Bastille Day
One of the most iconic French festivals is undoubtedly Bastille Day, or, as the locals say, ‘le quatorze juillet’. The French national day is packed full of some of the most spectacular shows you can find, culminating in that awe-inspiring fireworks show from the Eiffel Tower.
With a military parade to watch during the day, concerts in the evening, and thousands flocking to places along the river to catch the fireworks, this is a day when all of France really lets its hair down.
Fête de la Musique
For years, the Fête de la musique (Festival of Music), has been a chance for musicians of every sort to show their stuff.
Performances run all day and well into the night every 21st of June, all over the city on everything from purpose-built stages, to balconies, to tiny street corners. Each section of town highlights its own musical style, regaling audiences with music and an energy that spreads to every tapping toe.
Cinéma en plein air
In one of Paris’s largest parks in the north of the city, come and lounge in the grass and watch some great films.
Showing everything from classic Hollywood to independent works by emerging artists on an enormous screen in the Parc de la Villette, this open-air theatre is like no other. With one film almost every evening from late July to late August, this is a unique Parisian event for you, your friends, or maybe a date.
Rock en Seine
For three days every summer, the very best international rock stars head to Paris for the famous Rock en Seine concert. In a large grass field just outside the city, this festival is perfect for hard-core fans and music lovers of every sort.
For a smaller (and free) version, the FNAC Festival Live runs four days in late July, showcasing some of the newest national and international talent. The best part, though, is its location just in front of the iconic facade of the Hôtel de Ville.
Paris Plages
You’d never think of a beach along the Seine, but, every summer since 2002, that’s exactly what there is. With sand, sun, swimming pools and palm trees, you can enjoy a taste of the tropics right in the heart of Paris.
Now expanded to the Bassin du Villette as well as the riverbanks, this is a perfect place to cool down for both adults and children.
We Love Green
Let loose your inner hippie at the We Love Green Festival. Hidden in the Bois de Bologne, one of Paris’s largest parks, music and art goes green at this environmental festival.
Attracting well-known bands and artists from around the world, this annual festival is fast becoming an icon of Paris’s environmental commitment and summertime scene. For three days, kick off your shoes and come finish off the summer with a bang.
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