What to do in November 2024
November Calendar & Good Deals
What to do in France November 2024
What to do in France November 2024
As November settles in, Paris begins to transition into a quieter, yet culturally rich period. With fewer tourists and a cozy atmosphere, it’s the perfect time to explore the city. We’ve gathered some specific and budget-friendly ideas to help you make the most of the month—whether you’re looking for cultural events, outdoor activities, or just something delicious to warm up with. Plus, we’ve got job opportunities at the end for those looking to expand their roles!
Cultural & Seasonal Events You Can’t Miss
Salon des Vins des Vignerons Indépendants
- When: 28th November – 1st December
- Where: Porte de Versailles
This annual wine fair is a staple of the Parisian autumn and the 46th celebration. For a small entry fee (in advance), you can taste wines from independent producers across France, purchase bottles at discounted prices, and learn about the regions each wine comes from. It’s a great way to discover new favorites and stock up for the holiday season. - Not based in Paris? No worries – Lille will be hosting from the 15th – 18th of November; Reims from the 8th – 11th November, and Lyon from the 31st October – 4th November.
For more information head over to their site!
Festival Château de Lumières à Vincennes
- When: Ending the 2nd November
- Where: Château de Vincennes
- For art enthusiasts, this enchanting festival features stunning light displays and immersive installations set against the backdrop of the historic Château de Vincennes. Experience the magic of art illuminated at night making it a wonderful opportunity to enjoy captivating visuals in one of Paris’s most iconic landmarks. Tickets range from 14-18 € for adults with free entrance for under 6 year olds.
Paris Photo
- When: November 7-10
- Where: Grand Palais
This international photography fair is the largest of its kind and features works from galleries all over the world. Tickets can be purchased online starting at €32, but if you’re a photography enthusiast, it’s worth it to see the incredible range of images—from vintage prints to modern pieces.
Beaujolais Nouveau Day
- When: November 21
A beloved French tradition, Beaujolais Nouveau Day marks the release of the new Beaujolais wine. Although it’s a tradition rooted in the Beaujolais region, you’ll find celebrations across Paris. Head to any local wine bar to enjoy a glass or two of this year’s batch. Prices are generally reasonable, with glasses ranging from €4 to €7. - If you are a wine enthusiast and want to find out more about Beaujolais Nouveau festivals and events happening outside of the Paris region click here.
Outdoor Activities: Enjoying Paris in The Chillier Weather
Parc des Buttes-Chaumont
If you want to escape the busy city streets, the Parc des Buttes-Chaumont in the 19th arrondissement offers a scenic retreat. Known for its rolling hills, waterfalls, and panoramic views of the city, this park is ideal for a peaceful walk or a picnic (even in cooler weather). Entry is free, and it’s a quieter alternative to the busier parks in central Paris.
Coulée Verte René-Dumont
For a unique elevated walk through Paris, head to the Coulée Verte, which begins near Bastille. This old railway-turned-green space offers a tranquil escape above the city streets. Whether you’re going for a run or a leisurely stroll, this 5-kilometer trail is a great way to enjoy the autumn foliage.
Jardin des Tuileries
Located between the Louvre Museum and Place de la Concorde, the Jardin des Tuileries is one of Paris’s most iconic gardens. This beautifully manicured park is adorned with vibrant flower beds, elegant fountains, and classic sculptures, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a peaceful afternoon. As you wander through the tree-lined paths, you can take in stunning views of the surrounding architecture and enjoy the lively atmosphere of visitors and locals alike. The garden also features several charming cafes where you can sip coffee and indulge in a pastry while soaking in the beauty of this historic site, a true testament to the art of French landscaping.
Parc Monceau
Parc Monceau, located in the 8th arrondissement, is a charming oasis that beautifully combines classical French landscaping with a relaxed, inviting atmosphere. Renowned for its elegant pathways, manicured lawns, and stunning flowerbeds, this park features picturesque bridges, a pond, and even a small temple inspired by ancient Greece. Visitors can often be seen lounging on the grass, enjoying a picnic, or taking leisurely strolls among the lush greenery. With its unique mix of art and nature, Parc Monceau is also home to several sculptures and monuments, making it an ideal spot for both relaxation and cultural exploration.
