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What free things to do in Paris this summer? 11 ideas to try out!

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The Editor


The Paris Concert for Bastille Day

Like every year, on the occasion of July 14th, the City of Paris, Radio France, and France Télévisions organize a free concert on the lawns of the Champ-de-Mars. This year, the date has been moved up to July 13th to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the Nice attacks, but it doesn’t affect the event's program at all. Festivities will kick off at 8 PM with a concert by the Radio France choir, celebrating its 80th anniversary. Things will get serious at 9 PM with a performance by the National Orchestra of France in front of the Eiffel Tower. Of course, the symphonic concert will wrap up with the iconic Bastille Day fireworks at 11 PM.

Concert in Paris
Champ de Mars Lawn — 7th
Monday, July 13, 2026
8 PM – 11 PM
Price: free, no reservation required
More info


Arrival of the Tour de France for the most motivated

You definitely have a summer memory with your grandmother, father, cousin, or uncle in front of the TV watching the Tour de France, but have you ever thought about seeing it live? No need to travel for Parisians, because the finish line is none other than on the Champs-Élysées. So spending a summer in Paris turns out to be the perfect opportunity to experience this extraordinary atmosphere on July 26.

Arrival of the Tour de France
July 26, 2026
Expected arrival at 7:30 PM
More info


Garden Parvis for the good life lovers

Until the end of July, the parvis of La Défense is completely transforming. Over 6,000 m² are putting away suits and ties to create an open-air living space. Vegetation, activities, food and a guinguette bar: it’s hard to imagine how we lived without this the rest of the year! For 6 weeks, Garden Parvis will make the business district of the capital dance, sing, laugh, and have fun. Whether it’s for DJ sets, live concerts, pétanque, or creative and sports activities, you'll definitely find a great reason to stop by and take a look.

Garden Parvis
At the foot of the Grande Arche de La Défense
From June 18 to July 30, 2026
Monday from 11:30 AM to 8 PM
Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday from 11:30 AM to 10 PM
Thursday from 11:30 AM to 11 PM
Sunday from 11:30 AM to 7 PM
More info


The Summer Garden at Quai Branly for Families

As every year, the garden of the Quai Branly museum transforms into a festival for 2 months. Centered around the current exhibition: Feathers of Paradise, the family-friendly programming revolves around animals and nature. With fun quizzes, outdoor screenings, exciting night events, a summers' lounge, and even a closing concert, you’re sure to have a summer filled with fun, learning, and family time: perfect for Parisians seeking a little escape!

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Summer Garden 2026
Musée du Quai Branly Jacques Chirac
37, Quai Jacques Chirac — 7th
From July 4 to August 2, 2026
More details here

o;infos and complete schedule  


NBA Summer House to (re)discover basketball

Attention basketball enthusiasts: the NBA Summer House is coming to Paris this Saturday, August 1st, and Sunday, August 2nd for a unique experience. This year, you can take part in a tournament, meet professionals, join activities, or even dance to DJ sets at the Palais Brongniart. One thing's for sure, you're definitely not going to forget these exceptional afternoons!

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NBA Summer House
Palais Brongniart
16, Place de la Bourse — 2nd
August 1 and 2, 2026

10 AM – 6 PM
Ticket Price: Free with reservation
More info


Festival Paris l’été to discover all the performing arts

Between art and nature, the Festival Paris l’été will let you enjoy countless performances. But we’re not just talking about theater, dance, or DJ sets. This festival also showcases less commonly recognized arts like circus, tightrope walking, cabaret, stand-up... And the best part is that all these events take place in gardens, monuments, and iconic locations throughout the capital, ranging from the Grand Palais at the Temple square, passing by a high school and two hospitals… Amazing!

Festival Paris l'été
From July 11 to August 4, 2026
Admission: free with reservation
More info


The Canal Summer for Fun in the Water

For its 19th edition, The Canal Summer is back stronger than ever! This must-attend festival in the northeast of the capital will once again get Parisians buzzing all summer long with an abundance of fun activities. For example, you can try your hand at engraving, learn how to make your own bread, join a dance, enjoy a cinema cruise, go canoeing, or even take part in some hiking thanks to this festival. We couldn’t have dreamed of a better summer in the capital!

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The Canal Summer
From Saturday, June 27 to Sunday, August 9, 2026
Price: free
More info

 

Paris Plages for the Sporty Ones

No need to introduce Paris Plages and its refreshing swimming spots during the heatwave. But did you know that they're also offering free sports classes of all kinds? You can learn kayaking, rowing, climbing, zip-lining, and more… So don’t hesitate, go meet new people, have a great time, and learn alongside professionals thanks to Paris Plages!

Paris Plages
From July 4 to August 30, 2026
Cost: free
More info


Paris Under the Stars for Dreamers

Spending a warm summer night lying on the grass watching the stars is a timeless classic. And just because you’re in Paris doesn’t mean you have to miss out! This summer, the French Astronomy Association is inviting you to join in for 22 free evenings of sky observation and activities. You can discover more about the fascinating world of astronomy in the main parks and gardens of the capital. Stars, constellations, eclipses, and planets: get ready to become an expert on the celestial world!

Paris Under the Stars
From June 27 to September 5, 2026
9 PM – 1 AM
Price: free, no reservation required
More info


Festivals at the Floral Park for Everyone 

As the beautiful days arrive, it’s not just one or two festivals taking over the floral park, but a delightful total of three ! Whether you’re into jazz, classical music, or even in elementary school, you’ll find your joy in the 12th arrondissement. The Paris Jazz Festival, Classique au vert, and Les Pestacles will showcase both established artists and emerging talents for enthusiasts and the curious alike. Just a heads up, even though these festivals are free, entry to the floral park will cost you €2.80. But really, what is that compared to the joy of a musical afternoon in the heart of nature ?

Festivals at the Floral Park
1, Artillery Road — 12th
From June 24 to September 6, 2026
Paris Jazz Festival
Classical in the Green
The Shows
Price: free (just 2.80€ for park entry)
More info


The exhibition WE ARE [still] HERE for culture

This summer, at the Petit Palais, urban art takes the spotlight, but not just any urban art… it’s French urban art! A total of 43 artists, including Seth, Invader, eL Seed, and EvazéSir, will be filling the Concorde hall to create a portrait of our time through various styles, techniques, and mediums. This exhibition might just be the perfect opportunity for you to dive into street art!

an art still too underrated.

WE ARE [still] HERE
Petit Palais
Avenue Winston Churchill — 8th arrondissement
From June 20 to September 20, 2026
Admission: free
More info