The holiday season transforms Paris and its surrounding region into a magical land that transports us straight into a Christmas story. With its festive decorations and enchanting entertainment, this season has something to delight young and old alike, and wonder can be found on almost every street corner. Between gifts, Christmas meals, and school vacations, it's also a time of year that can be synonymous with big spending. So, is it really possible to enjoy the Christmas holidays without breaking the bank? The answer is yes!
Because we know that the holiday season canput a strain on the budget, we've taken on the challenge of finding you ideas for 100% free Christmas outings, so you can enjoy time with your family or loved ones without spending a dime. With spectacular shows, ice rinks, and other festive activities, there's no need to miss out! It's even an opportunity to explore the treasures of the Paris region beyond the capital's borders and make some wonderful discoveries!
Stay tuned, this guide is updated as new finds and announcements come in: check back regularly to discover other ideas for free outings during the holiday season in Paris and Île-de-France. And because good deals aren't just for Christmas, discover our ideas for free and inexpensive outings throughout the year right here.
Christmas 2025: a free Santa Claus mini-horse village at the Paris-Vincennes racecourse
The Paris-Vincennes racecourse is transformed into a Christmas Village every Sunday in December 2025 for exceptional family days out with the horses, with lots of free entertainment for children! [Read more]
Christmas 2025: magical concerts, wishing tree, and Santa's studio at Beaugrenelle
Until January 4, 2026, Beaugrenelle will be one of Paris's most magical Christmas destinations, with enchanting family activities, a beautiful Christmas tree, and concerts. [Read more]
Beaugrenelle's 2025 Christmas tree, co-designed by a French Haute Joaillerie Maison -photos
When Paris lights up, the magic extends to the Beaugrenelle glass roof. This year, the 15th arrondissement's shopping destination shines with a new brilliance, featuring a suspended Christmas tree co-designed by French fine jewelry house Mauboussin. [Read more]
New Year's Eve 2026 on the Champs-Élysées: fireworks and video mapping at the Arc de Triomphe
For New Year's Eve 2026 in Paris, the Champs-Élysées will be celebrating as it does every December 31. What's on the program? A video mapping show and fireworks that will light up the Arc de Triomphe. [Read more]
Christmas 2025 at Printemps Haussmann: a free ice rink at the top of the department store - our photos
This year, you don't need a passport to experience the magic of Christmas in New York: Printemps Haussmann is bringing Paris to Rockefeller Center! From animated window displays to the 7th Heaven ice rink, the spirit of Manhattan takes over the rooftops from November 8, 2025, to January 4, 2026. A frosty, urban, and ultra-stylish stopover to celebrate Christmas 2025 in the heart of the department store. [Read more]
Great ideas for Christmas 2025 in Hauts-de-Seine: 100% free outings not to be missed in the 92 department.
What if the magic of Christmas didn't cost a thing? In Hauts-de-Seine, the 2025 holiday season promises to be magical and 100% free. Illuminations, entertainment, shows... follow the guide for a December full of surprises, without spending a penny. [Read more]
Christmas 2025: creative workshops, meet-and-greet, and letters to Santa Claus at La Vache Noire - Arcueil (94)
During the holiday season, the Vache Noire shopping center in Arcueil is offering a variety of activities for the whole family to enjoy until Christmas, including free creative workshops and a chance to meet Santa Claus! [Read more]
Christmas 2025: Free Light Trail & Video Mapping at the Heart of a French-style Garden
For Christmas 2025 in Seine-et-Marne, families in Meaux can look forward to a delightful free holiday stroll. From December 6, 2025, to January 4, 2026, a dazzling light trail filled with animations and video mappings transforms the historic Jardin Bossuet — a beautifully landscaped space designed by André Le Nôtre, the legendary gardener of the Palace of Versailles! [Read more]
Christmas 2025 in Nemours (77): roller skating rink, gourmet market, funfair rides, and chocolate giveaways
During December and the holiday break, Nemours hosts a wonderful lineup of Christmas festivities, featuring free activities that everyone in the family can enjoy! [Read more]
Christmas 2025: horse-drawn carriage rides, gospel singing, and a visit from Santa Claus at Westfield Carré Sénart (77)
At the Westfield Carré Sénart shopping center in Lieusaint, Seine-et-Marne, the holiday season is celebrated in style with free entertainment for children. [Read more]
Great Christmas 2025 deals in the Yvelines: 100% free outings in the 78
What great things await us this Christmas 2025 in the Yvelines? Here is a selection of free outings to enjoy during the holiday season in the 78 department. [Read more]
Free Christmas 2025 outings in Essonne: great ideas for this winter in the 91 department
Looking for free things to do in Essonne for the holiday season? Discover the best deals for Christmas 2025 in the Essonne department. [Read more]
Great ideas for Christmas 2025 in Val d'Oise: 100% free outings to enjoy in the 95 department
Looking for free outings for Christmas 2025 in Val d'Oise? Discover some great ideas for young and old alike in the 95 department for the holiday season! Enjoy yourself without breaking the bank! [Read more]
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