Bonjour and welcome to “Things to do in Paris” for today, Thursday, July 17, 2025! The City of Light is buzzing with summer energy as we head into the midpoint of July. The skies are mostly clear and warm, making it perfect for exploring the city’s iconic boulevards or lounging in one of Paris’s leafy parks. Air quality is good, and a gentle breeze has everyone out and about. There’s excitement in the air, with the city still glowing from recent Bastille Day celebrations and gearing up for a season packed with events and festivals.

Here’s a quick roundup of today’s standout happenings across Paris:

- For music lovers, the Paris l’été Festival is in full swing. Spanning several venues, this multidisciplinary extravaganza offers theater, dance, and concerts—catch the latest performances tonight and soak in the city’s vibrant cultural pulse[4].
- At the Bobino Theatre, “Once Again Aznavour” continues—a captivating dance and music production that brings the legendary singer’s life and hits to the stage, running through July 20[4].
- If you’re keen on family activities, Citéco, Paris’s economics museum, is offering free entry every weekend this summer. Dive into fun, interactive exhibits and workshops that make learning a blast for all ages[3].
- Looking for unique nightlife? Grand Palais continues its “Grand Palais d’été” series this evening, with the Nave transformed into a pulsating stage for exhibitions and electronic DJ sets. Dance beneath the monumental glass dome and mingle with Paris’s coolest locals[3].
- On a community note, “Good Trouble Lives On,” a day of peaceful action and dialogue, is happening tonight at Hotel Léonor and Place du Capitole, uniting locals and international visitors around causes that matter[7].

In city news, be aware that a rail strike affecting the Paris Nord area is still ongoing. It’s mostly impacting freight and long-distance trains, but travelers using suburban routes near Villemomble or Le Bourget should keep an eye out for possible delays[5]. The city is actively working to minimize disruptions, but if you’re heading out of Paris by rail, check schedules in advance.

On the food and social front, keep an eye out for new restaurants springing up on both banks. Paris’s summer pop-up scene is thriving; check for updated listings on local billboards for the latest bistros opening this week, especially in the Marais and Canal Saint-Martin districts, where hidden garden patios are the talk of the town.

No trip to Paris is complete without a classic stroll along the Seine or a photo beneath the sparkling Eiffel Tower. For something different, visit the Carnavalet Museum—this lesser-known gem in the Marais delves into Paris’s rich history in a wonderfully intimate setting[9]. Seeking fresh air? Explore the Château de Vincennes, a medieval fortress just a short metro ride away, for an atmospheric afternoon far from the crowds[9].

Local tip: When ordering coffee at a terrace, don’t just ask for a “café”—try a noisette (an espresso with a splash of milk) and order “en terrasse” for the best people-watching. And never rush—a true Parisian coffee break is meant to be savored as much as the flavor itself.

Before we go, mark your calendars for this weekend’s Tour de Paris Bicycle Rally, kicking off July 19, bringing together thousands of cyclists for a festive city roll[8]. For more hidden gems and tomorrow’s hottest events—including the magical Night Fountains Show at Versailles—be sure to tune in to “Things to do in Paris.” Bon voyage et à demain!

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