5 things to do in Paris this weekend

The month of December kicks off with a great weekend. Under the sparkling Christmas lights that now adorn the streets of Paris, several pop-ups and markets with a festive theme are launching in the hope of enticing local shoppers in search of a gift for the holiday season. Additionally, we suggest trying one of the best Greek restaurants in the city this weekend, or one of the newly opened nightclubs – either way, you won't be disappointed. Discover what Paris has to offer this weekend.

Where to Eat - Yaya Secrétan

Finding authentic and refined Greek cuisine in Paris is quite challenging. However, the newfound interest in the simple yet hearty cuisine of the Cyclades has filled the city's Greek restaurants. Yaya is the affectionate term for "grandmother" in Greek, so it's not surprising that Yaya Secrétan emphasizes family above all, a meeting place for loved ones with long wooden tables and olive trees. Keeping in mind the seasonality, the plates to share depend on fresh produce and its availability. To start? Pikilia, or shared mezes: hummus, homemade pita, tzatziki. We also recommend Spanakopita, a tasty spinach puff pastry with phyllo dough, feta, and a fresh herb vinaigrette. Next, and especially depending on the season, we suggest their winter moussaka, as traditional as it gets. Or their shared chops, accompanied by a Greek salad and crispy potatoes. Additionally, Yaya Secrétan offers a brunch every Sunday from 12 pm to 3 pm, with an all-you-can-eat buffet at €36 per person.

33 avenue Secretan, 75019

Must-See - Iris Van Herpen Retrospective

To celebrate the 15th anniversary of the Dutch designer's eponymous brand, an exceptional retrospective is taking place at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs until April 28th. Known for her futuristic collections, often defined by sculptural, innovative, and trompe-l'œil elements, this exhibition is the perfect opportunity to get up close with one of the most exciting contemporary artists in the fashion industry. Exhibition visitors can expect to explore all the materials and methods Van Herpen has used throughout her career to achieve such status. From her 3D-printed dresses to other innovative technologies, you can discover the processes through which the designer's gravity-defying creations come to life. Moreover, over a hundred of her creations will be on display, accompanied by installations and photographs, immersing visitors in the corridors of Van Herpen's design studio.

Musée des Arts Décoratifs - 107 Rue de Rivoli, 75001

Where to Have Fun - L’Usine Winter Fest

Winter Fest is the place to be this weekend for good food, music, and shopping. Set in the historic industrial premises of Usine Spring Court, where the famous sneakers worn by John Lennon and Serge Gainsbourg were manufactured, the event will run all weekend, from Friday to Sunday. What's on the agenda? Archive sales from Spring Court Kids, Tricot Paris, Moismont, and more. An exceptional gastronomic section is also planned, with a dedicated menu offered by Diadié Diombana from Freddy's Kitchen, Juan Pablo Pineda, and Paola Michel, who recently participated in organizing the Evian & Coperni celebration dinner. On Friday night, the venue will transform with a DJ set by Pépite. Note that the space may fill up quickly, so make a reservation to secure your spot.

5 Passage Piver, 75011

Where to Shop - Merrma Earth Pop-up

Now that Christmas is near, it's time to start thinking about what gifts to get for your loved ones. Merrma Earth, the London-based accessories brand, is coming to Paris this weekend for a Christmas-themed pop-up market, taking place on Saturday and Sunday. Other participating brands include Leorosa, Je Suis Casting, Fruity Booty, Del Sol, Lys Over Sea, and Diane V. With the presence of different brands, buyers can expect to find an eclectic collection of accessories, beauty products, clothing, and much more, just in time for the holidays. The pop-up will be open from 11 am to 7 pm on Saturday, and from 12 pm to 5 pm on Sunday.

11 rue de Picardie, 75003

Where to Party - Gate

Although it's a bit far from the city center, this recently opened nightclub is definitely worth a visit. Thanks to the Parisian event agencies Haiku and Culture, who were behind the now-closed Carbone nightclub, Paris night owls can now rejoice in the opening of Gate. Set to the rhythms of house and techno, the club illuminated in red features VIP areas surrounded by glass tiles and a large dance floor. Additionally, the club's interior and lighting are designed by Ato Designs, known for its installations during Fashion Week. For this particular project, the design studio envisioned bright rectangles hanging above the dance floor, creating a very 80s atmosphere. On Saturday, the club welcomes French DJ and producer Agoria for a night of dancing from midnight to 6 am.

2, place de la Porte-Maillot, 75017