Sources: Paris Convention and Visitors Office, Paris Mayor's Office
The below calendar applies to December 2011.
Festivals and Seasonal Events
- Holiday Lights and Window Decorations in Paris
Starting in late November, Paris is bathed in sparkling holiday lights and elaborate window displays.
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Ice-skating rinks: Every winter, ice-skating rinks are set up at several locations around the city. Admission is free (not including skate rental).
Where: Info on 2011-2012 ice skating rinks in Paris (coming soon) - Paris Christmas markets: Bring in the holiday cheer in Paris with special Christmas treats, vin chaud (hot wine), decorations, and gifts.
Get more info on Christmas markets in Paris here
- Hannukah candle lightings in Paris: Check this website for listings
- The Autumn Festival: Since 1972, the Paris Autumn Festival or "Festival de l'Automne" has brought in the post-summer season with a bang by highlighting some of the most compelling works in contemporary visual art, music, cinema, theater, and other forms. Through December 19th. Consult the official website for program details (in English)
Arts and Exhibits Highlights in December
- From Lutecia to Paris
An important exhibit curated on the site of the archaeological crypt at Notre Dame Cathedral reveals how Paris evolved from its Greco-Roman guise (it was formerly called "Lutecia") to become a medieval capital of a Christianized Europe. Those interested in Paris history should reserve time for an exhibit that promises to be illuminating.
When: Through February 26th, 2012.
Where: Notre Dame Cathedral, Archaeological Crypt
- The Modern Eye of Edvard Munch: 1900-1944
The Centre Georges Pompidou is hosting a retrospective on the singular and decidedly modern vision of Norwegian master Edvard Munch, best known for his tortured expressionist painting, "The Scream". But Munch's body of work goes far beyond the existential angst he is generally associated with. Paintings, drawings and photography reveal Munch's experimental and curious approach to his work.
When: Through January 9th, 2012.
Where: Centre Georges Pompidou
Visit the official website for more information
- Matisse, Cézanne, Picasso: The Stein Family
The Grand Palais in Paris is now hosting a major retrospective on the Stein family (whose most famous member is the writer and "salon" holder Gertrude Stein) and their ties to major 20th century artists including Matisse and Picasso. The traveling exhibition has already shown at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art and will move on from Paris to the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. This is an important show for anyone interested in learning more about artistic patronage in the early 20th century, the bubbling Paris artistic and literary community during the same period, and the inspiring collaborations between artists and writers.
Location: Grand Palais
When: Through January 16th,2012
Visit the official website
- Pompei: Un Art de Vivre
The lost Roman city of Pompei, buried under ash after one of history's most violent volcanic explosions, has always been a point of fascination for its remarkably, eerily conserved artifacts and remains. An exhibit at the Musee Maillol brings Pompei to Paris for visitors to explore.
Location: Musee Maillol
61 rue de Grenelle, 7th arrondissement
Metro: Rue du Bac
Tel: +33 (0)1 42 22 59 58
When: Through February 12th, 2012
Visit the official website
- Cezanne and Paris
The rugged yet delicate impressionist landscapes of Paul Cézanne, best known for his depictions of Aix and the South of France, have long captured imaginations. For lovers of Paris, a major show at the recently re-opened Musee du Luxembourg exploring the artist's love affair with the city of light promises to be an illuminating experience.
Location: Musee du Luxembourg
When: Through February 26th, 2012
Visit the official website
- Diane Arbus
One of the 20th century's most gifted lenses is the subject of a retrospective at the Jeu de Paume National Gallery through early next year.
Location: Jeu de Paume National Gallery
When: Through February 5th, 2012
Visit the official website
More on Visiting Paris in December: December Weather and Packing Guide
