Welcome back to The Velvet Runway and our guide to the “Habits de Lumière” Epernay : a celebration of champagne and light, by Senior Editor, Hannah Rees.
You’ve probably already heard of Reims, the capital of the Champagne region of France, known for its stunning Cathedral where Charlemagne was crowned — as well as, of course, the “bubbles“.
That being said, you may not have heard of Épernay, a small town about 30 km south of the capital city, that is not as well known. But trust me, it is definitely worth knowing as it is a place many champagne houses call home.
Indeed, crossing the town is the famous Avenue de Champagne, a UNESCO World Heritage site and often called “the most expensive avenue in the world” with kilometers of underground champagne cellars beneath it !
And what could be better than this ? Well, every December, as Christmas grows closer, the whole town comes alive to celebrate with its famous 3 day festival : “Habits de Lumière”.
In 2025 The City of Epernay, in partnership with the Avenue de Champagne Committee, is organising the 25th edition of the Habits de Lumière on the 12, 13 and 14 December.
It was originally launched as an event to thank the locals who are so important in champagne production. Now it’s open to the general public and is one of the major champagne events in France in December.
A 3 day celebration of champagne and light
Every December, the elegant Avenue de Champagne in Épernay — the heart of France’s Champagne region — transforms into a glittering stage for Habits de Lumière, a three-day festival that celebrates the art of living à la française. Light shows, champagne tastings, and gourmet experiences bring this historic avenue to life, blending heritage and modern creativity in true Champagne style.
Now in its 25th edition, Habits de Lumière continues to draw visitors from around the world, eager to experience the magic of Épernay illuminated — a perfect winter escape for lovers of fine food, sparkling wine, and French culture.
“Habits de Lumière“
The name translates literally to “clothes of light” and if you have ever been to the festival, you’ll understand where the name comes from.
The event takes the Avenue de Champagne as its main stage, as it should and for three days, the street (and whole town) turns into a venue for performances, celebrations and projections.
The opening and closing ceremonies are particularly spectacular with the façades of the champagne houses being lit up with video projections and pyrotechnics. What’s more, there’s live music, champagne tastings (of course!) as well as other gastronomy demonstrations — and for those of you who like collectors cars, there is even a vintage car parade !
25th anniversary of the Habits de Lumière
This year, the festival celebrates its 25th anniversary, on the 12th, 13th and 14th December 2025, which means that it promises to be even more spectacular !
Like any year, you can expect each evening to be welcomed by an artistic light displays on the façades of “Moët & Chandon“, “Perrier-Jouët“, and “Pol Roger” — and on top of that, you can also look forward to jugglers, dancers, brass bands — turning the whole town into an open-air cabaret for three days !
In terms of food and drink, most champagne houses host special events — the big houses like Moët & Chandon, Mercier, and Perrier-Jouët often open their courtyards, while smaller producers offer intimate cellar visits.
And in terms of food, a few places are worth mentioning such as La Table Kobus which offers pairings with exceptional champagnes, Symbiose which is a newer address which offers modern French cuisine with an emphasis on regional flavors. And finally, La Grillade Gourmande, for those who like a convivial and warm setting !
Pro Tip: Arrive before sunset to see Avenue de Champagne transform as the illuminations begin. The best vantage points are near Moët & Chandon or the Hôtel de Ville.
How to get to the Habits de Lumière
Getting to Épernay from Paris will take you approximately 1h30 by train. You can take the direct TER Grand Est service from Gare de l’Est to Épernay, or connect via Reims. If you’re driving, the A4 motorway takes you through Champagne country—past frosted vineyards and sleepy villages—offering one of the most scenic winter routes in France !
And from Reims, it’s as easy as a 35 minute train ride or a 40-minute drive through the vineyards – making it a perfect day trip or weekend getaway !
Épernay is small, so for the festival weekend, make sure you book early as rooms fill quickly.
Les Suites du 33 is a great choice for elegant suites located on the Avenue de Champagne. There is also the Hôtel La Villa Eugène, a former mansion turned boutique hotel, perfect for travelers seeking a quiet retreat amid the festivities.
And finally, if you can’t find a place in Épernay itself, surrounding villages like Hautvillers, or Pierry offer charming chambres d’hôtes where you can wake to vineyard views and (hopefully) fresh croissants.
Hautvillers is famous as the “Cradle of Champagne” because the Benedictine monk Dom Pérignon perfected winemaking techniques there in the 17th century. The village is also the final resting place of Dom Pérignon, and its historic hillsides are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Pro Tip: Consider staying in Reims and taking the short train to Épernay — it’s often more affordable and still convenient.
What to wear to the Habits de Lumière
This is France after all so you need to dress for the event — which is glamorous beyond doubt and since we are talking about champagne, there needs to be a hint of sparkle.
To fit in with the French crowd, women can opt for a wool coat, chic boots, and perhaps a touch of sequins or velvet. Add some warm gloves and red lipstick—the simplest nod to Parisian elegance. Men, on the other hand, can opt for a good wool coat, leather gloves, and a smart scarf. Think champagne-colored accents—ivory, gold, or navy—to echo the season’s glow.
But be careful because the nights can be cold—temperatures hover around freezing—and you don’t want to be ill for the holidays ! So above all, dress for warmth and movement: you’ll be walking, toasting, and dancing beneath the lights.
Pro Tip: Pack a warm but stylish scarf — it’s the French woman’s secret to staying chic while keeping the cold at bay. Opt for a soft wool or cashmere wrap in a neutral tone that complements your winter coat; it will add instant polish to your outfit and come in handy during champagne tastings in the open air.
Final thoughts on Habits de Lumière Epernay : a celebration of champagne and light
Habits de Lumière is an event that captures what the Champagne region — and France — is all about. So raise your glass and let Épernay’s party atmosphere light your way into the festive season while you toast to that French art de vivre !
Whether you’re a champagne connoisseur, a culture enthusiast, or simply looking for a festive getaway with French flair, Habits de Lumière is a celebration that truly lives up to its name — “clothes of light” that captures the spirit and sparkle of Épernay.
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Cheers to the Festive Season,
Article By Senior Editor, Hannah Rees
Hannah Rees is a writer based in Paris. She currently divides her time between completing her second novel, writing songs on her guitar and working as a fashion designer for private clients. She has a strong fashion background, having studied fashion design in Paris, and counts Prada, Lemaire, House of Marlow, Saint Laurent and Stella McCartney among her influences. She loves discovering the world and dreams of going to Iceland.