Parisian Christmas at Galeries Lafayette

An Unforgettable Experience

Christmas in Paris is always magical, and no place embodies the holiday spirit quite like Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann. This year, the iconic department store celebrates its 130th Christmas, transforming Boulevard Haussmann into a sparkling winter wonderland with unparalleled decorations and unique experiences. Step into this feast for the senses and embark on an unforgettable holiday journey!

Galeries Lafayette Christmas 2025

 

1

The Christmas Tree: A Spectacle of Light and Creativity

The Christmas tree at Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann is a cherished holiday tradition dating back to 1976. Every year, a magnificent tree is installed under the store’s iconic glass dome, captivating visitors with its grand scale and stunning decorations. Each tree is uniquely designed, often featuring creative themes and cutting-edge technology, such as programmable lights and interactive displays.  

2025 Christmas Tree Galeries Lafayette

As every year, when the festive season arrives, everyone is excited and eager to discover the design of the famous Galeries Lafayette Christmas tree. This year, it is brought to life by the illustrations of Jeanne Detallante, an artist and illustrator passionate about decorative arts, who has previously collaborated with major luxury houses such as Miu Miu, Ami Paris, and Prada.

The giant tree is wrapped in sumptuous colorful ribbons, making it the most beautiful gift at the heart of the department store. Every 30 minutes, enjoy a light show: the ribbons glow and bring to life the little elves who craft the presents before they reach your hands.

2025 Christmas Tree Galeries Lafayette

Visitors can also explore the tree from a fresh perspective via the Glasswalk, an aerial walkway that offers a unique vantage point for capturing dazzling holiday memories.

 

2

The Christmas window: Pieces of a Magical Workshop 

On Boulevard Haussmann, Jeanne Detallante reinvents the spirit of Christmas with window displays more spectacular than ever. Fairy-tale characters and whimsical creatures bustle about, preparing the store for the big day.

2025 Window decorations of Galeries Lafayette

Santa Claus, an aesthete at heart, refines every detail; the giant printer runs at full speed to produce gift wrap; and the elves organize the creation and distribution of the season’s most beautiful presents.  

Galeries Lafayette store window displays

To give children an unforgettable Christmas, Galeries Lafayette has teamed up with Lunii, bringing a poetic atmosphere into the store. By scanning the QR code displayed in the window, children can listen to an exclusive extract of the Galeries Lafayette Christmas story.  

 

3

The Most Enchanting Ice Rink in Paris 

For Christmas 2025, the Galeries Lafayette rooftop ice rink is back! Located on the store’s rooftop, it promises a magical experience. After your shopping session, head to the top floor to glide across 176 m² of ice, under Paris’s starry sky and the shimmering lights of the Eiffel Tower.

Whether you’re looking to capture a memorable photo or enjoy a romantic moment, this is THE Christmas 2025 experience you absolutely shouldn’t miss!

 

4

Galeries Lafayette Gourmet: A Paradise for Chocolate and Sweet Lovers

For food enthusiasts, Lafayette Gourmet is a must-visit destination this holiday season. The gourmet section offers a wide selection of premium chocolates and festive desserts, including exclusive creations from renowned brands like Jean-Paul Hévin and Pierre Hermé.

Lafayette Gourmet

Here, you can select from a wide array of premium creations crafted by some of the most iconic chocolate ateliers in France and Europe. From rich milk chocolate to filled pralines and fruity delights, a dazzling variety of handcrafted masterpieces awaits, each more exquisite than the last.

Lafayette Gourmet

A delightful array of pastries awaits to satisfy every sweet tooth’s imagination. If this is your first trip to France and you’re eager to embark on a journey into the world of French desserts,  Galeries Lafayette Gourmet is the perfect starting point. From classic French treats like Opera cakes, lemon tarts, and mousse cakes, to each patisserie proudly showcasing its unique creations, there’s something here to enchant every dessert lover.

Lafayette Gourmet

Don’t miss the chance to join the “Les Secrets du Pâtissier” workshop, hosted by Ferrandi Paris. From November 16 to December 21, participants can learn the art of crafting their very own bûche de Noël, adding a personal touch to their holiday celebrations.

 

 5

Advent Calendars: A Daily Dose of Joy

Advent calendars are the perfect prelude to Christmas, and this year’s selection is more diverse than ever. With beautifully designed packaging, these calendars offer surprises for every taste. An advent calendar is a special calendar used to count down the days to Christmas, starting from December 1st. Traditionally, each day, there is a small door or window to open, revealing a treat or surprise inside, such as chocolates, candies, or small gifts. Originally rooted in Christian traditions to mark the days leading up to Christmas, modern advent calendars have expanded to include a variety of themes, from beauty products and toys to gourmet foods, making them a fun and festive way to celebrate the holiday season.

