Paris in December, special things to do?

"I have heard that there are great Christmas markets, tree lightings, Christmas lights and other fun winter things going on this time of year?" That basically describes it, but I would emphasize that the Christmas displays show remarkably good taste (ie, no giant inflatable snow globes). Just go to all the sites that you would at any other time of year, and you'll see everything you listed.

Some time after the first week of December an elaborate ice skating rink is installed in front of Hotel de Ville. Skates are provided if you want to take a turn or two around, or you can just watch others showing off their expertise or lack of same. There is a Christmas Market at La Defense which I have not been to yet, but you can surely get info on that when in Paris.

There is also a skating rink on the first level of the Eiffel Tower. At least it was there when we visited in December 05. It is quite small, and we didn't skate, but I seem to remember the skate rental was free (after you paid your entrance fee for the Tower!). And the Galerie Layfayette department store has beautiful lights!

Thinking of my stomach as usual. I have never been to Paris in December, but in many trip reports from that time of year I read about enjoying hot chestnuts, and hot mulled wine from street kiosks,, and that sounds wonderful to me.. a steaming hot mulled wine to sip while sitting all bundled up gazing at the Seine..

Gosh, my husband and I went to Paris for the first week of December a couple years back - just walk! The city isn't overwhelmed with decorations as our American cities seem to be. We noticed a lot of greenery and small white lights. No big plastic figures, etc. Walk the gardens - the weather was cool, but not freezing. And find some small bistros. We had dinner at one with a small charming Christmas tree, decorated in white lights and small red bows. It was quiet, romantic and....hey - now I want to go back! Have fun!

Les Fetes!!!!!!! OMG, the lights! The hot mulled wine (vin chaud)! The gorgeous frosty-sprayed trees! The wonderful booths selling pork products and - have I mentioned the mulled wine? Last year there was a "European Village" installation at Trocadero, with booths selling Christmas stuff from many lands, plus an ice skating rink! The Eifeel Tower goes light-show-tastic every night - families are out in full force - there is music (and mulled wine) everywhere - start at the big carousel at the Place de la Concorde and just wander through the bazaar. You are so lucky to be going at that time of year!