Champs-Élysées New Year’s Eve, December 31: practical information, opening hours, access and transport

Paris is getting ready to set the Champs-Élysées abuzz for New Year’s Eve. Would you like to celebrate the changeover in the open air, amidst the lights and joyful crowds? Here are a few useful pointers to help you enjoy a stress-free evening, and an unforgettable moment, in complete safety.

Champs-Élysées: practical information for the evening

The rendezvous is set for December 31 on the most beautiful avenue, with a large popular gathering around theArc de Triomphe. The event attracts a varied public, sometimes families, sometimes friends. Patience helps: access is via dedicated checkpoints. For a smooth experience, arrive early and keep your documents to hand.

A vast pedestrian perimeter is being set up, with bag checks and a ban on glass bottles. Dangerous objects are still prohibited, as are individual fireworks. So travel light and keep warm, as the night can be surprising. In case of doubt, follow the sound signals and agents on site.

Lindt – Champs-Élysées(Box of festive chocolates). Two crunchy rows for a sweet break between songs, to share before or after midnight.

“A party open to all is first and foremost a well-prepared party that respects everyone.”

Schedules, show and countdown

The program revolves around a visual show projected onto the Arc. Animations precede the countdown at midnight, then the celebration culminates at the top. In addition, regular announcements guide the crowd to stay calm and grouped. Stay tuned for more information throughout the evening.

Pierre Marcolini – Gourmet Advent Calendar. Pralinés, ganaches and caramels prolong the festive spirit, perfect for waiting until New Year’s Eve.

• Arrive early for stress-free testing
• Choose warm, waterproof clothing
• Avoid glass; empty flasks accepted under controlled conditions
• Locate a subway station on the outskirts of town
• Agree a meeting point with your loved ones

The giant images offer good visibility from many points along the avenue. However, the crowds can be a nuisance for the little ones. So remember to stand back if you’re bringing children. That way, you’ll still have a good view of New Year’s Eve.

Access, transport and closures

Public transport will be reinforced to facilitate the return journey. Some nearby stations may close temporarily, depending on traffic and security. So plan a slightly longer trip out. For New Year’s Eve, make sure you have a plan B if an access road is saturated.

La Maison du Caviar x Pierre Marcolini – Caviar and chocolate advent calendar. Baeri Prestige Caviar 30 g, taramas, smoked salmon and homemade blinis: festive luxury at €150.

As at the end of each year, traffic controls are in place around the Étoile and Champs-Elysées. Vehicles do not have access to the pedestrian zone. So it’s best to walk from a station further away. In short, go light, and keep your hands free for your phone and papers.

Thoumieux – Santa’s log. A smart format for 1 or 2 people, at the low price of €18, ideal before or after the festivities.

Safety, weather and comfort

The weather dictates much of the comfort on site. A down jacket, a hat and good shoes make all the difference. On the other hand, avoid glass alcohol and personal flares: they’re forbidden. For a peaceful New Year’s Eve, follow the directions of the police.

Shangri-La Paris – Fleur de Vanille Yule Log. A haute couture creation by Timothy Lam, in a limited edition from December 1 to 31, 2025, with a highly refined style.

Louis Vuitton – Bûche de Noël 2025 hazelnut-lemon. Signed Maxime Frédéric, with a trio of chocolate fir trees and a wink of winter Vivienne.

Landmarks, families and after midnight

Before entering the avenue, set a simple fallback point: a subway station on the outskirts, a named crossroads, a landmark café. This way, if the mobile network becomes saturated, you avoid panic. As a result, every member of the group knows where to return. New Year’s Eve is best spent with this reflex in mind.

Dior – Yule log. From December 15, 2025 at 30 Montaigne, a sweet couture creation by Yannick Alléno, for a chic touch at home.

Drugstore – Bûche de Noël Lion. Vanilla and pecan dacquoise, pecan crunch, vanilla ganache, with a flowing pecan praline heart.

La Grande Epicerie de Paris – Bûches de Noël 2025. Three cakes in the spirit of the Christmas markets, a mix of chewy chalet, chocolate and vanilla.

• New Year's Eve