The sun shines over the capital and a festive mood is sweeping the région parisienne. Classes closed their doors on Saturday, July 4, 2026 (Paris and Île-de-France in zone C) and, until the return to school on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, families are roaming to the four corners of the eight départements of Île-de-France. No doubt, the spirit of the grandes vacances has certainly taken hold of Parisians—one day, and for good.
The Summer in Paris invites us into a charming dolce vita vibe, and the city hums to the rhythm of numerous activities for young and old. You’re looking for the best plans to enjoy wonderful family outings and build lasting memories with your children. Luckily, the season is packed with events: from amusement parks and green strolls to playful exhibitions, kid-friendly festivals, and surprising concepts, there’s plenty to fill the summer holidays in Paris and Île-de-France.
To help you navigate, here’s the rundown of must-do family outings not to miss this summer in Paris. Here you’ll find the season’s essentials as well as plenty of ideas for enjoying wonderful holidays with the kids in the capital and the surrounding region. By the way, stay tuned: this guide is updated as new announcements come in and as we uncover new options, so be sure to check back regularly.
Summer 2026 holidays: Paris’s top 15 exhibitions to visit with the kids
When the holidays arrive, family-friendly exhibitions offer a welcome alternative to long days outdoors: you discover, you observe, sometimes you handle objects, and you share a cultural moment designed for children. [Read more]
Brunch for families in Paris: our top picks for young and old alike
Here are some great ideas for a family brunch that's sure to please young and old alike! [Read more]
Free pools and swimming spots in Paris and Île-de-France in 2026 — the summer’s best deals
As soon as the heat returns, we look for a pool (ideally with a beach area or sun loungers) or a waterside spot to swim! To feel like you’re on vacation without spending a dime, check out the best spots to bring your family and friends to Paris and Île-de-France, free of charge. [Read more]
Family-friendly terraces in Paris and Île-de-France, our top picks for dining with kids in 2026
Wondering where to spend quality time on a Paris terrace with your little ones? A lush green terrace, a community-run terrace, a bucolic retreat... Discover kid-friendly terraces to enjoy with your children. [Read more]
Outdoor cinema festivals in Paris: our Spring–Summer 2026 selection
Discover the outdoor film festivals in Paris and Île-de-France this spring and summer 2026: free or budget-friendly screenings, star-lit sessions, and cinephile gatherings you won’t want to miss. [Read more]
What to See in Paris: Museums to Explore in the Capital for an Artistic Summer 2026
Are you in Paris this summer of 2026? Lucky you: you’ll get to make the most of these sunny days by exploring the capital’s museums and soaking up the City of Light’s abundant cultural riches. Here are the spots to add to your list. [Read more]
Outdoor outings for kids in Paris: simple ideas to make the most of sunny days with the family
When the sun is back, Paris and the Île-de-France region offer plenty of ways to get out with the kids, without needing a grand expedition. A playground at the park, a bike ride, an easy hike, a picnic in a garden, a visit to a farm or fruit-and-vegetable picking: there’s no shortage of ideas to enjoy the outdoors with the family as soon as the weather is nice. [Read more]
Family outing: inflatable castles and slides, in Paris and the Île-de-France region
The sunny weather is here: head out to discover the inflatable play areas and other giant slides that kids especially love in the Paris region. [Read more]
Where to swim in Île-de-France this summer 2026? Swimming spots, beaches and water play areas
Craving a dip in the Paris region this summer? We’ve rounded up the must-visit spots to swim, the beaches, and the splash pads to discover all season long. [Read more]
Summer 2026: inflatable obstacle-course water parks to check out in Paris and the surrounding area
As the sunny days return and the summer holidays kick in, it's the perfect moment to take a dip and have fun at water parks with inflatable obstacle courses in Paris and the Île-de-France region. Pack your swimsuit and sunscreen: off for a refreshing outing! [Read more]
Water parks and aquatic centers to beat the heat this summer in Paris and Île-de-France
Ahhh summer, those sunny days... and those sweltering heat. When a heatwave hits or the weather turns unusually hot, we head to Paris and Île-de-France’s water centers and aquatic parks during the holidays. Here we go! [Read more]
Water play areas, paddling pools: where to cool off in Paris parks?
