Paris, December 24, 2025 – The RATP (Parisian public transport operator) has launched a special initiative to immerse commuters in the festive spirit, introducing Christmas-themed sound announcements on two metro lines. Running from December 22, 2025, until January 2, 2026, this program aims to enhance the holiday atmosphere for passengers across the city.
Festive Sounds Across Key Metro Lines
The special announcements are being broadcast on Metro Lines 1 and 4. As trains arrive at selected stations, the usual station names are accompanied by well-known Christmas carols played on a carillon. This unique auditory experience is part of RATP’s broader efforts to celebrate the holiday season.
Locations for Festive Announcements:
- Line 1: La Défense, Porte Maillot, Champs-Élysées – Clemenceau, Châtelet, Gare de Lyon, Porte de Vincennes, Château de Vincennes
- Line 4: Porte de Clignancourt, Barbès – Rochechouart, Strasbourg Saint-Denis, Saint-Michel, Odéon, Montparnasse – Bienvenüe, Porte d’Orléans, Bagneux – Lucie Aubrac
For instance, at Strasbourg Saint-Denis station on Line 4, passengers can hear notes of “Jingle Bells” (Vive le vent), while at La Défense station on Line 1, “Silent Night” (Douce Nuit) accompanies arrivals. These musical interludes are designed to bring a touch of holiday magic to daily commutes.
Additional Christmas Initiatives and New Year’s Eve Services
Beyond the sound announcements, RATP has also introduced other festive elements. At Pyramides station (Lines 7 and 14), a display features a model of historical Thomson-Sprague train equipment, surrounded by cosmonauts and aliens, adding a whimsical touch to the station environment.
In a related announcement, RATP confirmed that several metro, RER, and Transilien lines will operate throughout New Year’s Eve, from December 31, 2025, to January 1, 2026. This extended service will allow Parisians and visitors to celebrate the New Year without transportation concerns. Details regarding the specific stations and lines operating all night were provided previously.
The RATP has also made these special Christmas sound ambiences available on its Soundcloud page for those who wish to enjoy them outside the metro system.
Looking Ahead: New Year’s Eve Celebrations and Transport
As Paris prepares for New Year’s Eve, authorities have confirmed that the fireworks display and video mapping at the Arc de Triomphe will proceed as planned. However, a concert previously scheduled for the Champs-Élysées has been canceled due to security concerns. Metro stations around the Champs-Élysées will also be closed during the New Year’s Eve celebrations to manage crowds and ensure public safety.
This festive initiative by RATP underscores the city’s commitment to creating a joyful and memorable holiday season for its residents and visitors, both within and outside the public transport network.
Source: https://www.sortiraparis.com/actualites/a-paris/articles/338676-ratp-metro-ambiances-sonores-speciales-noel
