Sources: Paris Convention and Visitors Office, Paris Mayor's Office
The below calendar applies to August 2011.
Festivals and Seasonal Events
- Paris Plages (Paris Beach)
From July 21st to August 21st, a full-fledged beach with sand, games, cafes, and even boating will take over the banks of the Seine and the Bassin de la Villette in North Paris. Paris Plages has enjoyed enormous success since its launch in 2002 and attracted millions of visitors last year. On hot nights, sipping a drink at one of the open-air bars installed on the beach or enjoying live music is always enjoyable. Kids will also find plenty of things to do, from games to science workshops.
More on Paris Plages: See pictures from the beach boardwalk at Paris Plages 2010 and find a free concert in the "FNAC Live" festival lineup this year.
- Open-Air Cinema Festival at the Parc de la Villette
Dates: July 19th through August 21st, 2011
Every year, Parisians and visitors spread out blankets at the ultramodern Parc de la Villette, where some 36 movies are shown on a giant outdoor screen as part of an open-air cinema festival in Paris. Starting to see why August is a great month for movie aficionados? In 2011, entry is free.
Arts and Exhibits
- Marc Desgrandchamps
The Musee d'art Moderne de la Ville de Paris is hosting an important retrospective of French contemporary painter Marc Desgrandchamps, displaying some 40 large-format works in addition to drawings, gouaches, collages and works in other mediums.
When: Through September 4th, 2011.
Location: Musee d'Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris
11 Avenue du President Wilson Metro/RER: Alma Marceau or Iena
- Charlotte Perriand 1903-1999
One of the 20th century's great conceptual furniture designers, Charlotte Perriand was also a prolific and gifted photographer. The Petit Palais takes a look at a cross section of her best works.
When: Through September 18th, 2011
Location: Petit Palais
- Paris-Delhi-Bombay
The National Museum of Modern Art at the Centre Pompidou is offering an intriguing look at contemporary Indian culture and arts through works of both Indian and French artists. This "hybrid" exhibit shows the strong and surprising creative ties between France and India.
When: Through September 19th, 2011.
Where: National Museum of Modern Art at the Centre Pompidou
- From Lutecia to Paris
An important exhibit curated on the site of the archaeological crypt at Notre Dame Cathedral reveals how Paris evolved from its Greco-Roman guise (it was formerly called "Lutecia") to become a medieval capital of a Christianized Europe. Those interested in Paris history should reserve time for an exhibit that promises to be illuminating.
When: Through February 26th, 2012.
Where: Notre Dame Cathedral, Archaeological Crypt
- The 18th Century Back in Fashion
Through October 9th, "The 18th Century Back in Fashion" at the Grand Trianon at the Chateau de Versailles shows off pieces from fifty 20th century designers whose ready-to-wear and haute couture creations were inspired by the pomp and theatricality of 18th century fashion, all the while infusing a modern sensibility into the clothes. From brocades and hoop petticoats to lacy embroidered patterns and dramatic flounces, designers from Christian Dior to Karl Lagerfeld, Alexander McQueen or Vivienne Westwood incorporate some of these decidedly indulgent elements into pieces, some more "wearable" than others, which bring fantasy and regalia back to the modern wardrobe.
When: Through October 9th, 2011.
Where: Grand Trianon, Chateau de Versailles
Visit the official website for more information
- The Louvre: Medieval and Renaissance Illuminations
(From the official Louvre website:) "Seventy Italian, French, Flemish, and Germanic illuminations from historical, literary, or liturgical manuscripts, dominated by the masterpieces of Lorenzo Monaco, Jean Fouquet, Guillaume Vrelant, Simon Bening, and Giulio Clovio. The Louvre’s collection of illuminations remains little known, despite the famous masterpieces it comprises. "
Location: Musee du Louvre
When: Through October 10th, 2011
Visit the official website
More Paris Events in August: Shows and Performing Arts
More on Visiting Paris in August: August Weather and Packing Guide
