13 must-see events in Paris to bookmark for your next trip

Ah Paris, the land of romance, glitz, and glamor. There’s so much to do in Paris—made even better with its exciting lineup of events throughout the year. If you’re looking to plan a trip to the city, why not make it extra special by visiting during one of these Paris events or festivals?

When: end Feb–Mar

Paris Fashion Week is much lauded around the world and is part of the ‘Big Four’ fashion shows that are held in Paris, Milan, London, and New York. Nobody does fashion like Paris; stay tuned for kaleidoscopic fashion shows and events that entice the best fashion outfits, designers, and celebrities to the city.

When: April–June

One of France’s oldest traditional funfairs, running since 1805, the Foire du Trôone promises a good time for all ages. Held every year at Pelouse de Reuilly, the nostalgic funfair is home to many classic rides and attractions. Go on a giant ferris wheel, trundle along on rollercoasters, and venture into haunted houses on ghost trains.

When: June–September

It’s a party all summer long in Paris, starting with the famous Paris Jazz Festival. Grab a beer and head outdoors—the festival draws over 200,000 visitors, and for good reason. Founded in 1994, the festival merges music and nature on the lawns of Parc Floral de Paris, boasting a varied and dynamic lineup.

When: June

On June 21 each year, Fête de la Musique takes over the streets of Paris. This street music festival uses the city as its stage, with a whole slew of live—and mostly free!—performances throughout the city. Think free theatrical performances, circus acts, dance pieces, and more in Paris' parks, squares, or in front of monuments.

When: June–July

Held in July, Tour de France is one of the biggest events for cycling fans all over the world. For the uninitiated, it’s a world-renowned multi-stage cycling competition for men. The long-distance route stretches across about 2,175 miles all over France, before coming to a much-anticipated end in Paris. The finishing line is at the Champs-Élysées, drawing hordes of spectators looking to catch the euphoric moment.

Join in the fun—sans the crowds—from one of these hotels in Champs-Élysées.

When: June

More commonly known as Paris Pride, Marche des Fiertés goes all out with an exhilarating carnival and a vibrant concert, drawing thousands of participants who march in support of the LGBTQIA+ community. The party never stops; even after the day’s activities, the crowds flock to Paris' LGBT-friendly clubs and bars to continue the revelry.

When: September–December

Fall is when the city transforms into a golden-red wonderland, with temperatures gradually getting colder as winter approaches. Established in 1972, the Paris Autumn Festival embraces this change, heralding an explosion of music, dance, theater, film, and visual arts performances held throughout the city.

When: October–November

Calling all sweet tooths out there, this one’s for you. At the end of October each year, the Palais des Congrès de Paris plays host to the Salon du Chocolat (Paris Chocolate Show). The decadent affair draws top chocolatiers, skilled artisans, and cocoa producers from all over the world to showcase their skills and products. Expect a glorious Chocolate Fashion Show, as well as spectacular chocolate sculptures. The best part? You’ll get the chance to sample more chocolate than you could possibly eat.

Book yourself a room at one of these nearby hotels to crash after your chocolate-induced sugar high.

When: October

Say “bottoms up!” at Fête des Vendanges (Grape Harvest Festival), which calls out to all self-professed wine connoisseurs come October each year. Held at Montmartre Hill, the festival highlights wine produced at Clos Montmartre, which is Paris’ last surviving vineyard. Attend wine tastings, along with exhibitions and concerts.

The pop-up market is free for the public to enter, but to visit the vineyard, you have to buy a ticket for the Musée de Montmartre, which includes a guided tour and wine tasting. Stay at one of these hotels in Montmarte and you’ll only need to stumble a short distance back to your room at the end of the day—you can thank us later.

When: September

And of course, what’s a trip to the French capital without sampling some of its best food? The three-day Fête de la Gastronomie is a nationwide food festival that celebrates the art of cooking and eating good food. Held on the first day of fall each year, the festival welcomes an array of food tastings, hands-on workshops, and exclusive sessions with top chefs.

When: November–January

If you’re lucky enough to be in Paris for the Christmas season, you can’t miss out on the many Christmas markets. Join in the festivities at multiple markets across Paris; popular ones include the Notre-Dame de Paris Christmas Market, the Christmas Village at Les Halles, the Champs-Élysées Christmas Market, and the Village de Noël du Champ-de-Mars at the Eiffel Tower. These markets usually run from November to January, giving you plenty of chances to sip on mulled wine, explore the twinkling huts, go ice skating, and load up on traditional food items.

When: January

Are you a fan of Cirque du Soleil? Catch the acts before they venture to the world’s stages at Festival Mondial du Cirque de Demain (Festival of Tomorrow), where talented performers engage in a heated competition to earn a spot in the circus lineups. Competition categories include juggling, acrobatics, and tightrope walking—showcasing only the best of the best. It’s next happening in January 2023, giving you plenty of time to plan your trip.

When: end Feb

Carnaval de Paris is finally back this year, bigger and better for its 24th edition.

The carnival is a years-long tradition, taking place just before Mardi Gras. Back in the 18th and 19th centuries, people dolled up in elaborate disguises, turning the streets into a giant party. Expect nothing less than a dazzling, colorful, and explosive celebration like no other.

The carnival invites participants to come donned in their loudest costumes, and join in the joyful parade. Starting from Place Gambetta, the parade makes its way to Place de la Republique in a flamboyant explosion of music and color.

Raring to get going? There’s plenty going on in Paris all year round. You can shop 'til you drop at the fantastic January sales at Paris’ major department stores and boutiques, check out swanky vintage cars at the Retromobile Car Show in February or join in a joyous celebration of St. Patrick’s Day in March.

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