What did Christmas look like in Paris a hundred years ago? Although we can easily imagine there were no iPhone or MacBook underneath the Christmas tree, there are still a few similarities with our current December traditions. Proof of it with these pictures of Christmas lights in Paris in 1925 by Léon Gimpel. Enjoy!
Monumental decorations designed by note French engineer-electrician Fernand Jacopozzi, impressive giant lit sculptures, automated characters walking on the most prestigious façades of Paris stores… Christmas lights were definitely worth it in the Roaring Twenties.
From the Samaritaine to the Bazar de l’Hôtel de Ville (BHV) to the Louvre department store, the Galeries Lafayette or even the Belle Jardinière. Whether they are still standing or not, the Parisian departments stores have never spent no expense to impress children and older children with enchanting Christmas decors.
Although we still love the ones currently displayed, we must admit the Christmas lights 1925-1930 version were quite a show. Light fountains, gigantic scenes, colorful characters. Yesteryear Parisians and tourists were likely to be left in awe!
And yet, the Christmas 2022 lights have nothing to envy. To blow you away, head to each area in Paris to (re)discover the Christmas lights. Unmissable and always wonderful, no matter the era!
Christmas illuminations at Paris 2023, the program
The Christmas illuminations in Paris are a magical part of the festive season. From the Champs-Élysées to Bercy Village, via the chic Faubourg Saint-Honoré, Paris is decked out in a thousand lights every year. It's a glittering journey that's sure to blow your mind! [Read more]
Christmas illuminations at Paris 2023, the program
