Sources: Paris Convention and Visitors Office, Paris Mayor's Office
The below calendar applies to October 2011.
Festivals and Seasonal Events
- Nuit Blanche (White Night): Don't miss this annual celebration of all things art and culture, in which hundreds of museums, galleries, and other spots around Paris keep their doors through most of the night with free exhibits, multimedia installations, and performances.
When: Saturday, October 1st, 2011
Where: Various locations around Paris-- (read Nuit Blanche 2011 guide)
- Vendanges de Montmartre (Montmartre Wine Harvest: Witnessing the Vendanges de Montmartre is a fantastic way to experience the best of Paris in autumn. The village-like Montmartre neighborhood boasts vines that still produce decent wines-- how many major cities can claim that? Each year, the harvest is celebrated with much fanfare, bringing together musicians, performing artists, wine connoisseurs and lovers.
When: October 6th-10, 2011
Where: Metro Abbesses (line 12).
See more information on the 2011 Vendanges de Montmartre
- International Contemporary Art Fair (FIAC): One of the most important annual events in Paris' contemporary art scene, the FIAC showcases work this year from 165 international galleries and over 2,500 artists at three locations on the city's right bank. A "galleries' night out event" brings dozens of the city's smaller galleries into the heart of the event. See pictures from the 2009 edition of the FIAC here to get a sense of the spirit of this iconic event.
When: October 20th-23rd, 2011
Where: Grand Palais, Tuileries Gardens, Jardin des Plantes
For more information: Visit the official website
- "Musical Waters" at the Chateau de Versailles
Experience the mingling of light, water, and classical music in the gardens of the world's most famous chateau. Perfect for a surreal mid-summer evening.
When: Every weekend through October 30th.
Where: Chateau de Versailles
Visit the event website for dates and times.
- The Autumn Festival: Since 1972, the Paris Autumn Festival or "Festival de l'Automne" has brought in the post-summer season with a bang by highlighting some of the most compelling works in contemporary visual art, music, cinema, theater, and other forms. Consult the official website for program details (in English).
When: Through December 2011.
Arts and Exhibits
- From Lutetia 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 October Events: Shows and Trade Fairs
More on Visiting Paris in October: October Weather and Packing Guide
