Paris, the city of love and lights, is a popular destination for tourists all around the world. Its beautiful architecture, rich history, and delicious cuisine make it an attractive place to visit during any time of the year. With Thanksgiving being one of the most widely celebrated holidays in the United States, many people wonder if Paris celebrates this holiday as well.
Thanksgiving in France
Thanksgiving is not a national holiday in France and is not celebrated by most French people. However, there are some expats and Americans living in Paris who do celebrate this holiday.
American Expats in Paris
Since Paris is a cosmopolitan city with a large expat community, many Americans living in Paris celebrate Thanksgiving just like they would back home. They get together with friends and family to enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving meal consisting of turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, cranberry sauce and pumpkin pie.
Restaurants Serving Thanksgiving Dinner
For those who do not wish to cook at home or cannot find all the necessary ingredients to prepare a traditional Thanksgiving meal, many restaurants in Paris offer special menus for this occasion. Some popular restaurants include The Hard Rock Cafe Paris, Joe Allen Restaurant, Ralph’s Restaurant and Bistrot de l’Etoile.
Other Ways to Celebrate
If you are looking for something different than a traditional Thanksgiving dinner or cannot find a restaurant serving it, there are still plenty of ways to celebrate this holiday while visiting Paris. You can take a stroll along the Seine River or visit some of the famous landmarks such as Eiffel Tower or Notre Dame Cathedral.
- You can also enjoy some French cuisine at one of the many cafes or bistros throughout the city.
- Take a walk through one of the many parks such as Jardin des Tuileries or Luxembourg Gardens.
- Visit a museum such as the Louvre or Musée d’Orsay to appreciate some of the world’s greatest art collections.
Conclusion
Paris may not celebrate Thanksgiving as an official holiday, but there are still plenty of ways to enjoy this festive occasion while in the city. Whether you choose to celebrate with friends and family, indulge in a traditional Thanksgiving meal at a restaurant or explore the city’s many attractions, Paris has something for everyone. So why not plan your next trip to Paris during Thanksgiving and experience everything this beautiful city has to offer?