The month of May in Parisbrings a host of new things to the fore. Spring is in full swing, the days are getting longer, the parks are in bloom and the atmosphere is inviting. For the French, it's also the month of the bridges, with its public holidays providing an excuse to make the most of the capital's pleasures. With open-air events, outdoor outings and the pleasure of first picnics by the Seine and sunny terraces, Paris vibrates with a very special energy in May.
This is your chance to discover the new ideas for going out in Paris this May 2026. New exhibitions, new addresses, the return ofmust-see events, and much more, it's the perfect time for the curious and discovery-lovers to get in on the action and experience the trends before anyone else.
If you're one of those enthusiasts who's always in the starting-blocks to be the first to discover the new concepts that are rocking the capital, here's a guide to help you in your quest! This selection highlights events and addresses starting in May 2026 or taking place only as one-shots.
And because Paris is constantly on the move, this selection will be updated in real time, to include new developments as soon as they are announced. Don't miss your chance to be at the heart of the Parisian avant-garde!
Jardins, Jardin 2026 at the Villa Windsor Park in Boulogne, Paris — what’s coming up?
For its 20th edition, the Jardin, Jardin festival is returning to the Villa Windsor Park in the Bois de Boulogne, Paris 16th, from May 28 to 31, 2026. This year’s event will focus on biodiversity and collaborative action. Here’s everything you need to know. [Read more]
DroneArt Show: A spectacular display of illuminated drones synchronized with classical music at this racecourse
The sky over Bois de Vincennes transforms into a giant stage on May 28 and 30, 2026: hundreds of drones will perform a mesmerizing dance above the Hippodrome, all synchronized with a live classical music concert. An immersive sensory experience blending cutting-edge technology with poetic artistry. [Read more]
Marvellous Island Festival 2026 in Torcy: The Full Daily Lineup
The Marvellous Island Festival is making its comeback and invites you to join the celebration on Saturday, May 23, and Sunday, May 24, 2026, at Vaires-Torcy Beach for its 14th edition. What’s on the lineup? Basswell, Dennis Cruz, Nic Fanciulli, Perceval, Bad Boombox, Ilario Alicante, Mandragora, and Mischluft, among others. Check out the full schedule for each day! [Read more]
A charming medieval festival awaits in Seine-et-Marne, featuring tournaments and a handcrafted market.
Moussy-le-Neuf in Seine-et-Marne gears up for its 13th Medieval Festival on May 23 and 24, 2026. The event promises a stunning historical camp, a chivalry tournament, craft market stalls, and lively entertainment—perfect for families eager to step back into the Middle Ages. [Read more]
Candlelit evenings at Vaux-le-Vicomte Castle 2026: a magical stroll culminating in a spectacular fireworks display
The candlelit evenings at Vaux-le-Vicomte Castle offer a truly enchanting experience to enjoy with loved ones. On the agenda: an evening tour illuminated by 2,000 candles, water displays, a romantic stroll through the gardens accompanied by baroque music, and even a spectacular fireworks display! An exceptional event to be savored from May 16 to September 26, 2026. [Read more]
A medieval marathon from the castle of Blandy-les-Tours to the ramparts of Provins (77)
On Sunday, May 10, 2026, run the all-new Seine-et-Marne Medieval Marathon, between Blandy-lès-Tours and Provins, for nearly 42 kilometers through villages straight out of the Middle Ages! [Read more]
Cultural events starting in May 2026
Exhibitions opening in May 2026: what's new this month
Get your fill of new things in May 2026, with these exhibitions opening their doors in museums across Paris and the Île-de-France region. It's all new and beautiful, and all that's missing is you! [Read more]
The 2026 Bread Festival: the giant pop-up bakery on the Notre-Dame forecourt in Paris
The Bakery Festival is making a return to Paris from May 8 to 17, 2026, on the forecourt of Notre-Dame Cathedral. What’s in store? Recreated bakeries, a host of talented artisan bakers, competitions, and of course, plenty of tastings! [Read more]
La Maisonnaise 2026: Half-Marathon, 10K, and Costume Run in Maisons-Alfort (94)
On Sunday, May 24, 2026, the town of Maisons-Alfort comes alive with the spirit of La Maisonnaise. This neighborhood sporting event offers three race options suitable for all fitness levels: a half marathon, a 10K, and a fun family costume run along the banks of the Marne. [Read more]
Canidays: the giant festival celebrating dogs and their owners, set amidst the great outdoors in the Yvelines
The Val de Seine Leisure Island is set to host the Canidays from May 29 to 31, 2026, a festival dedicated to dogs. Featuring agility workshops, dog-paddle sessions, expert talks, and scenic nature walks, this fun-filled event in the Yvelines promises an unforgettable weekend of adventures for dogs and their owners! [Read more]
