Sigh…. It is the time of the la rentrée, or the return from vacation for most Parisians and we all know what that means… summer is almost finish. But that’s no reason to cry! With everyone back in town again, and the hustle and bustle about, there are plenty of things to do and see!
Event: “Musical Fountains” at the Chateau de Versailles
Details: Enjoy the last month of sun and warmth surrounded by the gorgeous gardens of Versailles. During the month of September their will be a magnificent light and water fountain show all set to beautiful classical musical. It’s the perfect place to relax if you’re just not quite ready to admit summer has ended.
When: Every weekend through October 28th. For times and prices, please visitwww.chateauversailles-spectacles.fr.
Where: Chateau de Versailles
Event: Festival de l’Automne
Details: The Festival de l’Automne, or Autumn Festival is a festival dedicated to all forms of contemporary visual arts. The popular event features over 40 different events, all original works, and attracts over 100,000 people every year.
When: September 3rd through December 15th. For program details and other information, please visit www.festival-automne.com.
Where: There are multiple venues through the duration of the festival. Please consult the festival’s website for details.
Event: Journees du Patrimoine
Details: Journees du Patrimoine, or the European Heritage Days, are a good time to explore the city’s most important monuments, government buildings, city halls and others fascinating locations. For two whole days their doors will be open to the public. You won’t want to miss this behind-the-scenes look at some of the city’s most intriguing places. This year’s theme is “Hidden Heritage.”
When: September 15th and 16th
Where: Various locations throughout Paris. For more information, please visitwww.journeesdupatrimoine.culture.fr.
Event: C’etaient des enfants
Details: The Hôtel de Ville is presenting an exhibition titled C’Etaient des Enfants, or “They Were Children.” It is an attempt to tell the story over 10,000 children who were deported from France by the Nazis or died in one of the French internment camps during WWII. Fewer than 200 were ever to return. The exhibition shows the darker days of the city’s history and will feature never before seen documents to ensure that these children will never be forgotten.
When: September through October 27th
Where: Hotel de Ville – 29 rue de Rivoli, Metro – Hotel de Ville or Chatelet
Event: Shakespeare’s Garden Theater Festival
Details: Take in some culture this month and enjoy some outdoor theater at the Jardin Shakespeare in the beautiful and lush
Boulogne Woods, another great location for fresh air and maybe even a romantic picnic. Every year, the theatre holds a slew of plays, dances, and amazing musical performances. Tickets can be bought at the theatre, but only by cash or check.
When: Throughout August. For more information, please visitwww.jardinshakespeare.fr.
Where: Bois de Boulogne Park – 102 route de Suresnes, Bois de Boulogne.
Event: Fête de la gastronomie
Details: Hope you’re hungry because the annual Fête de la gastronomie, or Festival of Gastronomy is on its way. All you foodies out there will be happy to know that some of the city’s top restaurants have already signed up and more are doing so every day. How can you pass up a 2-for-1 deal in the city that has been known for its food for who knows how long!?
When: September 17th through 23rd
Where: Throughout France. For restaurant locations, please visit www.tousaurestaurant.com