Welcome to "Things to do in Paris" for Friday, July 4, 2025! Whether you’re already basking in the Parisian summer or dreaming of your next adventure in the City of Light, here’s your essential update.

Today, Paris is alive with a holiday weekend buzz. The weather is balmy, perfect for enjoying the city’s famed terraces and outdoor events. However, travelers should be aware that a major air traffic controller strike is disrupting flights, with about 40% of Paris flights canceled and long delays expected at all airports[6]. If you’re flying, double-check your itinerary.

Let’s dive into some of the top events happening around town:

- Paris Plages kicks off its 24th summer season tomorrow, transforming riversides and urban spaces into pop-up beaches. This year, look for Brazilian samba, tropical décor, and a relaxed beach vibe, with free swimming areas and open-air fun[5].
- L’Été du Canal begins, offering workshops, floating concerts, outdoor cinema, and street art along the city’s scenic canals—a must for art lovers and families alike[5].
- Tonight, Jardin d’été, the vibrant free festival at the Musée du Quai Branly, launches its Japanese-themed summer programming with world cuisines and cultural workshops, running all summer[9].
- For music fans, Imagine Dragons play at Stade de France this weekend, drawing crowds for two nights of stadium-scale hits[9].
- Night owls can catch the dazzling AURA INVALIDES sound-and-light show at the Dôme des Invalides tonight—a mesmerizing experience for all ages[9].

For culture hunters, the grand reopening of the Notre-Dame Cathedral is a highlight: after five years of restoration, the iconic site welcomes visitors once again in all its splendor[1]. The futuristic Géode projection room in Parc de la Villette, famous for its mirrored sphere and immersive screenings, is also open and drawing cinema lovers[1].

Local news and city updates: The ongoing air traffic strike overshadows transit this weekend, but within Paris itself, streets are lively and safe. Sunday will see a pedestrianized Champs-Élysées for the Carnaval Tropical—plan for vibrant parades and car-free strolls[5]. On Saturday, the Bourse de Commerce offers free nighttime museum access—perfect for an art-filled evening[9].

For dining, explore new and classic terraces like the Cheval Blanc rooftop for stunning city views, or try a serene coffee at the Collège des Bernardins, a hidden gem in a 13th-century monastery[1][7]. Families will adore the leafy, tucked-away La Fantaisie garden for a quiet urban retreat[7].

Today’s must-dos:
- Wander through Paris Plages as it gets set up, then snag seats at the Cheval Blanc rooftop for sunset.
- Dive into Jardin d’été festivities or take in contemporary art at the Bourse de Commerce’s free nocturne.
- Experience the magic of AURA INVALIDES or join the citywide samba spirit as Brazil-France Season celebrations heat up.

Local tip: When in Paris, always check for pedestrian zones on weekends—adventurous walkers will be rewarded with quiet streets and unexpected sights, especially during special events like Paris Respire days[5].

Don’t forget, tomorrow ramps up with even more summer energy: the Carnaval Tropical parade, full Paris Plages action, and Imagine Dragons lighting up Stade de France. Tune in tomorrow for the freshest picks—bonne journée et à bientôt!

This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI