Would you like to know how to pronounce the “Champs Elysées?” For the first word, you say the name “Shawn.” But right before you’re about to touch your tongue to the roof of your mouth to make the “n” sound, you swap it out with a “z” instead. Still with me? So it’s like this – shaw(n)z – ay-lee-zay.
It’s been around since 1670 as a grand avenue leading up to the king’s palace (which is now the Louvre). But back then it was planted with trees, wheat and oats. And now . . . 
Now it’s a tad more commercial. The Champs Elysées is one of my favourite places in Paris. For one thing, it’s very cheerful, with all the stores and restaurants and people. And you don’t notice the crowds because the avenue is so wide. Plus – it’s easy to get to.
But at Christmas!
Oh, at Christmas –
and especially Christmas at night . . .
everything comes to life.
Lights everywhere.
Lights – and trees!
Let’s take the avenue in one sweep. This is looking towards the Place de la Concorde.
The Louvre is just beyond that.
And here is looking in the opposite directions towards the Arc de Triomphe.
Here’s the Arc closer up.
Paris is magical at all times.
But even more so at Christmas–time!
Next week! The Marché de Noel
Paris at Christmas…I had no idea that I wanted to see it, but now I do! GORGEOUS!
Greta recently posted…The Winter Running Doldrums
You do! You do want to see it!
Confession: I am not a fan of Paris. I’ve been there quite a few times and the city just doesn’t speak to me… However, it seems like I should have gone at Christmas time, because this is soooo pretty!
Kerstin @ Auer Life recently posted…Old School Blogging – Christmas Edition
Christmas is a deal changer. I first went to Germany during the Kris Kringle mart period and I am a forever fan.
Ohhhhkie dokie. Now I need to go see this action at Christmas. Thanks for the sheer eye candy. 🙂
Keely recently posted…December Date: Christmas Ambiance & Jammies.
Yup. You just need to come. I mean, once you’ve given birth and everything. 😉
Well then, see you next Christmas!! 😉 How cold is it there right now? Thank you for showing me this so I can tell Tim to bring me there at the holidays! 😀
Elaine A. recently posted…Old School Blogging – Holiday Edition!
Yay! I’ll be twiddling my thumbs until you get here.
I’ve been to France twice….and now I want to go again, but ONLY so I can see Paris at this time of the year. You need to host a blogging conference there, Jennie! xoxo
erin margolin recently posted…The Twins Turn Eight!
Tell me about it! Blogging conference would be so much fun here!
That looks amazing!
Alison recently posted…Shenanigans (Or What Goes On When The Husband Is Away)
Gorgeous. We spent Christmas in Paris 2 years ago and I still remember how stunning the Champs-Elysees was!
Wish I could be there this year! 🙁
Ameena recently posted…square one
Me too! But I bet NY is more enchanting than LA during Christmas time. 🙂
I took my mom there for my birthday and Christmas in 2001 – now I realize it’s been WAY too long since I’ve seen these lights in person. Next year maybe???? xoxo
tracy@sellabitmum recently posted…Letting Go
There is always a good reason to come to Paris (especially when you have a friend there who is waiting to pamper you).
Oh, this looks so gorgeous!
I have always wanted to go to Paris – the city of lights, indeed! 🙂
Kim@Co-Pilot Mom recently posted…Old School Blogging: Holiday Edition
Only one thing to do. You just have to come.
I’ve only ever seen Paris in the spring and summer. But your Christmas pictures… they actually kind of choked me up a little! GORGEOUS!
Andrea recently posted…Old School Blogging, Holiday Edition
That must mean you need to come!