August in Paris is the time to discover a seemingly quieter capital, but one that never takes a break from programming. Summer festivities are always in full swing, while the City of Light sometimes takes on the allure of a seaside resort. With its sunny days and lively evenings, the Paris region offers a range of experiences to delight everyone.
This month is marked by the Fête de l'Assomption on August 15, a day when Paris slows down a little, but the atmosphere remains convivial thanks to local festivities and summer traditions. The mood is light, with Parisians and visitors alternating between sunny terraces, strolls along the Seine and cultural discoveries.
But in Paris, there's no question of resting on your laurels! This is also your last chance to discover the season's successes before they bow out: an exhibition that's closing its doors, a summer festival that's coming to an end, or a show that won't be back until next year... if ever.
And to give you even greater visibility, this selection is updated in real time, and past events are deleted as they happen!



The Esport World Cup takes over the Champs-Élysées for a free festival!
L'Esports Festival by Esports World Cup invades the Champs-Élysées on Sunday, August 2, 2026, for a free outdoor festival. Live competitions, professional players and guests will set up along the world’s most beautiful avenue, with no tickets or reservations required. [Read more]



Rock en Seine 2026: the full lineup by day and the concert times
Rock en Seine announces its return to the Domaine national de Saint-Cloud! In 2026, the Île-de-France festival once again invites you to five days of concerts and festivities from Wednesday, August 26 to Sunday, August 30. On the bill? The Cure, Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds, and Tyler, The Creator, along with Deftones, Turnstile, Franz Ferdinand, Sparks, Kompromat, Clipse, Mogwai, Wolf Alice, Peaches, and Lykke Li. Discover the full day-by-day lineup and the concert times! [Read more]



European Swimming Championships 2026 in Paris: dates, schedule, and information about the competition
In April 2023, France put forward its bid to host the European Swimming Championships in 2026. From July 31 to August 16, the Olympic Aquatic Centre will welcome fans to cheer on our swimmers. Here is everything you need to know about the competition and the events! [Read more]



A free fireworks display in Saint-Ouen (93) this August to celebrate the end of summer.
It's the end of the holidays, yes, but certainly not the end of the festivities. After a summer packed with activities and events, we take stock of this summer season in Saint-Ouen-sur-Seine, where the town is hosting a grand fireworks display before the new school year begins. [Read more]



Free evening opening at the Bourse de Commerce: reserve now for Saturday, August 1, 2026.
Want to visit the collections at the Bourse de Commerce? Take advantage of the free after-hours opening, held on the first Saturday of every month, to discover this must-see art venue in Paris. Next date to mark in your calendar: Saturday, August 1, 2026. [Read more]



Outdoor cinema at the Château d'Écouen: the National Museum of the Renaissance unveils its 2026 program
Each summer, the Château d'Écouen — National Museum of the Renaissance offers warm, family-friendly evenings focused on cinema, with its outdoor screenings. Discover the free films shown on August 21 and 22, 2026. [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]



The Lights of Time 2026: Provins illuminated by candlelight for two evenings
The Lueurs du Temps lights up the medieval town of Provins (Seine-et-Marne) with thousands of candles, for two free evenings on July 4 and August 1, 2026, featuring fire performances and torch-lit strolls. [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]



Parc Astérix Summer 2026: new drone-and-fire show, Egypt-themed zone and water attractions
Parc Astérix reveals for summer 2026 an unprecedented nighttime show blending drones, water jets, projections and fireworks, to be unveiled from July 11, a completely redesigned Egypt zone, and water-based attractions designed to withstand the heat, running until August 30, 2026. [Read more]



La Villette Open-Air Cinema 2026: The full, free lineup announced
La Villette's open-air cinema returns from July 22 to August 16, 2026, on the Prairie du Triangle, offering two free screenings per day at 6:00 PM and 9:00 PM. For its 35th edition, the festival spotlights the theme "The Call of the Forest." Discover the full, free lineup! [Read more]



The Night Slots 2026: Free outdoor cinema program at Blandy Castle
Outdoor cinema returns to Château de Blandy-Les-Tours for three magical evenings on August 12, 19 and 26, 2026. The lineup features family-friendly, crowd-pleasing films shown on the ramparts of this medieval fortress, delivering a unique and free experience. Here’s more on this must-see plan! [Read more]