It's a sunny, hot day... let's hurry to cool off! If you think the capital isn't the right place for a break, you're mistaken—you just need to know where the wading pools and other water play areas are in Paris's parks. [Read more]
Recreational hubs: where to get active or unwind in Île-de-France in 2026
How about a leisure park around Paris? These sports and leisure parks, which also include artificial beaches, are the ideal solution for sunbathing, picnicking and swimming just like at the seaside, with fun activities to boot. Parisians, here's a pleasant and inexpensive way to take a vacation close to the capital! [Read more]
Amusement Parks and Funfairs in Paris and Surrounding Areas: 2026 Schedule and Information
Looking to enjoy some rides and indulge in new experiences and sensations? Whether with family or friends, amusement parks and fairs are classic outings that everyone loves, and there are several to explore in Paris and nearby. Check out their lineups for the 2026 season, packed with exciting new attractions that promise plenty of fun. [Read more]
Accrobranche in Île-de-France: the best tree courses to discover around Paris
It's that time of year again: accrobranches (tree climbing) courses are reopening their doors to the general public in Paris and the Île-de-France region, with adventures in the trees for all ages. [Read more]
A guide to zoos, aquariums and menageries in and around Paris
Want to get away from it all and meet animals in their natural environment? We visit the various zoos and menageries in and around Paris, and if you don't know where to go, don't panic! We've put together a great guide to help you make your choice. Vincennes, Thoiry, Jardin des Plantes... So many opportunities to discover more about nature. [Read more]
Trampoline Park: children's favorite all-day bouncing spots in the Paris region
The Trampoline Park is the ideal place to let off steam, whether you're an adult or a child, when you feel the need to burn off some energy! Head for the nearest spot to practice your somersaults in complete safety! [Read more]
Cafés and coffee shops for families in Paris: our top picks for places to go with children
Want to have a coffee in a place where children are not considered persona non grata? Head to the cafés and coffee shops in Paris where families are welcome! [Read more]
Restaurants with play areas and entertainment for children in Paris: our top picks
Discover restaurants where you can enjoy a peaceful meal with your children, who can enjoy entertainment and play areas. [Read more]
Indoor playgrounds and children's playgrounds in Paris and the Ile-de-France region
Are you looking for an indoor playground for your children aged 0 to 12 in the Paris region? There are many different types: inflatable structures for safe play, giant playgrounds for older children and even Montessori areas with motor skills courses for babies. Discover the list of playgrounds in the Paris region to keep your children entertained whatever the weather, whether cool in summer or warm in winter. [Read more]
Escape games for children and teenagers in Paris and the Ile-de-France region
Escape Games have been booming in Paris in recent years. Initially aimed primarily at adults, Paris is now seeing the emergence of a number of escape rooms suitable for children and families... That's why Sortiraparis has put together a selection of family escape games for you to discover in Paris and the suburbs. [Read more]
Fête de l'Île Saint-Denis : K-POP Demon Hunters on stage, dragon-boat racing and an educational farm
The Île-Saint-Denis Festival returns as a friendly gathering to kick off the summer in the town. Seen as a major community celebration, it brings residents together with a lineup of activities, performances, concerts, and events that are accessible to everyone. [Read more]
Summer Garden 2026: the free festival is back at the Quai Branly Museum.
Jardin d’été is back at the Musée du Quai Branly from July 4 to August 2, 2026, with free activities, workshops, storytelling, strolls, quizzes, and outdoor cinema. [Read more]
Free outdoor cinema at the Musée du Quai Branly: the 2026 lineup
Outdoor cinema returns for free at the Musée du Quai Branly from July 9 to August 2, 2026, with a program exploring the animal world, as part of Jardin d’été. [Read more]
Open Gardens 2026 in Île-de-France: this summer’s program
Open Gardens 2026 in Île-de-France returns, running June 27 to August 30, 2026, in more than 200 gardens across the Île-de-France region. On the program: concerts, performances, guided tours, workshops and art installations. [Read more]
Fête des Loges 2026: dates, schedule and attractions (Yvelines)
La Fête des Loges 2026 makes a triumphant return to the forest of Saint-Germain-en-Laye (Yvelines) for its 373rd edition, running from June 26 to August 16, 2026. With more than 200 attractions, a Gourmet Food Alley, and free admission, it’s all set to welcome visitors. [Read more]
Paris Tropical Carnival 2026: Date, Theme and Program
The Paris Tropical Carnival 2026 is gearing up to light up the Champs-Élysées this Sunday, July 5, 2026, with its theme “Paris V'Îles Lumières,” a celebration of the Overseas Territories and cultures from around the world. Nearly 3,000 carnival participants are expected, with free admission for spectators along the world’s most beautiful avenue. [Read more]
Saint-Ouen’s Summer 2026: free activities, open-air cinema and a Brazilian guinguette in Saint-Ouen
From Saturday, July 4 to Sunday, August 23, 2026, the city of Saint-Ouen-sur-Seine is staging Été Audonien, a major summer festival featuring free activities and special evenings, designed to make you feel like you’re on vacation without leaving the city. [Read more]
Wissous Beach 2026: water games and the summer lineup in Wissous (91)
During the summer holidays, head to Wissous in the Essonne department to enjoy water games and free activities on offer throughout the season. [Read more]
Houilles Beach 2026: The free summer program to swim all summer long
From July 11 to August 23, 2026, Houilles will transform into a seaside resort, offering free activities and swimming during the height of the summer holidays. This year’s theme centers on the Americas, a tribute to travel without even leaving Île-de-France. [Read more]
Swimming at Canal Saint-Martin opens for the summer.
