Thanksgiving is a cherished tradition that brings families and friends together to share gratitude, love, and, of course, delicious food. While the holiday is quintessentially American, celebrating Thanksgiving in Paris offers a unique and enchanting experience. If you find yourself in Paris during Thanksgiving, you can still embrace the spirit of the holiday. Paris provides a unique blend of tradition and culture, making celebrating Thanksgiving abroad a memorable experience.
Here’s how you can enjoy Thanksgiving in Paris in 2024, from savoring a traditional dinner to capturing unforgettable memories with a photoshoot.
Where to Feast: Thanksgiving Dinner in Paris
While Thanksgiving isn’t traditionally celebrated in France, many restaurants in Paris cater to American expatriates and travelers by offering special Thanksgiving menus. These dinners often include the staples you’d expect: turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie—all with a Parisian twist.
Top Restaurants for Thanksgiving in Paris:
Ralph’s Restaurant Located in the chic Saint-Germain-des-Prés district, Ralph’s offers a luxurious Thanksgiving menu featuring roasted turkey, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie. The elegant courtyard setting adds a touch of Parisian charm to your holiday feast.
Le Smiths Bakery A cozy spot for families, Le Smiths Bakery serves a homestyle Thanksgiving dinner complete with stuffing, mashed potatoes, and seasonal desserts.
American Church in Paris The American Church hosts an annual community Thanksgiving dinner, welcoming everyone to enjoy a traditional meal while connecting with fellow expats and travelers.
Hotel Lutetia For an upscale celebration, Hotel Lutetia’s gourmet Thanksgiving dinner includes creative interpretations of turkey, sweet potatoes, and pumpkin pie paired with fine wines.
Joe Allen A Parisian staple since the 1970s, Joe Allen delivers a hearty Thanksgiving menu, including pecan pie and sweet potatoes that remind you of home.
Verjus This gourmet restaurant blends American traditions with French culinary artistry, offering innovative dishes using fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Thanksgiving Store Prefer a home-cooked meal? The Thanksgiving Store in the Marais provides essentials like canned pumpkin, cranberry sauce, and even whole turkeys.
(*) Tip: Reserve your table early, as Thanksgiving dinners in Paris sell out quickly.
Capture the Memories: Thanksgiving Photoshoot in Paris
Thanksgiving is not just about food; it’s about creating lasting memories with your loved ones. A professional photoshoot in Paris is the perfect way to immortalize the occasion. The city’s picturesque streets, iconic landmarks, and golden autumn hues create stunning backdrops for your holiday photos.
Photoshoot Location Ideas:
Eiffel Tower Elegance: Capture moments with the Eiffel Tower framed by vibrant autumn leaves. Early mornings or sunset hours provide the best light for stunning shots.
Seine River Stroll: Document candid moments along the Seine, with historic bridges and charming riverboats in the background.
Luxembourg Gardens: This serene park, adorned with colorful fall foliage, offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere for family portraits.
Montmartre’s Charm: The cobblestone streets and artistic vibe of Montmartre create a magical setting for Thanksgiving-themed photos.
(*) Pro Tip: Hiring a local photographer ensures high-quality images and access to the best locations.
Things to Do on Thanksgiving Day in Paris
Thanksgiving in Paris goes beyond dinner and photoshoots. Here are some activities to make your day truly special:
Explore Parisian Parks
Take a leisurely stroll through the city’s beautiful autumn parks:
Jardin du Luxembourg
Parc des Buttes-Chaumont
Champ de Mars (near the Eiffel Tower)
Visit World-Class Museums
Thanksgiving is an excellent time to explore Paris’s renowned museums without the summer crowds:
The Louvre: Home to iconic masterpieces like the Mona Lisa.
Musée d’Orsay: Famous for Impressionist art.
Sainte-Chapelle: Admire its breathtaking stained glass windows.
Take a Seine River Cruise
A Seine river cruise offers a unique perspective of Paris’s landmarks. Choose between a daytime tour or a dinner cruise to see the city lights.
Attend a Thanksgiving Service
For a spiritual touch, attend a Thanksgiving service at the American Cathedral or American Church in Paris. These communities often host special gatherings to celebrate the holiday.
Thanksgiving Shopping and Treats
Holiday Shopping
Paris’s department stores and boutiques start their festive displays in late November, creating a magical shopping atmosphere. Visit:
Galeries Lafayette
Le Bon Marché
Thanksgiving-Inspired Treats
Parisian patisseries often incorporate American Thanksgiving flavors into their creations. Try:
Pumpkin Tart or Pecan Pie at bakeries like Pierre Hermé or Angelina.
Why Celebrate Thanksgiving in Paris?
Paris adds a unique flair to Thanksgiving with its romantic ambiance, vibrant culture, and world-class cuisine. Whether you’re enjoying a gourmet dinner, strolling through scenic parks, or capturing memories with a photoshoot, Paris offers endless ways to celebrate while staying true to the holiday’s spirit of gratitude.
Tips for a Perfect Thanksgiving in Paris
Book Early: Secure your spot for popular Thanksgiving dinners well in advance.
Check for Events: Look out for Thanksgiving-themed concerts or gatherings.
Dress Warmly: Late November in Paris can be chilly, so layer up for outdoor activities and photos.
Embrace the Parisian Twist: Appreciate the French take on Thanksgiving traditions as part of the charm.
Final Thoughts
Celebrating Thanksgiving in Paris is a one-of-a-kind experience. Whether indulging in a Thanksgiving feast at a top Parisian restaurant, exploring iconic landmarks, or capturing cherished moments with loved ones, the City of Light offers countless ways to make your holiday extraordinary. Gather your loved ones, soak in the Parisian ambiance, and give thanks in one of the world’s most beautiful cities. Happy Thanksgiving!
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