After a year's absence, the Paris Christmas market is making a comeback on the square in front of City Hall, in the heart of the capital. From December 5, 2025, to January 4, 2026, the City of Paris is setting up "the Enchanted Forest," a village that celebrates the expertise of Parisian artisans. This is great news for lovers of authentic Christmas markets, who will be able to return to this historic setting after the 2024 edition was relocated to Place de la Concorde due to construction work.
This year, the Christmas market is taking place in a particular context, with Shein setting up shop at BHV. "We want to encourage Parisians to buy what is made in Paris," explains Nicolas Bonnet-Oulaldj, deputy mayorfor commerce at Paris City Hall, to Le Parisien. Launched for the first time in December 2015, this market returns to the brand-new urban forest on the forecourt, decorated and illuminated for the occasion. Visitors can stroll among gourmet chalets and local artisans in a magical atmosphere filled with the scent of hot chocolate and fir trees.
The 2025 edition is committed to protecting the environment. The Christmas village is 100% reused and recycled. All the trees used are replanted or turned into mulch for the city's flower beds. The lighting, provided exclusively by LEDs, ensures minimal energy consumption. Despite the constraints of the urban forest, the space has been reorganized to maintain the same number of chalets: six 4-meter chalets and two 2-meter chalets dedicated to artisans with the "Made in Paris" label, as well as three chalets for light refreshments.
On the gourmet menu, you can enjoy crepes, waffles, and even tartiflette between strolls. The artisan chalets will offer gifts made in Paris, perfect for slipping under the tree. "It's possible to find handmade items that are affordable for everyone, around €10, allowing children to buy gifts for their parents, for example," says the deputy mayor for commerce. The wooden horse carousel is also making a comeback, much to the delight of the little ones.
If you'd rather treat yourself to a warm break with your family, head to Paris La Boutique, which immerses you in a white and gold plant world. On the program: workshops for writing letters to Santa Claus thanks to the La Poste Foundation, literary activities with storytelling and games offered by Auzou Publishing, and an exhibition of giant Lego sculptures. My Little Paris is also installing three large Christmas baubles with games such as spot the difference, find the five differences, and mini Cluedo.
Santa Claus is on duty from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Wednesdays, Saturdays, Sundays, and every day during the school holidays until December 24. The chalets are open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Paris now has close to 3,000 certified artisans, with 575 new certifications to be added to the 2,500 existing ones on December 8.
As for the illuminations, the City of Paris has increased its budget to €1.1 million. Part of this supports 81 retailers' associations, and €300,000 is dedicated to illuminating working-class neighborhoods. New this year: the reuse of old illuminations from the Champs-Élysées, donated by the committee following a change in their display. The entire installation is carried out by City employees: chalets, wooden furniture, and decorations designed by municipal carpenters and woodcutters.
In short, if you're looking for a great way to experience the magic of Christmas in Paris while supporting local artisans, head to the Enchanted Forest on the steps of City Hall. It's a wonderful outing to add to the Christmas markets in Paris and Île-de-France that are popping up everywhere during the holiday season.
Dates and Opening Time
From December 5, 2025 to January 4, 2026
Location
City Hall of the 4ᵉ arrondissement of Paris
2 Place Baudoyer
75004 Paris 4
Prices
Free
Recommended age
For all
Official website
www.paris.fr
