What to Do in Paris on this Weekend December 31 and January 1st, 2nd, 3rd 4th 2026? This weekend will be festive with the transition to the new year: major exhibitions continuing, ephemeral ice rinks, markets, and shows for the whole family. Here are 12 verified ideas to enjoy your weekend from Friday, January 2 to Sunday, January 4, 2026.
Read our selection of best things to do in Paris for New Year’s Eve
Exhibitions Not to Miss in Paris this weekend
- My Name Is Orson Welles — La Cinémathèque française. A rich and well-documented retrospective devoted to the director: archives, storyboards, and filming objects. Dates: October 8, 2025 → January 11, 2026.
- Ce qui se trame. Histoires tissées entre l’Inde et la France — Mobilier national (Galerie des Gobelins). A large festival exhibition focused on textiles, curated by Christian Louboutin: craftsmanship, historical pieces, and contemporary creations. Dates: December 4, 2025 → January 4, 2026.
- Minimal — Bourse de Commerce – Pinault Collection. A selection of works and artists centered around minimal art, a great opportunity to (re)discover the collection from this perspective. Dates: October 8, 2025 → January 19, 2026.
- Rick Owens, Temple of Love — Palais Galliera (Musée de la Mode). A monographic retrospective of designer Rick Owens, with a display extending outside the museum. Dates: June 28, 2025 → January 4, 2026.
Ice Rinks, Year-End Celebrations, and Outdoor Installations
- Grand Palais des Glaces. The gigantic ice rink under the dome of the Grand Palais, with activities and night sessions: extended winter opening. Dates: December 14, 2025 → January 8, 2026. Ideal for a family or friends’ evening.
- Rooftop Ice Rink — Galeries Lafayette Haussmann. The outdoor rink on the roof with a view over Paris: accessible during the day and often very photogenic. Dates: December 1, 2025 → January 4, 2026.
- La Forêt enchantée — Parvis de l’Hôtel de Ville. Illuminations, gourmet chalets, and family activities in a festive winter atmosphere — free and friendly. Dates: December 5, 2025 → January 4, 2026.
Markets, Fairs, and Creative Events
- Festival du Merveilleux — Musée des Arts Forains (Pavillons de Bercy). The museum transforms into a festival with rides, short shows, and costume presentations; perfect for curious children and adults. Dates: December 26, 2025 → January 4, 2026.
- Métamorphose (Contemporary Art Fair) — Halle des Blancs-Manteaux. An art fair featuring around sixty independent artists; a great plan for finding a late gift or discovering young creators. Dates: December 26, 2025 → January 4, 2026.
Shows and Family Outings
- Casse‑Noisette, the Musical — Théâtre La Boussole. A musical story for a young audience, short and friendly adaptation to introduce children to the magic of ballet. Dates: November 8, 2025 → January 4, 2026.
- Pocahontas, the Musical — Théâtre Gaîté Rive Gauche. An immersive family show with decor and effects, scheduled during the season: a good option for a family afternoon. Dates: October 4, 2025 → May 3, 2026.
Concerts and Classical Music
- Beethoven: Symphony No. 9 — Maison de la Radio et de la Musique (Orchestre philharmonique de Radio France). A New Year’s tradition: the Ninth is scheduled for Saturday, January 3 (8 PM) and Sunday, January 4 (4 PM). Dates/performances: January 3–4, 2026 (concerts).
Practical Tips for a Successful Weekend
Reservations and Timings: Early January is a time when several exhibitions and activities end their season — book tickets online (museums, ice rinks, concerts) as the last days of an exhibition or a festival attract crowds. Museums may require timed slots (e.g., Cinémathèque).
Transport: Favor the metro and RER (some lines may have reduced schedules on New Year’s night, but the network operates normally at the beginning of January). For ice rinks and the Hôtel de Ville, rely on the metro or walking (very central locations).
Weather and Attire: Early January can be cold and humid: warm layers, hats, and gloves are essential (especially for ice rinks and outdoor markets). Bring good non-slip shoes if you plan to skate.
Plan Visiting Times: A major exhibition deserves at least 1.5–2 hours, a festival like that of the Arts Forains requires 2 hours to enjoy it without stress. For fairs, plan for 1–2 hours if you want to talk with artists.
Family and Accessibility: Many of the events above are designed for children (Casse‑Noisette, Pocahontas, Festival du Merveilleux). Check the recommended ages and entry conditions (reduced rates for youth/students).
Enjoy the last days of winter activities and the must-see exhibitions still available in early January. Between culture, skating, and performances, this weekend offers a perfect balance for all tastes — organize your slots, dress warmly, and let yourself be surprised by the capital after the holidays.
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