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Festivals & Seasonal Events in Paris, France

15 recurring festivals, farmers markets, and seasonal events for families.

Christmas Markets in Paris

Returns NovSeasonal Market

Annual, typically November through December

Paris transforms into a winter wonderland each holiday season with enchanting Christmas markets scattered throughout the city's most iconic locations. These traditional Marchés de Noël offer families a magical mix of twinkling lights, festive chalets selling handcrafted toys and treats, carnival rides, and opportunities to meet Père Noël himself. It's an immersive cultural experience that combines French holiday traditions with entertainment that delights children of all ages.

Cinéma en Plein Air (Open Air Cinema at Parc de la Villette)

Returns JulOutdoor Movie

Annual summer series, July through August

Every summer, Parc de la Villette transforms into Paris's largest outdoor cinema, projecting films on a giant inflatable screen under the stars. This beloved Parisian tradition offers families a magical way to experience movies together in one of the city's most family-friendly parks, combining cinema with picnic-style relaxation. Kids love the novelty of watching movies outdoors while sprawled on blankets, and the diverse film selection often includes family classics, animations, and international favorites.

Festival d'Automne (Autumn Festival)

Returns SepFestival

Annual autumn festival, September through December

Festival d'Automne transforms Paris into a vibrant cultural playground each fall, showcasing innovative theater, dance, music, and visual arts performances across the city's most iconic venues. While primarily an avant-garde arts festival, select family-friendly productions feature imaginative puppetry, physical theater, and interactive performances that captivate young audiences without language barriers. It's a wonderful opportunity for culturally curious families to experience world-class contemporary arts in the heart of Paris during the beautiful autumn season.

Festival Paris l'Été (Paris Summer Festival)

Returns JunConcert Series

Annual summer series, June through September

Festival Paris l'Été transforms the City of Light into an open-air cultural playground each summer, with free and affordable concerts, dance performances, and theatrical shows spread across Paris's most beautiful parks and historic venues. This family-friendly festival offers an authentic Parisian summer experience where children can enjoy world-class performances in magical outdoor settings, from classical music in château gardens to world music under the stars. It's a wonderful way to introduce kids to diverse performing arts while experiencing Paris like a local during the enchanting summer months.

Fête de la Musique (Music Festival Day)

Returns JunConcert Series

Annual, June 21st

Fête de la Musique transforms Paris into a massive open-air concert venue every June 21st, with free performances on every corner, in parks, squares, and streets throughout the city. This beloved French tradition welcomes musicians of all levels—from professional orchestras to neighborhood bands—creating a joyful, accessible celebration where kids can experience diverse music genres while soaking up Parisian summer energy. It's a magical way for families to experience authentic French culture without spending a euro on tickets.

Fête du Trône

In Season: Mar–MayFair

Annual spring fair, typically March/April through May

The Fête du Trône is one of France's oldest and largest funfairs, transforming the Bois de Vincennes into a magical wonderland of rides, games, and traditional carnival excitement for over 1,000 years. This spectacular spring celebration features over 350 attractions ranging from vintage carousels to thrilling modern rides, making it an unforgettable experience for families visiting Paris. The festive atmosphere combines classic French fair traditions with contemporary entertainment, offering something special for every age group.