Swimming opens free to the Récollets basin in Paris’ 10th arrondissement, starting this Wednesday, June 17, 2026. The city will permit supervised swims in the Canal Saint-Martin during every heatwave this summer. [Read more]
FIFA World Cup: giant screen and free activities at La Villette, the family-friendly fan zone
From June 13 to July 19, 2026, Parc de la Villette comes alive to the rhythm of the World Cup as it hosts a vast, free fan zone at the foot of the Géode. Screenings on giant displays, a five-a-side football pitch, and colorful brick-building workshops invite the whole family to ride the energy of the tournament. [Read more]
Clamart Beach 2026: water games, swimming and activities all summer long in Clamart
From July 18 to August 9, 2026, Clamart Beach reopens its doors, letting you feel like you’re on vacation without leaving Hauts-de-Seine. The lineup includes a pool, water games, and activities for everyone. [Read more]
Partir en livre 2026: dates and theme of this big, free celebration of children's books
The great celebration of children's literature is back from June 17 to July 19, 2026 for its 12th edition, themed "Our Small and Mighty Heroes." The Partir en Livre festival lineup includes: a writing and drawing contest, guided strolls, exhibitions, author encounters, and other surprises! [Read more]
Compans' free Medieval Festival 2026, featuring a market, performances and a fireworks display on the program.
The Compans Medieval Festival is back on July 11–12, 2026, in the Biberonne valley in Seine-et-Marne (77), for a free, immersive weekend at the heart of the Middle Ages, featuring performances, a market and activities for all. [Read more]
La Nuit des Fées : an immersive, magical evening stroll through the grounds of a château in Val d'Oise
From June 20 to November 1, 2026, the Château de Guiry-en-Vexin reopens its doors after dark for the 6th edition of La Nuit des Fées. Every Saturday, this immersive journey invites children and adults alike to a magical stroll, guided by an elficologist through a park in Val-d'Oise. [Read more]
Par has'Art! 2026: the free street arts festival in Seine-et-Marne is back
The Par has'Art! festival returns from June 26 to July 4, 2026 for its 8th edition across 12 towns in Seine-et-Marne. Fifteen free performances—circus, dance, street theatre and music—will bring public spaces to life. [Read more]
The Canal Summer 2026: the must-attend summer festival along Paris's canals, dates & program
Summer on the Canal is Paris's quintessential summer event. And great news: this Parisian summer staple is back from June 27 to August 9, 2026. This edition features free workshops, street art, open-air cinema, and strolls along the canals. [Read more]
Japan Expo: Dates Announced for the 2026 Edition at Paris-Nord Villepinte Exhibition Center
The Japan Expo, Europe's premier festival celebrating Japanese culture, is gearing up to wow visitors with a host of exciting features in summer 2026! Mark your calendars and join us at the Parc des Expositions in Villepinte from July 9 to 12, 2026. [Read more]
The Racecourse as a Family Destination: Free Weekend Activities for Kids Near the Horses
Going to the racetrack as a family? Absolutely! From April 5 to October 25, 2026, enjoy weekends filled with fun and entertainment for kids. They can experience pony rides, sack races, games, and learn about horses—all alongside thrilling horse races at various racetracks across Île-de-France. [Read more]
A grand historical reenactment at the Palace of Versailles celebrates American independence
The Palace of Versailles marks the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence. To celebrate, experience a grand historical reenactment on July 4th and 5th, 2026, at the Trianon Estate. [Read more]
Royal Serenade 2026 at the Palace of Versailles: an immersive journey into the Sun King's courtyard
The Royal Serenade is one of the highlights of summer in the Île-de-France region. This immersive experience transports visitors to the court of the Sun King, offering a glimpse into the leisure activities of the era. The Royal Chapel, the Hall of Mirrors, the Grand Apartments of the King and Queen, and even the Royal Court come alive with historical scenes featuring baroque dancers, sword fights, and theatrical sketches. Join us on Saturdays from June 6 to September 19, 2026, as well as on July 14 and August 15, 2026. [Read more]
The Nighttime Fountain Shows 2026 at the Palace of Versailles: Illuminated Fountains and Fireworks!