Parc de la Villette
Spanning over 55 hectares in the 19th arrondissement, Parc de la Villette is a vibrant cultural hub that seamlessly blends green spaces with modern architecture. This innovative park features a variety of themed gardens, playgrounds, and open-air spaces, making it a popular destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts. One of the park’s standout features is the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie, Europe’s largest science museum, which offers interactive exhibits for all ages. Additionally, Parc de la Villette hosts numerous events and festivals throughout the year, including outdoor movie screenings and concerts, ensuring there’s always something exciting happening in this dynamic urban space.
Best Parks and gardens in Paris
Read more here for our selection of best parks and gardens in Paris.
Food & Drink: Seasonal Eats For November
L’As du Fallafel
- Where: 34 Rue des Rosiers, Le Marais
A well-known budget-friendly option, L’As du Fallafel is famous for its massive, delicious falafel sandwiches. For around €8, you can enjoy a hearty meal as you explore the historic Le Marais neighborhood. It’s perfect for a quick bite after a day of sightseeing.
Bouillon Chartier
- Where: 7 Rue du Faubourg Montmartre, 9th arrondissement
For a traditional French meal at an affordable price, head to Bouillon Chartier. This iconic Parisian restaurant serves classic French dishes like boeuf bourguignon and escargots, with most meals costing between €10-15. It’s one of the few places in Paris where you can enjoy authentic French cuisine without overspending.
Thanksgiving in Paris: Celebrating The American Way
For our American expats and anyone else celebrating Thanksgiving this month, here are some ideas to enjoy the holiday spirit in Paris:
Thanksgiving Dinner at American Restaurants
Several restaurants in Paris offer special Thanksgiving menus. Places like Breakfast in America and Le Relais de l’Entrecôte provide traditional dishes, from turkey with stuffing to pumpkin pie. Reservations are highly recommended, as these spots can fill up quickly!
Host a Friendsgiving
If you prefer a more personal celebration, consider hosting a Friendsgiving. Gather your fellow instructors and make it a potluck dinner. Share favorite recipes—whether it’s mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, or a pie. Many expats find local markets, such as Marché Bastille, a great place to source ingredients.
Preparing For Christmas
The Parisian Christmas window unveiling ceremony is a beloved tradition that takes place in mid-November, marking the official start of the holiday season. Major department stores across the city, including Galeries Lafayette, Printemps, Le Bon Marché, and BHV Marais, unveil their spectacular holiday window displays, each featuring a unique theme that captures the festive spirit.
- Galeries Lafayette: The unveiling at Galeries Lafayette is scheduled for November 16, 2024. This year’s theme focuses on a whimsical tale, showcasing animated characters and dazzling lights that mesmerize onlookers.
- Printemps: Known for its artistic and elaborate displays, Printemps will unveil its Christmas windows on November 14, 2024. The store’s windows often feature intricate designs that blend traditional holiday elements with modern artistic flair.
- Le Bon Marché: This iconic department store, which is renowned for its luxury offerings, will also reveal its Christmas windows in mid-November. Each year, Le Bon Marché presents a thoughtful and artistic interpretation of the holiday season.
- BHV Marais: Situated in the heart of the Marais district, BHV Marais participates in the festive tradition with its own eye-catching window displays. Their unveiling typically coincides with the other major stores, providing a diverse experience for visitors.
These stunning displays will remain up throughout the holiday season, drawing crowds who come to admire the creativity and craftsmanship that transform the store façades into a winter wonderland. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit these iconic locations and immerse yourself in the magic of Christmas in Paris!
Babylangues Job Opportunities
For those of you who have been working with us or know someone who might be interested, we have plenty of vacancies for you to fill – you can apply now here. Whether you’re looking to increase your hours or explore a different role within Babylangues, we encourage you to check out our job board…
Even if you’re happy with your current teaching schedule, don’t hesitate to pass the word along to fellow anglophones looking for part-time work opportunities in Paris or other cities in France.
Enjoy the city this November, and make sure to take advantage of all the exciting (and affordable) events happening throughout Paris. Keep warm, and keep exploring!
