • Christmas Markets: Markets open on Place Carnot and in the city center. They offer crafts and regional food.
• New Year’s Eve 2026 Events (December 31, 2025):
  • Gourmet Réveillon: Lyon’s renowned bouchons offer special, multi-course New Year’s Eve feasts.
  • Central Gathering: Crowds gather around Place Bellecour and in the Old Town for spontaneous celebration.

Marseille: Provençal Charm by the Sea

• Christmas 2025 Events (Traditional Dates):
  • Marché de Noël de Marseille: The main Christmas Market. It is usually held on the Vieux-Port (Old Port).
  • Foire aux Santons: A long-standing tradition. This fair sells Santons, hand-painted Provençal nativity figurines. It runs from late November through December.
• New Year’s Eve 2026 Events (December 31, 2025):
  • Vieux-Port Celebrations: The main public gathering happens at the Vieux-Port.
  • Potential Fireworks: The city often organizes formal fireworks displays over the harbor.
  • Waterfront Dining: Restaurants near the waterfront host lively Réveillon dinners.

Nice: Riviera Radiance

• Christmas 2025 Events (Traditional Dates):
  • Village de Noël on Place Masséna: This Christmas Village features the main market and an ice rink. It runs from early December 2025 to early January 2026.
  • Crèche Exhibitions: Local churches display traditional Provençal nativity scenes.
• New Year’s Eve 2026 Events (December 31, 2025):
  • Fireworks over the Baie des Anges: The traditional highlight. A stunning fireworks display occurs over the sea.
  • Open-Air Party: A large public celebration takes place in Place Masséna.
  • New Year’s Dip (January 1st): Hundreds join the tradition of the Le Bain du Nouvel An in the Mediterranean Sea.

Toulouse: The Pink City’s Warm Glow

• Christmas 2025 Events (Traditional Dates):
  • Marché de Noël de la Place du Capitole: A huge, popular market. It takes over the stunning Place du Capitole. It runs from late November to late December.
  • City Illuminations: The Garonne river banks shine brightly.
• New Year’s Eve 2026 Events (December 31, 2025):
  • Central Countdown: The main countdown happens at Place du Capitole. It features light shows and live music.
  • Gala Nights: Hotels host elaborate, themed dinner and dancing events.

Nantes: Medieval Charm Meets Modern Fun

• Christmas 2025 Events (Traditional Dates):
  • Marché de Noël de Nantes: The market is traditionally on Place Royale and Place du Commerce.
  • Les Machines de l’Île: The mechanical elephant and its world offer a unique holiday visit.
• New Year’s Eve 2026 Events (December 31, 2025):
  • Central Squares: Celebrations center on Place Graslin and Place Royale.
  • Réveillon Parties: Restaurants and clubs host special dinner and dance events.

Montpellier: The Southern Vibe

• Christmas 2025 Events (Traditional Dates):
  • Les Hivernales (Christmas Market): Located on the Place de la Comédie. It offers numerous craft and food stalls.
  • Écusson (Old Town) Lights: The historic center is beautifully illuminated.
• New Year’s Eve 2026 Events (December 31, 2025):
  • Place de la Comédie: This is the heart of the festive public countdown.
  • Vibrant Nightlife: Montpellier’s dynamic bars and clubs host many New Year’s parties.

Bordeaux: Wine and Grandeur

• Christmas 2025 Events (Traditional Dates):
  • Marché de Noël de Bordeaux: Found along the Allées de Tourny. It features an ice-skating rink.
  • Riverbank Glow: The Garonne riverfront and elegant architecture are lit up.
• New Year’s Eve 2026 Events (December 31, 2025):
  • Miroir d’Eau Gathering: Crowds gather near the famous Miroir d’Eau and Place de la Bourse.
  • Elegant Dining: Wineries and restaurants offer upscale Réveillon menus.

Lille: The Northern Hub

• Christmas 2025 Events (Traditional Dates):
  • Village de Noël (Christmas Village): The main market is on Place Rihour.
  • Grande Roue (Ferris Wheel): Located on the Grand’Place. It offers great city views.
• New Year’s Eve 2026 Events (December 31, 2025):
  • Grand’Place Countdown: The city’s main square is the focal point for public celebrations.
  • Nightlife: Clubs and venues across the city host ticketed New Year’s events.

A Call to Your Next French Adventure

We truly believe that this holiday season is the best time to visit France. These cities offer magic and unforgettable memories. The sights and sounds invite you to join the celebration. Festive lights and gourmet dinners await your arrival. Book your journey now. Secure your place in this spectacular winter wonderland. You deserve to welcome 2026 in style. The spirit of joie de vivre is calling to you.