Top 5 Best Events in Paris

You could wander through the capital from morning to evening, without ever covering all the headliners. Especially since most events in Paris are ephemeral and unique. It will therefore be necessary to research well in advance, and above all, to make choices!

Once there, you will have the opportunity to take part in large-scale events or, on the contrary, to infiltrate the most intimate events.

Throughout the year, events in Paris will make you live to the frenetic rhythm of Île-de-France inhabitants. You will absorb the very essence of French tradition, starting by tasting fabulous culinary creations at food festivals! Or dancing until dawn aboard a barge on the Seine or dreaming in front of the most surprising artistic exhibitions.

You'll understand, one doesn't come to Paris to string beads! Your stay's program promises to be busy, that's for certain. Nevertheless, with well-organized planning, you shouldn't miss any of the confidential gems and privileges of the capital!

As we were telling you, although some Parisian events are renewed from year to year, most of them are unique. The advantage is that you will mostly experience new experiences with each of your visits to the capital. However, to enjoy them to the fullest, some preliminary research on programming during your stay dates is highly recommended.

1. European Heritage Days

Date or period: Every first weekend of September.

Access: Free

Description: Certainly, this event is not endemic to the French capital, but what better place than the city of a thousand museums and historic sites to discover or rediscover the wonders of French heritage for free? In addition, many places usually closed to the public open their doors for the occasion, such as the Élysée Palace or the National Assembly. An ideal event for all the curious and heritage lovers!

2. Fête de la musique

Date or period: Every June 21st.

Access: Free

Description: On the evening of June 21st, the entire city of Paris is in celebration! Numerous concerts, free for many, dot the streets, squares, parks and gardens of the City of Light. Music stars or small groups, rock, funk, soul, rap, jazz, classical... There's something for absolutely every taste! Moreover, you'll have more chances to come across music celebrities in Paris than in other French cities, where the music festival also takes place.

3. Nuit Blanche

Date or period: Every year, in June.

Access: Free

Description: Every year, in June, artistic creations of all kinds take possession of the streets of Greater Paris. Since its first edition in 2002, Nuit Blanche is one of the most popular cultural events in the capital. Wander through the streets in search of plastic works, ephemeral scenes and comedies or videos projected everywhere, which give a new face to Paris.

4. Chinese New Year

Date or period: Every year for 2 weeks, between January and February.

Access: Free

Description: Every year, the heart of winter announces the arrival of the most important event of the Chinese community. Throughout the world, this lunar year change, symbolized by an animal, is a large-scale celebration. For the occasion, Paris dons traditional Chinese colors. Particularly in the 13th arrondissement, where the festivities take on a whole different scale! The usual traffic gives way to a giant parade, numerous events, dances and concerts. Chinese New Year in Paris brings together several thousand people every year in a festive and popular atmosphere.

5. Paris l'été Festival

Date or period: Every year, in July.

Access: Paid €

Description: It's the summer cultural event par excellence! Paris l'été travels through the capital and the Île-de-France region, to bring shows directly to you. Outdoor activities invite you to take part in this cultural highlight. With theater plays, concerts or dance shows, more than 70 events – free or paid – take place during this hot summer month.