Lumières en Seine 2025-2026 at the Domaine de Saint-Cloud: we tested the new light trail

The Domaine National de Saint-Cloud will host Lumières en Seine from November 14, 2025, to January 11, 2026. This 2-kilometer illuminated trail features light and music installations for a magical nighttime stroll in the Hauts-de-Seine department.

If you're looking for a fun Christmas outing in the Île-de-France region, come and discover Lumières en Seine, the illuminated event that transforms the Domaine National de Saint-Cloud into a winter wonderland. This 5th edition will take place in the Hauts-de-Seine (92) from Friday, November 14, 2025, to Sunday, January 11, 2026, with a nighttime tour enriched with spectacular new installations. We've tested it and we'll tell you all about it.

The two-kilometer light trail winds through the historic park, revealing luminous works and immersive installations as you stroll through the night. From the moment you enter through the Grille Clémenceau, the atmosphere immerses you in a world where light, sound, and scenography blend harmoniously. What we particularly liked this year was the care taken with the musical atmosphere. Each space has its own music, which really adds to the feeling of immersion in the experience.

Among the exciting new features this year are the bubble area, where visitors can dance in a crazy atmosphere, the amazing pond of luminous ducks, and the sparkling star that catches the eye. The Dance of the Ducks, a playful and poetic installation by Poulpo Studio, enlivens the Grand Jet pond with more than 200 luminous ducks floating on the surface, creating a colorful ballet that echoes the fishing games found at carnivals. Children love it, and we must admit that adults do too.

The Symphony of the Elements at the Fer-à-Cheval basin orchestrates a dialogue between flames and fountains, creating moving tableaux where fire dances with water. It is the kind of contemplative moment that catches the eye, especially with the music that accompanies the show.

It is impossible to miss the Grande Cascade, a recently restored jewel of French heritage adorned with spectacular lighting effects. The lighting enhances the monument's classical architecture and creates a beautiful atmosphere. We recommend taking the time to admire it from all angles.

On the castle terrace, the Fenêtre sur Paris offers what is known as the perfect photo spot. With the Eiffel Tower sparklingin the background, you'll get a shot that will make everyone jealous. The Montgolfière des Rêves and the Carrosse de Cendrillon add to this fairy-tale atmosphere that works so well.

Along the Canal des Goulottes, the Aurores Givrées reinterpret the northern lights in an icy style. This creation, inspired by Nordic landscapes, transports visitors to the Far North without the need to board a plane.

On the Parterre de la Lyre, discover Chime Lights®, an interactive installation by the Laps Group where your movements become light and sound. It's fun, poetic, and entertaining for young and old alike, who enjoy creating their own light show.

The Fête des Lutins with DJ Elf Ferik transforms part of the route into a real disco party. This festive atmosphere brings a friendly and relaxed feel that contrasts nicely with the more contemplative moments of the route. You'll find yourself dancing a few steps before continuing your walk, carried away by the lively music.

The Field of Luminescence, enhanced with a new program, and the Cosmic Forest with its laser beams create interesting colorful atmospheres. These spectacular sequences play with our senses and our perception of space.

The grand finale at the Palais des Eaux, at the foot of the Grande Cascade, brings the walk to a beautiful close. The fountains dance in an aquatic choreography while the lights come together in a poetic harmony created by Atlantid × Europe Événement. It is the perfect moment to conclude this enchanted stroll.

At the heart of the route, on the Place du Fer-à-Cheval, a food court offers gourmet chalets perfect for a comforting break. Hot drinks, sweet treats, and savory specialties allow you to warm up while enjoying the atmosphere, just as we like it in winter with hot chocolate stands popping up everywhere. The Grand Carrousel, a two-story carousel with sculpted horses and meticulous finishes, revives the magic of the funfairs of yesteryear and delights families.

Building on the success of the first four editions, which attracted more than 500,000 visitors, this fifth edition offers an enhanced experience. However, we found the route to be a little shorter than in previous years. Every evening from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. (last admission at 9 p.m.), the Domaine National de Saint-Cloud is transformed into an enchanting setting for a walk lasting around 1.5 hours.

This illuminated trail is ideal for those willing to leave Paris and walk to discover a major event in a heritage setting. It will appeal to children as well as couples looking for a magical stroll. Of course, you'll need to plan your trip and wear good walking shoes, ideally waterproof in case of rain, because although the route is safe, you may still get your feet wet. That said, everything you need is available on site to eat and enjoy a good time with family, friends, or your partner.

In short, if you're looking for a great idea for the holiday season that's a little off the beaten track in Paris, Lumières en Seine is well worth a visit, especially for its carefully curated musical atmosphere, which makes the experience even more immersive. Prices start at €20 for adults and €16 for children aged 3 to 11, with special offers for families. The route is accessible to all, although the elevation makes it difficult to visit in a wheelchair without assistance. To get there, take metro line 10 to the Boulogne Pont de Saint-Cloud stop, or tram T2 to the Parc de Saint-Cloud stop. Please note that the event is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays outside of school holidays, as well as on December 24 and 31.

In addition, as in previous editions, almost all the lighting system is made up of 100% reusable LEDs, enabling energy consumption to be kept under control. This responsible approach is perfectly in keeping with our desire to preserve this historic estate while offering an exceptional show.

This test was conducted as part of a professional invitation. If your experience differs from ours, please let us know.