Paris Fashion Week
Twice yearly
An institution in the world of glossy magazines and designer clothing, Paris Fashion Week takes place twice a year – once to showcase spring/summer collections, once to promote autumn/winter collections. The events are usually a whirl of catwalk shows and parties.
Nuit des Musées
May
An initiative launched by the French Department of Culture, the Nuit des Musées sees a huge range of museums and galleries across Paris open up to the public – for free – between dusk and 1am.
Fête de la Musique
21 June
This world music day, since taken up by various international cities, first came into being in Paris in 1982. There are free concerts and street performances, with various genres catered for and music generally carrying on into the wee hours.
Paris Plages
July-August
Every summer, the banks of the Seine are given a tropical makeover, with temporary beaches laid down to provide some respite from the often-fierce heat. The beaches are free to visit – you’ll find beachside cafés, riverside games and even the odd palm tree.
Paris Autumn Festival
September-December
Held for more than three months each autumn, this festival involves everything from drama and music to dance and cinema, with a huge programme of events laid on at various prices and at various locations.