Trick or Treat?
If your answer is “trick,” brace yourself for the blunt reality: Halloween isn’t big in France yet. The French tend to be indifferent to this spooky holiday. Many view it as overly American, too commercialized, or just plain n’importe quoi. It’s not deeply embedded in French culture. Instead, during this period, they take a two-week break known as vacances de la Toussaint to honor the deceased on November 1st or 2nd.
However, if you say “treat,” there’s exciting news: Halloween is becoming increasingly popular in France, especially in Paris, with numerous ways to celebrate. As a New Yorker who treats Hocus Pocus weekend like Christmas, I’ve had my fair share of Halloween escapades in Paris, and each year seems to improve as the French embrace it more. Here are my tips for celebrating Halloween in Paris—fun and thrills guaranteed!
First, Where to Get Costumes
What would Halloween be without unleashing your inner Heidi Klum? It’s the perfect opportunity to break all the Parisian fashion rules!
If you’re up for making your own costume, I recommend my go-to trio of art supply stores in Paris: Rougier et Plé, Marché Saint Pierre – Dreyfus, and Leroy Merlin. Rougier et Plé is an expansive art store offering everything from fine arts supplies to jewelry beads across multiple floors. Marché Saint Pierre-Dreyfus is a six-story paradise for textiles—it’s nearly impossible not to find exactly what you need at the foot of Sacré-Cœur. Lastly, Leroy Merlin is your one-stop shop for Parisian home emergencies and also offers crafting materials, hardware, and paints.
If you prefer ready-made costumes and accessories, whether for purchase or rental, my favorite spots are À La Poupée Merveilleuse in Le Marais, Au Fou Rire in the 9th arrondissement, and Au Clown de la République on Boulevard Saint Martin. While these shops are open year-round, they get quite busy in October, so it’s wise to visit early to avoid long lines or out-of-stock items.
Next – Main Event: Families
Halloween is meant to be a shared experience, and I strongly advise against strolling the streets of Paris in costume without a planned event to attend.
Mairies
Many mairies and schools host Halloween parties filled with games and candy.
Disneyland Paris, October 1 – November 3, 2024
Even in my mid-30s, I find excitement in celebrating Halloween festivities at Disneyland Paris (especially because of the villains). The park offers entertainment for all ages and features spooky characters like Maleficent, Jafar, Captain Hook, and Cruella de Ville.
Halloween at Parc Astérix, October 5 – November 11, 2024, 10 AM – 6 PM
Parc Astérix goes all out for Halloween with haunted houses, attractions, and monsters. Haunted houses include Enfer à Pompei, Tomb of the Gods, The Catacombs, the Forest of Idefix, and a cursed ship zone as part of the celebration.
Paris Zoological Park, October 31, 2024
The Paris Zoo highlights the strange during Halloween. Rendez-vous Sauvages revolves around mythical and fantastic creatures, with experts illuminating ghostly animal stories. The Journée Frissons includes a fantasy trail and a parade beginning at 4 PM where candy is distributed.
Jardin d’Acclimatation, October 5 – November 11, 2024
Celebrate Día de los Muertos at Jardin d’Acclimatation, where the park is transformed with Mexican folklore. There are festive parades featuring mariachis, catrinas, skeletons, and fire artists. Attractions include the Bewitched River and the Mayan Labyrinth, concluding with a captivating baile de fuego (fire dance) at dusk.
Gamescape, October 25 – November 3, 2024
Join Sherlock Holmes on a thrilling quest to apprehend Jack the Ripper during this Halloween-themed murder mystery. Gamescape’s “Murder” event immerses you in a dark Victorian setting filled with clues and puzzles, suitable for players aged 15 and older.
Choco-Story Paris, Gourmet Chocolate Museum, October 19-21, 23-27, 31 2024
Get hands-on at the Gourmet Chocolate Museum’s Choco-Story workshops, where you can create your own Halloween treats! These workshops cater to participants of all ages.
Bercy Village, October 27, 2024, 12 PM – 5 PM
Children aged 4 to 10 can embark on a magical treasure hunt through Bercy Village, searching for 15 hidden ingredients to make a witch’s potion. Completing the quest earns them a sweet surprise! Start by picking up your booklet at FNAC.
Ferme de Gally, October 19 – 31, 2024
Enjoy Halloween at the Pumpkin Festival at Gally Farm, where kids can carve their own Jack O’Lanterns using pumpkins grown right on the farm. Even better, watch as their creations come to life at night with candles. Workshops are available for kids aged 3 and up.
Main Events for Adults
For the Laid-Back
Why not host your own celebration? For my 1920s-themed Halloween party among friends, I easily secured a private bar through Privateaser. A house party can also be a fun choice if you have friendly neighbors!
For the Party Animals
This year, I’m particularly excited about two events: À L’Eau Ween: Halloween Party on a Boat (because who hasn’t trick-or-treated on a bateau before?), and the Terror Halloween Party (for those seeking an authentic American Halloween experience and a wild good time).
For the Adventurists
If you’re up for a real adrenaline rush, consider immersing yourself in a true crime or mystery experience. What could be more thrilling than solving a crime investigation at The Live Thriller?
Finally, Have Fun
Halloween is best enjoyed with company, so surround yourself with those who match your vibe. If your Frenchies are not interested in celebrating with you, don’t take it personally—most Parisians use this time to recharge outside of the city, as they do with many French holidays. Keep in mind, the French do not say “trick-or-treat.” Instead, they ask for des bonbons ou un sort (candies or a spell) or friandises ou bêtises (sweets or mischief)!
This post may contain affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, we may receive a commission at no additional cost to you.
Written by Maikka Piquemal for HiP Paris. For travel bookings, check out Plum Guide and our Marketplace for fantastic vacation rentals in Paris, France, or Italy. Need help renting or buying property in France? Contact us! We connect you with trusted providers for exceptional service and rates, or click here for options. Want to bring a touch of France home or learn online or in person? Explore our marketplace shop and available experiences.
WRITTEN BY
Maikka Piquemal
Maikka is a Philippine-born, Brooklyn-educated creative who traded the hustle of New York for the romantic allure of Paris and a French partner. She holds a degree in Fashion Design from Parsons School of Design and is currently a writer in Paris, focusing on adtech, fashion, real estate, and more. When she’s not marveling at the Parisian fashion scene or absorbed in a good book from Gallimard, she escapes to the French Basque Country, daydreaming about living in London or Milan.