The Gardens Festival of Soisy-sur-Seine in Essonne, 2026
The 16th Soisy-sur-Seine Gardens Festival is returning to Grand Veneur Park on May 9 and 10, 2026. Visitors can enjoy a variety of plant exhibits, artisan stalls, plant swaps, and free activities—all part of this celebration of nature in Essonne. The event is open to everyone and free of charge. [Read more]
Plant Festival at Cugny La Genevraye in Seine-et-Marne 2026
The 19th edition of the Cugny Plant Festival will take place on May 14, 2026, in the picturesque hamlet of La Genevraye, in Seine-et-Marne. The event will feature around sixty vendors, a raffle, and free admission. [Read more]
Crèvecœur-En-Brie Plant Fair 2026 (77)
The Crèvecœur-en-Brie Plant Fair is making its return on Friday, May 8, 2026, at Place Saint-Jean in Seine-et-Marne (77). Hosted by the Crèvecœur-Arevi association, this year's event will feature a wide selection of vegetable plants, flowers, and shrubs, with food vendors available on-site. Entrance is free. [Read more]
Scenes along the Seine 2026 in Sartrouville: a free festival featuring concerts and performances by the river
The quays of Sartrouville are set to steal the spotlight once again with Scènes en Seine, the lively event that combines celebration, culture, and the great outdoors on Sunday, May 24, 2026. With concerts, performances, and a variety of entertainment, the town invites you to enjoy an car-free afternoon full of surprises! [Read more]
10km for UNICEF 2026: A charity run advocating for children's rights in the Bois de Boulogne
On Sunday, May 10, 2026, join us in a heartfelt race to fight childhood malnutrition, alongside UNICEF. Choose your challenge: a 10-kilometer or 5-kilometer course through the beautiful Bois de Boulogne, all to support a vital cause. [Read more]
Roland Garros 2026: Ticket sales dates for Opening Week and the qualifiers
Roland-Garros returns on May 18, 2026! With affordable prices accessible to everyone, you’ll have the opportunity to attend the qualifying rounds featuring male and female tennis players during the Opening Week. [Read more]
Lions Paris 9 Run: A 10K Race and Charitable Runs in the 9th District
On Sunday, May 31, 2026, Lions Paris 9 Run will turn the 9th arrondissement into a community-focused playground, offering three different routes suitable for all fitness levels. From a family-friendly loop to the challenging 10 km race, every step taken will help support children with disabilities. [Read more]
The 2026 Loop: Pick your distance from 5 to 60 km and take part in a race at the Enghien Racecourse
Looking for a race without pressure or timers? On May 30, 2026, the Enghien-Soisy Racecourse will host a lively and festive event where everyone runs at their own pace, whether it's 5 or 60 kilometers! [Read more]
Bièvre Walk 2026: a scenic hike ranging from 10 to 52 kilometers through the valley
Hikers, get your sneakers ready! The Bièvre Walk is making a comeback through the valley with four routes ranging from 10 to 52 kilometers, available day and night, on May 24, 2026. It’s a lively and energetic outdoor adventure perfect for nature enthusiasts. [Read more]
Grand Siècle Rendezvous 2026: Costumed Event and Fireworks at Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte
The Vaux-le-Vicomte Castle offers a magical escape, transporting visitors back to the 17th century: the Grand Siècle Festival is set for Saturday, May 23, 2026. For one day only, costume enthusiasts and history buffs are invited to immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere of the era within this stunning estate. [Read more]
Breteuil 1900: A Living History Reenactment at the Heart of the Belle Époque at Breteuil Castle
The Château de Breteuil invites you to an extraordinary event on May 8, 2026: a historical reenactment set in the heart of the Belle Epoque. Step back into the era of Henri de Breteuil and experience the estate at its peak! [Read more]
Clarins Trophy 2026: the International Women's Tennis Tournament at Lagardère Paris Racing
From May 11 to 17, 2026, the French capital will host a major international women's tennis tournament right in the heart of the Bois de Boulogne: the Clarins Trophy. The event will also feature an exhibition match and a cross-country race! [Read more]
Handball: Paris Saint-Germain vs. Nantes — An Unmissable Championship Clash at the Accor Arena
On Wednesday, May 27, 2026, Paris Saint-Germain Handball will step away from their usual home at the Coubertin Stadium to take over the massive Accor Arena for a marquee clash against Nantes, as part of the 28th round of the season. [Read more]
The Colorful Run 2026: A Festive Race with Color Throws and No Timing in Val-d'Oise
Join the Colorful Strides 2026 in Mériel, Val-d’Oise: a fun, inclusive race for all ages, with no timers and a 2 to 3 km course. Expect bursts of color, lively entertainment at the finish, and participation just €10 for an evening of sport and good vibes. [Read more]