The Nighttime Fountain Shows will be back in 2026. This enchanting evening walk through the gardens of the Palace of Versailles offers the chance to admire illuminated fountains beautifully lit up, all set to a stunning fireworks display. The shows will take place on Saturday evenings from June 6th to September 19th, 2026. [Read more]
Pirates set to land in Aulnay-sous-Bois (93) this summer: family-friendly activities for the holidays.
During the summer holidays, head to Aulnay-sous-Bois! For the occasion, the town invites you to discover its Pirate Island—a free, summer program designed for fun, play, and getting active. [Read more]
The Children's Lyric Arenas: free classical music performances for the little ones.
From July 23 to August 7, 2026, the Arènes de Montmartre open their doors to young audiences for a special program. Welcome to the Children's Lyric Arenas, a festival that brings classical music to the youngest, entirely free. [Read more]
Clichy Plage 2026: the summer hotspot is back in Clichy-la-Garenne with water games
Throughout the entire month of July, from July 4 to July 31, 2026, Clichy-la-Garenne transforms into Clichy Plage, a summer hub for relaxing, family fun, and cooling off. [Read more]
A manga festival with free activities and voice-acting sessions at a shopping mall in Essonne
Attention manga fans: the Brétigny-sur-Orge shopping center is once again hosting its Manga Festival, featuring plenty of free activities, from August 29 to September 5, 2026! [Read more]
Clichy Beach 2026: Free activities and swimming for everyone in Clichy-sous-Bois (93)
From July 18 to August 9, 2026, Clichy Plage is back for a 2026 edition. What's on the program? A water-play platform, outdoor cinema and a host of free activities. [Read more]
Beach Mesnil: a free beach and aquatic activities in Blanc-Mesnil (93) this summer
Each summer, Beach Mesnil transforms a park in Blanc-Mesnil into an urban beach, complete with a pool, water-play zones, activities and relaxing areas so families can enjoy summer fun without leaving the city. [Read more]
The Ecancourt educational farm in Jouy-le-Moutier, for a walk to discover the animals.
Near Jouy-le-Moutier, the Ecancourt farm welcomes families all week long to discover its residents and the world of farming at the same time. [Read more]
Cocorico, the free educational farm in Herblay-sur-Seine (95)
In Herblay-sur-Seine, don't miss Cocorico, the town's educational farm: free and open to all, it's a great opportunity for a family outing to the farm. [Read more]
Good deals for ages 13-25: Studio 13/16 opens its doors at La Gaîté Lyrique.
Iconic of the Centre Pompidou, Studio 13/16, the teens' HQ, opens a second venue to gather and create, at La Gaîté Lyrique. [Read more]
A free biodiversity museum featuring large aquariums in Puteaux (92)
On Île de Puteaux in the Hauts-de-Seine, inside Lebaudy Park, you’ll find the Naturoscope — a venue devoted to the environment that aims to raise awareness for both children and adults through exhibitions and educational activities. [Read more]
Houses of the First 1,000 Days: Two Free Destinations in Paris for Young Parents and Families
To support new parents during their child's first days, Paris has opened its first 'Houses of the 1000 Days,' offering free welcome spaces in the 18th and 20th districts. [Read more]
Le square de la Jungle: a playground that makes you feel like you're in the heart of the savannah, in Puteaux (92).
Enter the heart of the jungle, without even leaving the outskirts of Paris: head for the magnificent Square de la Jungle and its children's playground in Puteaux, for a family break all year round! [Read more]
Good plan for families: free creative workshops every Sunday at Fluctuart
It's the place to be for families and, above all, for children: every Sunday, Fluctuart offers workshops for kids, to introduce them to urban art. [Read more]
The Boom Boom Villette kids club: free entertainment for children every Saturday and Sunday
Every Saturday and Sunday, from 12pm to 4pm, Boom Boom Villette, the brand-new foodcourt in the 19th arrondissement, offers free entertainment for children in its kid-friendly area. [Read more]
Le Jardin du Dragon: the must-see children's playground at Parc de la Villette
The Parc de la Villette is one of the capital's largest parks: combining sport, large lawns and ruby-red infrastructures, the park is the playground of families and children, who have a blast in the outdoor play areas. [Read more]
Reopening of the Bourdelle Museum: the current workshops for children
It's all new and beautiful: the Bourdelle Museum has just reopened its doors on March 15, 2023, after nearly two years of work. What if we went to discover it with the children around a playful and creative workshop? [Read more]
If, with all this, you still don't know where to go out this summer with the kids, it's because you haven't looked closely—have another look! Have a great summer holidays in Paris!
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