The count down to Christmas officially begins, and what better way to start December than with a seasonal blog post about my latest visit to one of Paris’ busiest Christmas Markets along the Champs-Élysées. The Christmas market adorning the Champs-Élysées is probably one of the most popular ones in Paris, and this should not really be a surprise. Before entering what was the beginning of the market, I had very high expectations of what I was about to experience. Living in probably one of the chicest places in the world, I thought that the renowned Christmas market along the Champs-Élysées would live up to such standards. However, I was sadly proven wrong. The entire market is divided along the avenue on either side.

Whilst the christmas lights adorning the avenue are lovely, the market itself is, well, unique (not sure if that’s in a good way or not). The only thing really christmas-y about the market were the grottos and the decorations, but that’s pretty much it. You may find the odd stall selling traditional ginger bread christmas goodies, but there other 90% of stalls seem to be more than happy to sell neon pink candy floss (barbe à papa en Francais) and popcorn. Some other unusual sights were various stalls dedicated to iPhone covers which guarantee that not even a hammer can break the sustainable surface (I know this because one man kindly demonstrated to me), and another stand was devoted to giant stuffed jungle animals – who said that they cannot have christmas in the jungle? Despite the many un-christmas like stalls, there are few gems that I bought some lovely presents from. Oh, and there is Chaud Vin, which is always a plus!

As much as I want to urge you to go and visit the Champs-Élysées Christmas Market, I wouldn’t really bother. Whilst the atmosphere was invigorating, overall it did not win me over. The routes around the market are hazardous, so be warned! Make sure to look where you’re walking, and try not to spill any of your precious chaud vin, which is an impossible task but bonne chance.