Roland-Garros 2025: charity matches and sporting events for Yannick Noah Day
Roland-Garros Children's Day, renamed Yannick Noah Day, is an opportunity to bring children to the legendary Parisian tennis stadium for sporting events and charity matches on Saturday, May 24, 2025. [Read more]
Les Journées Marteau 2025: get your valuables appraised free of charge
The Journées Marteau are back from May 19 to 25, 2025, and invite you to come and discover auction house bidding and all the facets of the auctioneer's profession. Take advantage of the opportunity to have your valuables appraised free of charge! [Read more]
Fantastique Fair and Japan Party 2026: A three-day celebration of Japanese pop culture and fantasy at the Parc Floral
The Salon Fantastique and the Japan Party combine their festivities from May 23 to 25, 2026, at Parc Floral in Paris. Bringing together the realms of fantasy and Japanese culture, they promise a weekend of timeless discoveries! [Read more]
The Orgeval Flower Show 2026: A Celebration of Plants in the Yvelines
The Floralies of Orgeval, hosted by the Lions Club, are set to return on May 23 and 24, 2026, at the Brunetterie Park in Yvelines for their 11th edition, blending vibrant displays of plants and flowers with a spirit of community solidarity. [Read more]
Once Upon a Crime in Paris: the immersive show where you become the detective and rewrite the ending of the fairy tale
In Paris, at the Théâtre de l’Alliance Française, the immersive show Once Upon a Crime offers a one-hour interactive criminal investigation centered on Little Red Riding Hood. Audience members, all grown-up, get to vote and steer both the story's progression and its ending. This interactive theatre experience in Paris immerses viewers in a film noir atmosphere and provides a participatory adventure with multiple possible outcomes. [Read more]
Swami: A Show Blending Magic, Mentalism, and Virtual Reality at Little Villette
Attention magic enthusiasts! Little Villette invites you to experience Swarmi, an immersive adventure created by Rémy Berthier that combines magic, mentalism, and virtual reality, running from May 12 to May 16, 2026. [Read more]
Augmented Magic: Moulla’s Magical Show at La Grande Halle de La Villette
The Grande Halle of La Villette hosts an innovative magic conference and show centered on AI, titled Augmented Magic, presented by magician Moulla, from May 19 to May 23, 2026. Step into a truly immersive experience where illusions meet cutting-edge technology to amaze and astonish! [Read more]
FauxFaire FauxVoir: a magical, immersive, and interactive experience at La Grande Halle de La Villette
The Grande Halle of La Villette invites you to experience "FauxFaire FauxVoir," a captivating magic show blending cognitive science and technology, created by the Le Phalène company. Scheduled from May 5 to 9, 2026, this immersive journey challenges our perceptions and beliefs, offering a unique theatrical exploration. [Read more]
The Imaginary Invalid: Molière’s Comedy-Ballet at the Porte Saint-Martin
Molière’s The Imaginary Invalid, directed by Claude Stratz, will run at the Théâtre de la Porte Saint-Martin from May 27 to July 12, 2026. [Read more]
Molière’s Tartuffe or the Hypocrite performed in its original version at La Grande Halle de la Villette
Tartuffe or The Hypocrite by Molière, directed by Ivo Van Hove, will be staged at La Grande Halle de la Villette from May 21 to July 11, 2026. [Read more]
Good News: D’pendanse musical hits the stage at the Dôme in Paris
Good News is a musical comedy brought to life by the D’pendanse company, blending dance, singing, and theater. It will be staged at the Paris Dôme on May 29, 2026. [Read more]
Scenes from a marriage at the Odéon: a couple confronts violence
From May 20 to June 7, 2026 at Odéon Paris 6, Markus Öhrn revisits Bergman's Scenes from a Marriage in a radically offbeat version. [Read more]
La Dame aux camélias: a romantic tragedy danced at the Palais Garnier
From May 5 to 23, 2026, the Palais Garnier presents La Dame aux camélias, a narrative ballet by John Neumeier inspired by the novel by Alexandre Dumas fils, with music by Chopin. [Read more]
Ercole amante: Antonia Bembo's baroque Hercules between power and desire at Opéra Bastille
From May 28 to June 14, 2026, Antonia Bembo's Ercole amante makes its debut in the Paris Opéra repertoire, supported by an original staging and singular Baroque vocal writing. [Read more]
Maldonne: Leïla Ka celebrates women's solidarity at Théâtre du Rond-Point
From May 11 to 13, 2026, Leïla Ka presents "Maldonne" at the Théâtre du Rond-Point, a choreographic piece for five dancers about sisterhood. [Read more]
Titoff at the Olympia: a return to the stage expected in 2026
Comedian Titoff will be back on stage at Olympia on May 5, 2026 at 8pm for a one-off show, with tickets available from 35 to 65 euros. Tickets officially open on Tuesday, June 24, 2025 at 12 noon! [Read more]
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