Paris in December 2025: 10 not-to-be-missed 100% free events and activities in the Île-de-France region

Looking for a breath of fresh air in December 2025? Here are some simple and reliable ideas for free outings in Paris, designed to suit all budgets. The cold is setting in, yet the capital offers warm and friendly moments, sometimes even at the last minute, whether for a Christmas brunch or an impromptu stroll.

Culture ideas for December 2025

Galerie Joseph – Selection of nearly 300 original drawings from Japanese animation, between celluloid, genga and dōga. The exhibition is free from December 5 to 7, 2025, making it one of the most eagerly awaited free outings in Paris.
You’ll see rare pieces and, depending on the program, a highlight by Aibo Art Auction in context. Arrive early; what’s more, the short format attracts fans of moving images and creative collaborations, much like Paul & Joe’s signature deco collection.

Le D – Installation “Sur les traces du D.”, personal street art exhibition, from November 27 to December 12, 2025, free admission. This urban stage adds to the free outings in Paris for a sensitive look at the city.
The itinerary plays with the site and its materials, keeping the visit lively and accessible. Take time to observe; you’ll spot hidden details on every level, just as you would on an evening stroll before a New Year’s Eve party on a Parisian rooftop.

Printemps Haussmann – Rooftop skating rink, free from December 1 to 24, 2025, with 360° views. This winter interlude is one of the most photogenic free outings in Paris.
Gloves are recommended, and slots may be limited depending on the number of visitors. Arrive before dark to enjoy the sunset and then the lights, in the spirit of major celebrations such as New Year’s Eve 2026 in Paris.

“Paris in December is the art of doing a lot with a little.

Art and families, free of charge

Mairie du 17e – Arman exhibition, bronze sculptures, rare paintings and French flag, December 12, 2025 to January 31, 2026, free admission. The perfect opportunity to add real free Paris outings to your cultural agenda.
The municipal setting is reassuring, and the welcome is simple. Take an hour, then come back if you’d like to revisit a series in detail, or round off the day with a discovery like the Petit Palais Paris and its exhibitions.

Maison des 1000 Premiers Jours – Creative Christmas workshops using recycled materials, Wednesdays from November 26 to December 17, 2025, free of charge. Here are some free outings in Paris that will appeal to children, while promoting eco-responsibility.
Places fill up fast, so plan ahead, as the workshop is a small-group affair. If possible, bring your own materials, so that each child can leave with a creation.

• Check schedules the day before, especially in wet weather.
• Bring gloves and a hat for outdoor rinks.
• Arrive early on weekends; crowds are heaviest.
• Identify wheelchair and stroller access points before you set off.
• Keep an ID for equipment loans.

Open-air Christmas

Petit Palais – Finnish National Day with the Moomins, meetings, workshops and activities, December 6 and 7, 2025, free. This family event is part of a series of free outings in Paris focusing on the gentle Nordic spirit.
Iconic characters reassure the youngest visitors, while workshops are suitable for everyone. Take the opportunity to visit the museum’s free permanent collections.

Grand Marché de Noël des Tuileries – Free admission, from November 23 to December 31, 2025, with local crafts and gourmet stalls. One of the most popular free events in Paris at the end of the year.
Shopping is optional, of course, so strolling around is enough. Choose an early-morning slot, so the stroll stays fluid.

Hôtel de Ville de Paris – Free ecological ice rink from December 15, 2025 to January 5, 2026, in the heart of the forecourt. This rink is one of the many free outings in Paris that bring together all generations.
Gloves required according to instructions, and supervised gliding time. In the evening, the atmosphere changes, yet the line sometimes gets lighter.

Quartiers en fête

La Défense – Big Christmas market, free admission, from mid-November to December 28, 2025, with brightly lit aisles. Easy metro access makes it a great after-work outing.
There may be a charge for some activities, but the walk is free. Seek out local craftsmen and craftswomen; you’ll be supporting practical know-how.

Ground Control – Free Après-Ski evenings on December 12 and 20, 2025: ugly sweater parade, karaoke, DJ set, snow cannon. This address adds a festive touch to free evening outings in Paris.
Good-natured atmosphere and warm clothing recommended. Arrive early, as the gauge can fill up very quickly.

Great dates to remember

Maison de la Chimie – “Des Livres, Des Artistes” festival, free event on December 6 and 7, 2025. Readers, you’ll find book signings, meetings and a serene atmosphere, ideal for free book-related outings in Paris.
Take a tote bag for your purchases if you’re so inclined. The program varies according to the authors present, so be curious.

Patinoire des Courtilles d’Asnières-sur-Seine – Christmas enchantment, skating entertainment on December 6, 2025, free of charge. Families and friends get together to skate, then share a hot chocolate.
Skates available on loan subject to availability, but remember to bring thick socks. The setting is friendly and easy to get to by public transport.

Finally, keep an eye out for last-minute announcements, as slots are sometimes added. This way, you can add to your list of free outings in Paris without spending a single euro. Paris lives outside, but covered venues take over when it rains. So keep a plan B close to your neighborhood to avoid the crowds.

• free outings in Paris