What to do in Paris

Paris in August: Celebrations, Beaches, and Festive Experiences


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Listeners, if you are in Paris today, August 14th, or for the rest of this week and weekend, the city is alive with summer energy and some truly unique experiences.

First up, let’s talk about the Assumption holiday. August 15th is a major religious celebration in France, and Notre-Dame Cathedral is at the heart of it all. Tonight, a special river procession along the Seine gathers pilgrims, locals, and curious onlookers, kicking off one of the most moving spectacles of Paris in August. Tomorrow, August 15th, the festivities continue with a grand procession through the Île de la Cité after a solemn mass. This is a centuries-old tradition, full of pageantry and meaning. Even if faith isn't your motivation, witnessing this celebration at Notre Dame is something special that shapes the city’s atmosphere every summer.

If you’re looking for something more laid-back, Paris Plages transforms the banks of the Seine, the Canal Saint-Martin, and Bassin de la Villette into lively urban beaches, now open for the season through the end of the month. Grab a deckchair, dip your toes in the sand, splash in the river—yes, open-air swimming is officially allowed in the Seine this year—in between games of pétanque, fun beach sports, and open-air exhibitions. There are Brazilian cultural showcases, outdoor dancing, and lots of entertainment for children. Think sunshine, palm trees, and music, all for free, right in the city’s heart.

Festival season is going strong. The Fête des Tuileries is open daily in the Tuileries Gardens, offering classic funfair rides, treats like cotton candy and ice cream, plus a giant Ferris wheel for some of the city’s best views until August 24. It’s perfect for families or anyone wanting to relive a summer childhood dream.

Art and music lovers shouldn’t miss Classique au Vert at Parc Floral, where open-air classical concerts fill the weekends with enchanting sounds tucked in the middle of lush gardens. For something a bit punchier, the rooftop at Plantation Paris in the 18th arrondissement is hosting concerts, parties, and eco-friendly activities every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday through September—check out panoramic city views alongside food and drinks.

Open-air cinema is a quintessential Parisian summer experience. Parc de la Villette is showing films nightly outdoors through August 23. Bring a blanket, pick up some snacks, and enjoy films under the stars.

It’s a relaxed month in Paris as locals retreat to the countryside, so explore museums with fewer crowds, stroll quiet neighborhoods, or discover street art exhibitions popping up across the city. Shops and restaurants may be closed on the holiday, but the museums and many cultural venues remain open, inviting exploration and creativity.

From solemn traditions to rooftop parties and riverside relaxation, Paris this week is as inspiring as ever. Thanks for tuning in. Make sure to subscribe so you never miss a moment. This has been a quiet please production, for more check out quiet please dot ai.
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What to do in ParisBy Quiet. Please