What's On in Paris

The City of Lights is alive throughout the year with a variety of festivals, events and celebrations. Below are some of the best annual events to attend in Paris.

Annual events in Paris

World Circus Festival of Tomorrow (January/February)

Some of the world’s best circus performers gather at the World Circus Festival of Tomorrow (Festival Mondial du Cirque de Demain), held in the early year, to put on a great show for young and old alike.

Paris Marathon (April)

The Paris Marathon welcomes runners from all around the globe who descend on the city to run 26.2 miles (42.2km) through famous landmarks such as the Champs-Élysées, the Tuileries garden and the Place de la Bastille. For the less athletic expats, it's still worth being a spectator at the event.

Fête de la Musique (June)

This annual celebration commemorates the summer solstice by turning all of Paris into one big party. Countless bands and performers take to the streets, cafés and bars throughout the longest day of the year and the following night to celebrate music, life, love and all things Parisian.

Bastille Day (July)

Commemorating the French Revolution, Bastille Day is celebrated on 14 July each year with ceremonies, dancing, parties and balls at venues throughout the city.

Tour de France (July)

In July each year, the eagerly anticipated and much-publicised Tour de France cycle race rides into town. Spectators line the streets, and the atmosphere in the city is always electric during this famous race.

Paris Banlieues Tango (November)

This vibrant festival transforms Paris into a tango extravaganza throughout November. Expats can enjoy numerous performances by some of the world’s best dancers, and they can also don their best dancing shoes and partake in the many lessons and workshops available around the city.