A new space that shines a light on all urban cultures? That's the new project announced this Tuesday, March 18, by Rachida Dati, the current Minister of Culture. The idea? To give a true national and institutional recognition to urban cultures, which have been influencing society and especially youth for over 40 years now.
Soon to be located in the renovated old Pavillon Villette – completely refurbished for the occasion – this space named “Freestyle Villette - House of Urban Cultures” aims to breathe new life into the Parc de la Villette in the 19th arrondissement. It's set to open in the coming fall!
The new hip-hop hot spot in Paris
In a 1,000 m2 space, Freestyle Villette plans to bring together artists, choreographers, managers, and entrepreneurs from urban cultures, explains Le Parisien.
t="_blank">Le Parisien. A multidisciplinary place where you can meet and chat about different forms of art like hip-hop, rap, graffiti, street dance, and even sports.#CommuniquéDePresse | @datirachida annonce l’ouverture à l’automne 2025 de « Freestyle Villette - Maison des cultures urbaines » lieu permanent dans le parc de @LaVillette 👉 https://t.co/3SCLQ92KAN pic.twitter.com/kDY3kMc9u7
— Ministère de la Culture 🇫🇷 (@MinistereCC) March 18, 2025
For now, the management has been entrusted to the current president of the Public Establishment of the Parc de La Villette and the Grande Halle de La Villette, Blanca Li, a Spanish dancer and choreographer known for her innovative approach that blends different dance styles, from hip-hop to contemporary and classical. She aims to create an open space for everyone, so calls for projects will be launched starting in May, allowing artists in these disciplines to submit their proposals and "blank slates".
Is this project casting a shadow over La Place?
With an opening planned for autumn 2025, the announcement of the project does stir up some tensions in the City of Paris. Even though it relies on networks of public establishments, cultural players, and existing venues, the City Hall reminds us that a dedicated space is also important.
Hip-hop already exists in Paris. The cultural center la Place, located in the heart of the capital under the Canopée des Halles, has dedicated its entire programming since its opening in 2015 to urban cultures in France, through workshops, concerts, and occasional festivals. However, the Freestyle Villette is expanding its scope, as the establishment – aiming for a more institutional vibe – will also highlight other influential disciplines like clubbing scene and electronic music.Voir cette publication sur Instagram
Freestyle Villette
Parc de la Villette
211, avenue Jean Jaurès – 19th
Opening in autumn 2025