Advent Calendars  Galeries Lafayette

Many brands have launched their own advent calendars, ranging from the widely popular Jo Malone perfume collection among Asian tourists to macaron and dessert brands, and even jam and preserve producers.

Advent Calendars:

Of course, the most sought-after here are the chocolate advent calendars, perfectly matching the festive spirit. Whether as a holiday treat for yourself or a delightful gift for someone special, they are sure to bring a sweet surprise.

 

6

Christmas decorations: Bringing the Magic of the Holidays Home

Christmas is fast approaching and you still haven’t bought your decorations? Looking for something special? Even Instagram-worthy? Take a stroll to the 6th floor of Galeries Lafayette, where you’ll find a wide selection of festive décor. 

Galeries Lafayette Decorations

Whether for your tree, indoor spaces, or outdoor areas, every piece embodies the elegance of the Parisian lifestyle.

Christmas home decor

One of our team’s favorites, for example, is the Sirius candle carousel. It spins gently thanks to the rising heat of a tealight candle, creating a magical snowflake effect.

 

7

What Christams gifts to buy at Galeries Lafayette?

Mini Piano

Christmas gifts for kids

Visit the 5th floor to discover the children’s and gifts section, where you’re sure to find something to delight the little ones: plush toys, figurines, cars, creative games… the options are endless!
Our favorite: the mini piano, a gender-neutral gift that encourages artistic talent from a young age: perfect for preparing a sweet end-of-year melody for grandparents.

 

Board Games

Best Christmas gift ideas for the whole family

The holiday season means family gatherings! This year, why not offer a simple yet fun board game suitable for all ages?

last-minute Christmas gifts

The famous Skyjo or the french limited editions Monopoly Musée d’Orsay and Monopoly Musée du Louvre make wonderful gift ideas. And lovely souvenirs from France! 

 

Wine Carafe

Christmas gifts for men wine carafe

Looking for an authentic gift for someone with sophisticated taste who appreciates unique and unusual objects? Treat them to the Alaskan Maker wine carafe, from a French brand known for unforgettable gifts.

Christmas gifts for him

Its 3-in-1 non-airtight stopper enhances the wine’s contact with oxygen, serving it at its very best. Even the most discerning wine lovers won’t find anything to complain about.

 

Cashmere

Cashmere beanie

When winter cold arrives, what could be better than gifting cashmere for warmth and comfort? A soft, trendy cashmere beanie, available in various colors, is the perfect way to stay warm without compromising on style. A comforting gift that's warm and stylish at the same time

 

Candles 

eco-friendly Christmas gifts

Strolling through the 6th-floor creative space, it’s impossible to miss these adorable colorful candles. Ideal for artistic souls who love unique and niche gifts. Sustainable utilization: once the candle is finished, give the container a second life as home décor or a small flower vase.

 

Polaroid 

Where to buy Instant camera

Instant cameras are making a big comeback: a charming way to capture a special moment. A Polaroid camera is a perfect gift for all ages. It can be brought out at every unforgettable event to preserve memories in an instant.

 

8

O'bon Paris' special offer and Tax refund

With the O’bon Paris’ coupon, you can get exclusive offers when you purchase a total over a certain amount. To get the offers, you need to present both your receipts and the O'bon Paris’ coupon to the Concierge on the 1st floor of the main building. You can combine receipts from Galeries Lafayette except for any purchases for services, restaurants, and cafes. Click here to get your special coupons.

free gifts and discounts Galeries Lafayette

When you spend over 100 euros, you can receive a tax refund at Concierge. If you spend over 650 euros and use an O’bon Paris coupon, you can receive a tax refund in the luxurious lounge of the Concierge, which provides immediate assistance.

Galeries Lafayette VIP lounge

In the lounge as you see in the photo above, you can rest with a free drink like coffee, champagne, juice, or water, and snacks like chocolate, madeleines, and more.

galeries lafayette tax refund

There is also a tax refund machine available in multiple languages that can be done by card or cash. The concierge and a tax refund machine are located on the 1st floor between Louis Vuitton and Dolce & Gabbana, and their multilingual staff is ready to assist you. Get more information about tax refunds from here.

 


 

Article & Photos: O'Bon Paris Team