Paris during Thanksgiving Week

We visited during Thanksgiving last year. It was fabulous! There were just a few Americans there on vacation, but otherwise not many tourists at all. The Christmas Market by the Louvre was open, everything was decorated for the holidays, and most fun, all the stores had "Black Week" or "Black Weekend" sales. We ate falafel on Thanksgiving day (so much better than turkey, ha) and did a lot of shopping! The only downside was that the weather was raw (cold, rainy) - but that's Paris for you.

I was in Paris the week of Thanksgiving and wore layers plus a lined raincoat and carried an umbrella. I don’t remember being cold.

We were in Paris Nov. 20-Dec. 3, 2018. We went to the Christmas markets near the Louvre and La Defense. We preferred the one near the Louvre. The one at La Defense seemed larger, but more sterile, less atmosphere. There was also a small market at St. Germaine des Pres. We took bus tour of the Christmas lights that was wonderful, but we froze our fannies! It was about 30 degrees and of course we sat up top on the double decker bus for the best views. It was cold (and I’m from Oregon!) while we were there. Probably mid 40’s when we went to Versailles. Layer are key.

If you provide your nightly budget in Euros, we can help with suggestions. Where have you stayed previously?

I've read that the Christmas Markets in Metz are very nice. Look like they are tentatively scheduled to open November 18th. We will be there in December. It's just 1 hour 25 minutes from Paris by train. Reims looks like a nice day trip too, in the Champagne region. Only 45 minutes by train.

I was there last Thanksgiving and will be there this Thanksgiving. I enjoy going this time of year. It's low season as low season can be.

Great thread, will be there that week too.

Strasbourg Christmas Market opens 21 Nov this year. You can take a train out and make a full day out of it. Enjoy.

Sadly, the Christmas markets in Paris pale in comparison to the ones in Alsace and Germany. Even the Metz market is wonderful. The cheesy Paris markets sell tourist tat made in China.

I guess if you’re already in Paris, and can’t manage a trip to Alsace, then go to the Paris market(s) for the atmosphere, but just know you’re missing the real thing.

Were there last year at that time, it was cold and rainy. But as we kept saying to each other, it may be cold and wet but we're in Paris! Have hats gloves brella and waterproof shoes and coats at the ready. There was some Christmas activity around St. Germain des Pres area, and of course the two dept. stores were chock full of shoppers (oddly, the giant Santa in Lafayette had an astronaut theme).

We did a daytrip to Strasbourg and the markets were in full swing (there were several spread around the city), just beware that night falls early so it could impact your sightseeing so catch an early train (take the river tour). If you want to see the main cathedral make sure you're inside when it's still light so the windows are lit up, there are some other pretty churches in the city as well.

These are all great suggestions! I appreciate feedback!
As far as budget, we don't have a specific number in mind, but we are mindful and thrifty wherever we can be.
I was considering a perfume tour - I keep seeing those pop up online. Worth it?
Also in consideration is the Paris Flea Market and a show at the Moulin Rouge.
Any restaurants you loved?
We are totally up for day trips outside of Paris, so keep the recommendations coming!

Hi!
Just commenting on Paris Flea Market (Puces de Saint Ouen): that's only a possibility on Saturdays and Sundays (the Internet will tell you Monday as well, but many stands are only open by appointment on that day). It is giant, with several separate markets, and quite fascinating - but pricey. I may be a local, but I have no idea how to bargain / get good deals in such a place. Especially for the furniture.
But there are stalls/shops dealing in all kind of objects besides furniture, especially in the Marché Dauphine if I remember well.

Coming by metro, be alert: the walk from Porte de Clignancourt (Line 4) is not 100% reassuring. If convenient to you, Garibaldi (line 13) is close enough as well and the walk to/from there is safer.

There are two other, outdoor only, Sunday flea markets at Porte de Vanves - less fancy, more knick-knacks and less furniture, and Porte de Montreuil - avoid, it's basically a garage sale with cheap clothes on top.