The Big New Year's Eve Party at the Arc de Triomphe
The first thing is probably the meticulously planned official celebrations. For several years now, the Arc de Triomphe has been the heart of Paris’ New Year’s celebrations. The city puts on an impressive combination of lights, lasers and video projections – and recently, a short, controlled fireworks display at midnight has returned as well. The Champs-Élysées become a lively, festive gathering place: international, energetic and full of anticipation. If you want to count down to midnight outdoors, this is the spot.
The Best Places to See the Light Show and Fireworks
To get a good view of the projections and the roughly eight-minute fireworks display, it’s worth arriving early and dressing up warmly. Popular viewing spots include:
• Champs-Élysées – iconic and right in the middle of it all.
• Place Charles de Gaulle – close to the Arc, with excellent visibility of the light show & fireworks.
• Avenue Kléber – a slightly calmer spot, but still with a great perspective.
• Pont de l’Alma – offers views over the night skyline.
• Esplanade du Trocadéro – a little bit further away, but especially atmospheric with the Eiffel Tower in your view.
• Avenue Foch – a relaxed insider spot with a clear sightline to the Arc de Triomphe.
How Paris Celebrates – French New Year's Eve Traditions
There are also a few French traditions that should play a part in your new years experience in Paris:
• Festive menus: Obviously the entire period is, but December 31 is really dedicated to good food. Oysters, seafood, foie gras and Champagne are classics, and many restaurants offer special New Year’s Eve menus.
• Kisses for good luck: Don’t be surprised if you get a little peck on the cheek or two as the clock strikes midnight.
• A little treat: A croissant, a coffee or a glass of Champagne on January 1 – it’s traditional to enjoy a small indulgence to set a positive tone for the year ahead, so go ahead treat yourself!
What Else You Can Do on New Year's Eve in Paris
Beyond the official celebrations on the Champs-Élysées, Paris of course has plenty of other ways to enjoy the night. For example:
• A Seine river cruise – dinner, music and taking in the city from a different perspective.
• New Year’s Eve at the Moulin Rouge or Lido – If you fancy something a little more glamourous, champagne and a show is a great option.
• Celebrating in one of the numerous Paris neighbourhoods – Marais, Bastille, Pigalle: all have their own bars and clubs with unique vibes that will party into the early hours.
• Concerts & culture – from classical performances to modern shows and everything in between, the city’s programme is usually full on NYE.
• Eiffel Tower magic – There are no official fireworks at Paris’ most well-known landmark, but it does supposedly sparkle extra bright at midnight.
If You Want a Classic Fireworks Display: Head to Disneyland® Paris
For families or folks that are still young at heart, Disneyland® Paris has the place to go. Each year, the park celebrates with parades, music, and a spectacular nighttime show. You’ll of course be greeted by Mickey, Minnie and a few other familiar faces too. They also offer an impressive fireworks display - above Sleeping Beauty’s Castle. Let’s hope she’s not trying to get an early night.
If you are thinking about spending New Year’s Eve in Paris, whether it be celebrating on the Champs-Élysées, cruising along the Seine or watching the fireworks at Disneyland® Paris, we can offer you a great stay at Pentahotel Paris CDG Airport to top it off. Close enough to provide easy access, but removed enough to be away from the chaos, you’ll also find the typical Penta warmth: stylish rooms, comfortable beds and a relaxed, sociable atmosphere in our Pentalounge.
