November has arrived, and here in Paris that means it’s the season of cozy scarves, steaming mugs of vin chaud, and festive lights. As the days grow shorter and a little wetter, the city seems made for long museum strolls, hot chocolate breaks, and the kind of exhibitions that keep you snug indoors. But while Paris hunkers down for the season, th ere’s still plenty going on, both for those who want to brave the chill and for anyone in search of a cozy corner.
Here’s our guide to five fantastic things happening in Paris this November, plus a bonus: four spots to indulge in a classic Thanksgiving feast, for those Americans that might be a little more homesick than usual this time of year.
1. PARIS PHOTO EXHIBITION & PARIS PHOTO DAYS
November 7th - 10th, 2024
Art lovers, this one’s for you! The annual Paris Photo Exhibition brings together over 200 experts specializing in International Fine Art Photography. Located in the Grand Palais, one of our favorite buildings, near the Pont Alexandre III, this exhibition has been around since 1997. Strolling through the vaulted galleries, you’ll find everything from classic black-and-white shots to the latest in digital creativity. Perfect for escaping the November chill while getting your cultural fix.
Love photography, but not around during the dates of the exhibition? Be sure to grab a cup of specialty coffee at Fringe, a go-to place for quality coffee, with featured photography on the walls.
If you’re a phan of photography, you’ll also want to catch Photo Days (2nd-30th November, various venues in and around Paris), a prominent photography festival that runs citywide, and has been around for five years. At places like the Carrousel du Louvre and Cinéma L'Arlequin, artists across Europe showcase their perspective through photography.
2. FANCY SOMETHING MUSICAL?
Perhaps you’d like to escape the cold with another indoor experience - live music. Thankfully, Paris is not lacking in performances, but here are a few that stood out to us this month:
SUM41
...at the Paris La Défense Arena, 23 November. Talk about a throwback!
LES MISERABLES
...at the Théâtre du Châtelet, from the 20th of November. Les Mis runs into January, so if you’re traveling in the upcoming months, you can still nab a ticket.
REGULARLY SCHEDULED JAZZ.
...We also want to remind you that you can catch weekly jazz at some of our favorite bars in the city. Check out Le 18 Oberkampf for jazz on Wednesday evenings, and Abricot Bar for jazz on Sundays.
3. THE PARIS SUPERCROSS
November 16th & 17th, 2024
While not quintessentially Parisian, if you’re into motorcycles, you won’t want to miss The Paris Supercross. This year, the Supercross de Paris returns to Paris La Défense Arena for its 41st edition. Supercross is an intense, indoor version of motocross, where top riders compete on a compact, obstacle-filled track designed for high-speed jumps, sharp turns, and technical skill.
This year's lineup looks set to deliver a weekend of close-quarters racing and emerging talent. With showcases from top brands displaying the latest moto technology, it’s a must-attend event for motorsport fans and motocross enthusiasts alike.
4. SOMETHING IMMERSIVE?
LE ROMAN DE SAINT-SULPICE
Until November 23rd, 2024
A light show in one of the most beautiful churches in the city? Yes, please! Paris Cœur de Lumières has created a spectacle that transforms the historic Église Saint-Sulpice into a breathtaking sound and light spectacle. Created by director Damien Fontaine, this immersive event combines monumental 360° projections, music, and live performances from over 150 actors. Audiences are invited on a 90-minute journey through history, exploring the lives and rivalries of 17th-century Parisian families in the Saint-Germain district, as well as the church’s turbulent past leading up to the French Revolution. Enjoy this unique way to experience one of our personal favorite Parisian landmarks.
BEAUTY AND THE BEAST
Until November 17th, 2024
Tucked away in Paris’s 5th arrondissement, the Grand Hôtel des Rêves offers an especially unique escape into the world of dreams with an immersive version of Beauty and the Beast that has been touring all over France. Over the course of 50 minutes, guests move through elaborate scenes with cinematic sets, costumes, and a cast of 20 actors… that’s right - fully immersed in the story. Magic, romance, grand halls, and castle’s corners? What says cozy winter vibes more than this!
5. BEAUJOLAIS NOUVEAU CELEBRATIONS
November 21st, 2024
It’s tradition: the third Thursday of every November marks the release of Beaujolais Nouveau, the first wine of the year. To celebrate, locals and visitors alike flock to wine bars across the city, with events of all kinds. One to check out would be the Food Market of Belleville featuring DJs, gourmet food stalls, and (of course) plenty of wine. It’s a lively, festive way to experience a real slice of French culture and get in the spirit of the season.
Looking for more to do, but not sure what? Or perhaps you're travelling at another time of year? Be sure to check out our guide to Paris - we're here to help you have the best possible time here!
And as a bonus list this month, we’re including where expat and American immigrants can find a Thanksgiving feast in the city of light. This is a time of year when many of us are missing our families, scrumptious turkey, and pumpkin pie - so here are four places where you can get your fix.
WHERE FIND A THANKSGIVING FEAST IN PARIS
Milagro
November 28th, 29th and 30th, 2024
One of our popular recommendations in our guide, Milagro will offer three Thanksgiving Dinner Services this year, with two seatings each night. With classics like brussel sprouts, roast turkey and pumpkin pie, you won’t want to miss out - be sure to reserve soon!
Breakfast in America
29 November, 2024
A go-to for Americans craving a diner experience, Breakfast in America offers two Thanksgiving dinner seatings. Expect turkey, stuffing, and pie – a comforting taste of home in the heart of the 5th arrondissement
Ô Chateau
28 November, 2024
Thanksgiving dinner here is a special affair, with a three-course menu featuring turkey, mac and cheese, and pecan pie. Pair it with a wine flight to make it an indulgent holiday meal, and reserve soon!
Treize au Jardin
November 24th-30th, 2024
If you’re in Paris’s Saint-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood this Thanksgiving, consider a visit to Treize au Jardin for a comforting holiday meal with a classic touch. Now open for a decade, this spot offers simple, soul-satisfying dishes and a laid-back vibe. For Thanksgiving 2024, they’re serving a special menu from featuring turkey roulade, cornbread stuffing, mac & cheese, and some classic pies! Be sure to check out the link above for details and reservation.
