Listeners, if you’re looking for the best ways to experience Paris right now and all weekend long, get ready for a city bursting with art, music, fashion, food, and some true festive spirit.

November in Paris means the start of the city’s legendary Christmas celebrations. The Champs-Elysées is aglow with holiday illuminations, a tradition that always wows visitors and locals alike with its shimmering light displays every evening throughout the season, as noted by Paris Secret. Over in La Défense, the giant Christmas market is back for its 30th edition, featuring over 300 wooden chalets, an ice rink, and daily visits from Santa Claus. Down by the Tuileries Garden, another beloved Christmas market kicks off this weekend, blending festive rides, gourmet stands, and local crafts, according to Sortiraparis.

If you want to dive into Parisian culture, head to the Palais de l’Élysée this Saturday and Sunday for the Great Exhibition of Made in France. This event lets you explore over 120 products that showcase French artisanship from across the country, a true celebration of national creativity.

For the art lovers among you, the Grand Palais is hosting Paris Photo until Sunday, the world’s premier international photography fair. The magic doesn’t stop there: numerous galleries across Paris are taking part, so you can stumble upon photography exhibitions throughout the city. Contemporary art fans should also check out La Poste du Louvre for its free street art festival, running from November 15 through the 23, filled with live performances and bold urban creations.

Into vintage style? The Carreau du Temple in the Marais hosts the highly anticipated Salon du Vintage, back this weekend with 120 exhibitors offering everything from retro fashion to luxury second-hand treasures. For something a little more daring, the Monnaie de Paris welcomes a major Escher retrospective starting November 15—a visual playground of mind-bending illusions and immersive art.

Paris is also perfect for families this weekend. Check out the winter light shows at the Domaine de Saint-Cloud and the Jardin des Plantes. Both spots feature dazzling illuminated trails that promise to enchant kids and adults alike. Meanwhile, theatre lovers can be dazzled by The Nutcracker ballet at Grand Rex this Friday and Saturday evening, and families can enjoy musicals like Pocahontas and Zélie la Pirate at venues around town, as highlighted by Sortiraparis.

Sports fans aren't left out either. The Paris Supercross at the Défense Arena brings motocross thrills, while runners can join the Course des Lumières, a nighttime race supporting cancer research, organized by Institut Curie.

With all of these events, Paris proves once again that it’s the city where something extraordinary is always waiting just around the corner. Thank you for tuning in and don’t forget to subscribe. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI