{"id":14710,"date":"2014-08-11T05:39:36","date_gmt":"2014-08-11T09:39:36","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/?p=14710"},"modified":"2025-06-10T15:49:15","modified_gmt":"2025-06-10T19:49:15","slug":"top-yearly-events-paris","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.nyhabitat.com\/blog\/2014\/08\/11\/top-yearly-events-paris\/","title":{"rendered":"Top Annual Events in Paris"},"content":{"rendered":"

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Updated June 3rd, 2025<\/strong><\/p>\n

Do you think Paris is best experienced in the summertime or Christmas season? Think again! The French capital is a perfect complement to the changing seasons, so you are guaranteed a wonderful trip no matter what time of year you visit. Here are some of our favorite annual events to guide your itinerary in the City of Lights!<\/p>\n

International Agricultural Show<\/strong><\/p>\n

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Cows and other livestock are the stars of the International Agricultural Show<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

It\u2019s the largest week-long farm tour you\u2019ll ever experience! Since its origins as the General Agricultural Competition in 1870, the International Agricultural Show has grown to not only showcase France\u2019s livestock, but the best regional, dairy, organic, and wine products from dozens of countries. Four separate sections make up the exhibition: horses, sheep, cows, dogs, cats, and other farm animals; gastronomic delights such as produce and wine; gardens of crops and greenery; and professional discussions on the ever-changing business of agriculture.<\/p>\n

In order to accommodate its extensive display, the International Agricultural Show moved to the Porte de Versailles Exhibition Centre<\/strong> and has remained there since 1925. In accordance with the approach of spring, the fair is generally held over the last week of February<\/strong> from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m daily. Access to the venue is easy via public transportation; the Metro, tramway, or bus will get you there! As of 2025, Tickets cost 16\u20ac for adults, 9\u20ac for students and children between the ages of 6 and 12 years old, 11\u20ac for people with disabilities, and free for children under the age of 6. While you\u2019re there, snap a photo with the expo\u2019s current animal ambassador!<\/p>\n

Paris Carnival<\/strong><\/p>\n

The Paris Carnival is France\u2019s equivalent to New Orleans\u2019s Mardi Gras and Rio de Janeiro\u2019s Carnaval. Locals celebrate this Parisian tradition in the streets. The Paris Carnival dates back hundreds of years, when it lasted from January 7th until the beginning of Lent. The festival traditionally united all social classes during its month-long celebrations, with upper-class events like regal balls and working-class parades.<\/p>\n

Today the Paris Carnival is one day only, typically the Sunday before Mardi Gras<\/strong>. Revelers arrive in droves in colorful costumes and in many cases, masquerade masks. The event is free whether you are participating or spectating. The route and the theme are subject to change, so check the official website in advance for full details!<\/p>\n

Paris Marathon<\/strong><\/p>\n

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Thousands of runners make the Paris Marathon a top sporting event <\/div>\n<\/div>\n

The Paris Marathon ranks with New York and London for its popularity. Thousands of runners representing hundreds of nations will compete for the title across 26 miles and 385 yards. It\u2019s a bit of a workout to be sure, but the route is unparalleled: the race begins along the Champs-\u00c9lys\u00e9es, passes the Seine River, goes through the Bois de Boulogne, and finishes on the Avenue Foch. Runners will zoom past scenic views of iconic Parisian landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe, and Notre-Dame Cathedral (see other notable attractions in Paris here<\/a>).<\/p>\n

The Paris Marathon takes advantage of the spring weather and is typically held on a Sunday in April<\/strong>. Registration is required in order to participate. Considering the marathon\u2019s huge numbers, space is limited. Sign up as early as possible when pre-registration begins in May<\/strong>. For the 2026 Marathon, it costs 179\u20ac for a solo entry to the race, with price increases in June and September. A doctor\u2019s clearance is no longer mandatory since 2024, replaced by a Health Prevention Course certificate (PPS) or an upload of a FFA license. Runners are organized into starting times according to their jogging ability. More options\u2013such as representing an organization or running in the disabled race\u2013are available.<\/p>\n

Foire du Tr\u00f4ne<\/strong><\/p>\n

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The Ferris wheel is a classic attraction among many at the Foire du Tr\u00f4ne<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

Families can have a perfect day at the Foire du Tr\u00f4ne, a beloved Parisian fair. In the 1100s, the Rue du Faubourg Saint-Antoine became the site of a centuries-old marketplace, where pastries\u2013including the bazaar\u2019s famous gingerbread\u2013were sold and acrobats amused the masses. Over the years, the fair relocated and expanded. Today, its home is in the Bois de Vincennes<\/strong>, on the lawn known colloquially as the Reuilly. It delights guests with a Ferris wheel, thrill rides, carnival games, and cutting-edge entertainment.<\/p>\n

The fair runs for two months from April to June<\/strong> between the hours of noon and midnight (Friday and Saturday hours extend to 1:00 a.m.). Even better than the festival\u2019s lengthy duration is the free admission! Keep in mind that food, rides, and other attractions may be priced individually. The fairgrounds are easily accessed via Porte Dor\u00e9e Station on the M\u00e9tro 8 line. Our Parisian furnished rentals<\/a> will have you ready to plan your festival-going experience in no time.<\/p>\n

Nuit des Mus\u00e9es<\/strong><\/p>\n

For one night each year, Paris museums open their doors to those who seek a break from the ordinary. The overnight hours underscore a different mood for all of the work on display, and some works are illuminated by special lighting. Special events are held in celebration, and museum halls are filled until the clock strikes midnight. This magical evening is known as Nuit des Mus\u00e9es.<\/p>\n

Galleries across the whole city participate, including some titans of the museum world: Mus\u00e9e d\u2019Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris<\/strong>, Ch\u00e2teau de Versailles<\/strong>,and the Louvre<\/strong>. Given the free admission (with the exception of certain exhibits), you can expect long lines. Acquaint yourself with a map of museums and nearby M\u00e9tro stations to make the most of your time: Nuit des Mus\u00e9es only lasts from 6:00 p.m. to midnight for one night in May<\/strong>.<\/p>\n

F\u00eate de la Musique<\/strong><\/p>\n

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A jazz band performs to the delight of passersby during the F\u00eate de la Musique<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

Music lovers, take note: the F\u00eate de la Musique will have you singing along. Held each year on June 21, the festival celebrates music all across France. Its goals are simple: to promote the talents of musicians, professional or amateur, and to sponsor free concerts for the enjoyment of the people. All different genres of music are celebrated and everyone is encouraged to listen, whether in their homes, on the M\u00e9tro, or outdoors.<\/p>\n

The 24-hour extravaganza takes advantage of the extra daylight on June 21<\/strong>, the summer solstice for the Northern Hemisphere. Since the inaugural F\u00eate de la Musique in 1982, the event has expanded beyond Paris to cities across Europe, the Americas, Asia, Australia, Africa, and the Middle East. It\u2019s the perfect excuse to wander around the French capital and discover rich melodies and the power of music, a language beyond cultural boundaries.<\/p>\n

LGBTQ Pride Parade<\/strong><\/p>\n

The Paris Pride Parade is France\u2019s salute to a global celebration of LGBTQ people. Members of the community, their families, friends, and allies gather in the city streets for a colorful display of floats, balloons, and many rainbow flags. The parade recognizes the cultural contributions and progress of the LGBTQ community, including legalized same-sex marriage in France, and brings awareness to progress yet to be made.<\/p>\n

The 2025 parade will take place on June 28th, starting at 1:30 p.m. The parade route has not been announced yet but traditionally concludes at Place de la R\u00e9publique around 5 p.m. Following the march, celebrations featuring concerts, dancing and speeches will be held at Place de la R\u00e9publique. The Marais district<\/a>, renowned for its vibrant LGBTQ+ community, will host numerous Pride-related events throughout the evening.?<\/p>\n

Bastille Day fireworks & military parade<\/strong><\/p>\n

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Fireworks and the illuminated Eiffel Tower conclude Bastille Day in an unforgettable fashion<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

There is no better place to commemorate the French National Day than in the heart of Paris. Bastille Day is the July 14th<\/strong> anniversary of the storming of the Bastille prison, which was widely considered to be the start of the French Revolution. Early in the day, watch the oldest continual military parade in the world: the Bastille Day Military Parade<\/strong>. Each year, thousands of soldiers from numerous regiments (some international) march down the Champs-Elys\u00e9es<\/strong> at the Arc de Triomphe<\/strong> until they reach the Place de la Concorde<\/strong>. There, the current French president, his associates, and ambassadors from around the globe welcome the soldiers. The parade begins around 10:45 and lasts until noon, with a flyover before the cavalcade commences.<\/p>\n

Bastille Day is known for its quirky traditions, including firemen\u2019s balls throughout the city (firehouses open their doors for demonstrations and music; entrance fees or donations applicable) and the Bal du 14 juillet gala (guests dress in elaborate costumes and dance at the Bastille prison site; usually held on July 13 despite its name).<\/p>\n

To finish the night, witness an incredible Bastille Day fireworks display with the Eiffel Tower<\/strong> in the center. Join the crowds on the Champ de Mars (free, and crowded!) or book a reservation on a cruise down the Seine (not free, but breathable and romantic) for a view of the spectacle. Enjoy a lovely finish to a day of merriment.<\/p>\n

Paris Plages<\/strong><\/p>\n

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Crowds gather on the makeshift beaches during the Paris Plages <\/div>\n<\/div>\n

Bring the beaches of southern France to Paris! It may not be exactly the same, but Paris Plages are close enough. Sunbathing along the Seine is now possible thanks to the program\u2019s artificial beaches. You\u2019ll also find ice cream vendors, rollerblading, and tai-chi at the original site, which stretches from the Louvre to the Pont de Sully at the Rive Droite (the Right Bank of the Seine). A second spot on the Rive Gauche (Left Bank) of the Seine, extends from the Rotonde de Ledoux to the Magasins G\u00e9n\u00e9raux near the Bassin de la Villette. At this spot, you\u2019ll discover more dynamic activities like kayaking, boating, and other water-based sports.<\/p>\n

Originally an installation for Parisians who were unable to escape the city during the summer, Paris Plages is now popular and well-received by locals and tourists alike. It runs from early July into late August<\/strong>, and beaches are open from 8:00 a.m. until midnight. Relaxing is free, but add-ons (including the water sports complex at the Bassin de la Villette location) will cost a few Euros. In contrast to most French beaches, topless sunbathing is prohibited, and until recently, swimming in the Seine was too, but starting in summer 2025, three designated river swimming zones will officially open to the public. Of course, if you’re inspired to take a trip to the south of the France, we can help<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Journ\u00e9es du Patrimoine<\/strong><\/p>\n

In 1983, the French Ministry of Culture sponsored a set of days during which exclusive historical monuments opened their doors to the public. It was an excellent idea, and the annual program was officially established in 1991. The mission has not changed: government offices (such as Paris City Hall), privately-owned estates, and other historical areas are a few sites that participate in this event.<\/p>\n

Dates change annually, but the Journ\u00e9es du Patrimoine are usually organized on a weekend in mid- to late-September<\/strong>. Most of the locations are free to enter (with certain exceptions) and are located all across Paris. Queues will likely be long, so be mindful as you plan your weekend visits. We recommend a backstage tour of the Moulin Rouge, if available, for a taste of legendary French culture.<\/p>\n

Nuit Blanche<\/strong><\/p>\n

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Artists use Paris as their blank canvas to create mesmerizing installations across the city during Nuit Blanche. (Photo credit: Jacques Dillies \/ Unsplash)<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

If you thought the Nuit des Mus\u00e9es was magical, then the Nuit Blanche will be a wonder to behold. As summer begins and the days stretch longer, Paris transforms into an interactive art exhibit for one night. Each year, alternating artistic directors helm magnificent installations in different neighborhoods of the city where natives and visitors can interact with art, music, and theatre in organic and unexpected ways. Art galleries also stay open after hours.<\/p>\n

Nuit Blanche takes place on the first Saturday of June between the hours of 7:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m<\/strong>. Most of the exhibitions are free of charge, but certain ones (especially inside museums) may cost extra. From nightfall until daybreak, Paris will be illuminated in ways you\u2019ve never seen! A Paris bed and breakfast<\/a> would make a perfectly picturesque accommodation as you explore Nuit Blanche and Paris in early summer, don’t you think?<\/p>\n

Holiday season in Paris<\/strong><\/p>\n

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The Galeries Lafayette goes for the gusto during the holidays. The towering Christmas tree and elaborate d\u00e9cor is a testament! <\/div>\n<\/div>\n

Christmas is a beautiful time to spend in the City of Lights, and Paris certainly takes its nickname seriously during December. Christmas Markets<\/strong> can be found in nearly every corner of the city, from the most diverse at La D\u00e9fense, to the quaintest in Montmarte. The largest and most popular market now takes place at the Jardin des Tuileries<\/strong>, offering festive stalls, rides and seasonal treats in a central location. You\u2019ll find precious trinkets, wintry treats like gingerbread and mulled wine, garlands, stringed lights, and perhaps even Santa Claus himself. The Champs-\u00c9lys\u00e9es becomes the site of another show: Christmas lights<\/strong> adorn trees and glimmer along the boulevard, and projectors flood the avenue with even more light from the Arc de Triomphe to the Place de la Concorde. You can see the lights from late November until the first week of January.<\/p>\n

Like the displays of Macy\u2019s in New York City and Harrods in London, the Galeries Lafayette on Boulevard Haussmann matches their luxurious merchandise with lush window decorations<\/strong>. Each year brings a new whimsical theme, past highlights include 2013\u2019s theme, \u201cLa Belle & La B\u00eate,\u201d which embellished the department store\u2019s exterior with roses, candles, and other romantic touches. Step inside the Galeries to gape at the gigantic Christmas tree under the store\u2019s lavish dome while you\u2019re there.<\/p>\n

Want to practice your Biellmann spins or double toe loops? Multiple ice skating rinks<\/strong> are set up in Paris just for the season. You can visit the Grand Palais des Glaces<\/strong>, where a massive indoor rink is open, and after dark, the dome illuminates and DJs will get you dancing on the ice. Or head to the Patinoire des Invalides<\/strong> which will welcome skaters in the 7th arrondissement<\/strong>, in an eco-friendly rink with stunning views of the iconic H\u00f4tel des Invalide<\/strong>s. Lastly, enjoy skating at the outdoor rink at La D\u00e9fense<\/strong> in front of the Christmas market<\/strong>, where you can warm up with a hot chocolate by the chalets after a family skate. All of the rinks run on their own schedules in terms of dates and times, but most are free to enter and charge only a handful of Euros for skate rentals. Add a vacation rental<\/a> to your holiday to-do list as you take advantage of Christmastime in Paris.<\/p>\n

What Parisian traditions are your favorites?<\/p>\n

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From parades to museum nights, Paris celebrates year-round with its unforgettable events unfolding under the timeless gaze of the Eiffel Tower. (Photo credit: 139904 \/ Pixabay)<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

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