What Palais des Glaces is
“Palais des Glaces” refers to two different Paris venues. The historic theater is at 37 rue du Faubourg-du-Temple in the 10th arrondissement, near Canal Saint Martin. It presents comedy, music, musicals, circus acts, and other performances. The venue is also listed at 37 rue du Faubourg du Temple.
The Grand Palais des Glaces is a separate seasonal ice rink beneath the glass dome of the Grand Palais, at 3 Avenue du Général Eisenhower in the 8th arrondissement. It brings together ice skating, contemporary art installations, and festive nightlife (Grand Palais des Glaces).
History
The theater opened in 1876 as Boléro Star, later becoming Bijou Concert, a café-concert known for chanson performances and a lively atmosphere. Managers included Albert Schrameck and Paul Ruez, who also oversaw the Folies Bergère and Moulin Rouge. The venue became part of Parisian nightlife during the Belle Époque (source).
In 1924, the theater received a mirrored facade that gave it the name “Palace of Mirrors.” It briefly became the “Grand cinéma du palais des glaces,” attracting moviegoers with its exterior (source, source).
The Palais returned to live performance in the 1970s. Artists who performed there included Marcel Dadi, Touré Kunda, Nina Simone, and The Clash. Its intimate auditorium has 480 seats and has hosted music, comedy, and avant-garde performances (source).
In the 1980s, the mirrored facade was replaced by a whimsical elephant sculpture inspired by a memorable show. The elephant remains a symbol of the theater’s playful identity (source).
Mickael Chétrit and David Boukhobza acquired the theater in 2022 and began major renovations to modernize its facilities while preserving its heritage. The work included a refreshed logo and improved audience amenities (source).
What to see
The theater
The Palais des Glaces has a main hall for major acts and a Petit Palais des Glaces that provides a stage for emerging comedians, improvisers, rising performers, and experimental acts. Its motto, “morosité n’a pas sa place” (“gloom has no place here”), reflects its focus on creativity and joy (Cityzeum).
Performers who have appeared at the theater include Bun Hay Mean, Gad Elmaleh, and Caroline Vigneaux (Agenda Culturel). Its program includes comedy, stand-up, improvisation, musicals, children’s theater, and circus performances. Family-friendly programming, support for new talent, and community engagement are part of the venue’s activities (Cityzeum).
The theater also holds themed comedy nights, festivals, and circus showcases. Guided tours about its history and architecture are occasionally offered. The elephant facade and Canal Saint Martin setting are photo opportunities.
The Grand Palais des Glaces
Since 2012, the seasonal ice-rink event has transformed the Grand Palais into what has been described as the world’s largest indoor ice rink, hosting thousands of skaters each season (source). The 2024–2025 event combined skating with contemporary art installations and festive nightlife beneath the Grand Palais’s glass dome (Grand Palais des Glaces).
Practical visiting information
Palais des Glaces theater
Hours: Schedules include evening performances Tuesday to Saturday, usually around 8 PM, with afternoon matinees on selected weekends and school holidays, especially for families. Another schedule lists Monday to Saturday, 7:30 PM–11:00 PM, with weekend matinees at 3:00 PM. Check the official schedule for current showtimes.
Tickets: Tickets can be bought online at the Palais des Glaces website or at the box office. Prices are listed as usually ranging from €15 to €40; another price range is €22 to €50. Discounts are available for students, seniors, and groups.
Access and facilities: The theater offers wheelchair access, with staff support and advance support available. Facilities include a foyer, cloakroom, bar, and accessible restrooms (France Voyage).
Transport: République metro station, served by Lines 3, 5, 8, 9, and 11, is a short walk away; it is also described as a 5-minute walk. Bus lines 20, 56, and 65 serve the area.
Grand Palais des Glaces ice rink, 2024–2025
Tickets: Book online via the Grand Palais des Glaces website.
Sessions: Three daily sessions are listed: 10:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m., 2:00 p.m.–7:00 p.m., and 8:00 p.m.–2:00 a.m.
Prices: Children under 10: €15–€18; adults: €20–€25; night sessions: €36 per person.
Transport and access: Metro Lines 1 and 13 (Champs-Élysées – Clemenceau), multiple bus lines, and RER C (Invalides) serve the venue. The venue is fully accessible, with staff support for visitors with reduced mobility.
Facilities and activities: Daytime sessions are family-oriented, while night sessions include DJ sets. Skate rental is included. The venue has monumental art installations, food stalls with French treats, lockers, rest areas, and accessible facilities.
Tips
For the theater, check the official schedule for current showtimes. Guided tours are occasional; check the official site for details. Early ticket booking and checking official websites for current schedules are recommended.
For the ice rink, warm layers and gloves are required, and helmets are provided for children. Photography is allowed for personal use; professional equipment requires permission.
Nearby places
Near the theater are Canal Saint Martin, Place de la République, Centquatre-Paris arts center, Théâtre Antoine, and numerous restaurants and bars. The neighborhood has cultural venues and dining options.
Near the ice rink are the Champs-Élysées, Petit Palais, Avenue Montaigne, Seine river cruises, and luxury shopping districts.
Frequently asked questions
What are the Palais des Glaces theater’s visiting hours?
Evening performances are listed Tuesday to Saturday, with another schedule giving Monday to Saturday, 7:30 PM–11:00 PM. Matinees take place on selected weekends and holidays, including weekend performances at 3:00 PM. Check the official schedule for current showtimes.
How can I buy theater tickets?
Online at the official website or at the box office.
Is the theater accessible for people with disabilities?
Yes. It has wheelchair access, accessible restrooms, and staff support; advance support is available.
Is the theater the same place as the Grand Palais ice rink?
No. The Palais des Glaces is a year-round theater at 37 rue du Faubourg-du-Temple in the 10th arrondissement. The Grand Palais des Glaces is a seasonal ice rink at a different location.
Are guided tours available at the theater?
Occasionally. Check the official site for details.
What types of performances can I see at the theater?
Comedy, stand-up, improvisation, musicals, and children’s theater.
How do I get to the theater by metro?
République station, served by Lines 3, 5, 8, 9, and 11, is a 5-minute walk away.
How do I buy tickets for the Grand Palais des Glaces?
Online via the Grand Palais des Glaces website.
Is the Grand Palais ice rink accessible?
Yes, with staff support for visitors with reduced mobility.
