Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann: the most beautiful Christmas trees to see this winter
As the festive season approaches, Paris gathers under the Coupole to look out for the big tree. At Galeries Lafayettes, this event combines fashion, crafts and entertainment in a creative, family-friendly atmosphere. Each edition offers a precise visual narrative, backed up by figures and clear biases.
Under the Galeries Lafayettes dome: a Parisian ritual
For the 130th anniversary, Kevin Germanier designed a techno-poetic Christmas tree in 2024. With 20,000 programmable LEDs and fiber optics, the work is inspired by glittering dresses and a haute couture atelier.
In 2023, Charles de Vilmorin installed “The Christmas of my dreams” under the Coupole. The psychedelic, dreamlike atmosphere transformed the nave into a moving stage, full of colors and free drawings.
The tradition of the big Christmas tree has been part of the Parisian cultural calendar for decades. As a result, families often plan their visit to take advantage of the
“Under the Dome, each tree tells the story of an era and an emotion.
Practical tips for your visit to Galeries Lafayettes
In 2022, “Planète Sapin” featured a Nordmann with a green and blue decor, topped with a faceted ball. Sound and light animation was activated every 30 minutes, creating regular rendezvous for young and old alike.
To prepare for your visit, aim for a weekday opening, as the crowds are less intense. That way, you’ll be able to take better advantage of the lighting and perspectives under the Coupole. What’s more, go up one floor to find a quieter angle and sharper photos. In short, a little forethought makes all the difference, especially for families.
- Arrive early to avoid peak times.
- Check animation schedules every 30 minutes.
- Choose balconies for wider framing.
- Prepare a plan B in case of rain or strike.
- Recommended access by metro, station near boulevard Haussmann.
Five seasons of creativity at Galeries Lafayettes
The artistic line evolves from year to year, without losing the soul of the place. For example,
In 2021, “1,2,3… Christmas” thrilled the Coupole with a toy decor, a mischievous rabbit and an astronaut Santa Claus. Every 30 minutes, a sound and light animation was triggered, punctuating the visit like a show.
This red thread brings together technical innovations and decorative know-how. The play of reflections, materials and music create a simple story to share with the whole family. On the other hand, weekend peaks sometimes reduce traffic comfort. So it’s best to take advantage of quieter times to enjoy every detail.
Art, fashion and entertainment at the heart of Galeries Lafayettes
What these outstanding editions have in common is their dialogue with fashion. For example, Germanier and de Vilmorin used their codes to create a popular scenography. What’s more, the big tree becomes a bridge between workshop and showroom. As a result, the festivities are reflected as much in the finery as in the lighting.
On site, the experience extends from shop windows to indoor walkways. Children will be quick to recognize the characters, while image lovers will be on the lookout for the best perspectives. Boulevard Haussmann, meanwhile, offers a breath of fresh air for a break between shots. Galeries Lafayettes serves as a clear landmark in the winter stroll.
And tomorrow, which tree at Galeries Lafayettes?
For 2025, Jeanne Detallante designed “The Most Beautiful Gift”, a 16-metre tree decorated with 560 kg of red ribbon. Its 8 km of LED garlands promise a sober, graphic lighting presence.
The “gift” theme promises to be accessible, without losing the illustrator’s artistic touch. Red, a warm, legible color, helps guide the eye under the Cupola. What’s more, the choice of calibrated light is designed to give a crisp rendering for mobile photography. Galeries Lafayettes thus confirms a clear direction, readable by all.
The holiday season attracts a wide audience, from neighbors to travelers. And yet, the organization remains under control, thanks to cadenced animations and breathing spaces. As a result, each visitor can compose his or her own sequence, between balcony, nave and windows. This flexibility reinforces adherence to the ritual.
The same thread runs through all of them: a spectacular yet legible setting, supported by concrete figures and fashion references. In this way, parents and children grasp the story at first glance. What’s more, the Coupole acts as a natural stage, exposing every detail. Season after season, Galeries Lafayettes continues to light up the party in the heart of Paris.
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