Stars of Paris: outdoor cinema makes a comeback in front of the Eiffel Tower
The Vedettes de Paris open-air cinema is back from August 26 to 30, 2026 at Port de Suffren, opposite the Eiffel Tower, with public voting, online ticketing, and screenings on the quay. [Read more]



Back to Hogwarts: more details on the free event at the Château de Versailles and its registration date
Celebrate “Back to Hogwarts”—the marquee annual gathering that brings Harry Potter fans together. For this highly anticipated edition, set for August 29, 2026, an iconic château lends itself to the occasion: by day, in the Orangery of the Palace of Versailles, Potterheads will converge for a free event that requires registration. [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]



Exceptional solar eclipse visible in France: the must-see date of 2026
An exceptional solar eclipse will take place in France on August 12, 2026, with 99.5% occultation in Biarritz. This rare astronomical phenomenon will offer a near-total spectacle in south-west France, 27 years after the last total eclipse visible in Europe. [Read more]



Don't miss the Perseids, the most beautiful shooting star shower of the year!
Throughout August, and especially around August 12, 2026, the famous Perseid shower of shooting stars will be visible in the French sky, as it is every year. Let's look up and admire the show! [Read more]



Last days: these exhibitions close in August 2026 in Paris and Île-de-France
Heads up, it’s almost over! Here are the exhibitions that wrap up in August 2026 in Paris and Île-de-France. Seize the moment before it slips away! We’re taking a look at what’s about to disappear from the calendar. [Read more]



The Champions Burger: Europe’s biggest burger championship near Paris
Sponsored - The Champions Burger returns to Val d'Europe Shopping Center from July 9 to August 2, 2026, with 15 European brands showcasing their gourmet burgers. An immersive street-food experience themed California Dreaming, pairing inventive recipes, premium ingredients, and an ambiance inspired by the American West Coast. [Read more]



The Champions Burger 2026, 15 food trucks offering XXL gourmet burgers in Val d'Europe
Burger enthusiasts, you’re in for a treat with The Champions Burger 2026, a festival featuring 15 food trucks offering XXL gourmet burgers, taking place in Val d’Europe from July 9 to August 2, 2026. [Read more]



Outdoor Pilates class and Italian aperitivo on the terrace of a hotel in the 8th arrondissement
Pilates on a hidden terrace and Italian aperitivo: discover Maison Delano's Sunday ritual! Until August 30, 2026, the hotel in the 8th arrondissement is offering a summer experience that blends outdoor fitness sessions with shared gourmet plates. [Read more]



European Swimming Championships 2026: schedule and timings for open-water events
From August 4 to 8, 2026, open-water swimming will take over the Seine for the European Championships in Paris. Across the 5km, 10km, and the mixed relay, the world’s top aquatic marathoners will clash in a legendary natural setting. [Read more]



European Swimming Championships: schedule & times for the diving and high-diving events
From July 31 to August 8, 2026, traditional diving and the spectacular high diving will take center stage at the European Swimming Championships. Between the Olympic pool in Saint-Denis and the natural setting along the Seine, the continent’s top divers will take to the boards for jaw‑dropping acrobatic feats. [Read more]



2026 European Swimming Championships: schedule and timings for the artistic swimming events
From July 31 to August 5, 2026, artistic swimming takes over the Olympic Aquatic Centre to launch the European Championships. Between spectacular acrobatic ballets, spellbinding solos, and razor-sharp duets, discover the lineup of this discipline where sport becomes true art. [Read more]



European Swimming Championships 2026: schedule & timings of the pool swimming events
From August 10 to 16, 2026, the Olympic Aquatic Centre will hum with the rhythm of competitive swimming as the European Championships enter their second week in Paris. Discover what awaits during this decisive week with the full schedule! [Read more]



European Swimming Championships 2026: a free fan zone with activities in Saint-Denis
From July 31 to August 16, 2026, the Olympic Aquatic Centre will host the European Swimming Championships. To extend the celebration beyond the pools, a free fan zone will be set up on site, offering playful activities, autograph sessions, food trucks and a relaxation area. [Read more]



European Swimming Championships 2026 in Paris: how to watch certain events for free?
The 2026 European Swimming Championships will be held in Paris, featuring two events staged in the capital’s river that will be more accessible to the public than ever. How can you watch the open-water competitions and the high-diving in August next year? [Read more]



2026 European Swimming Championships in Paris: which channel will broadcast the competition?
The European Swimming Championships celebrate their centenary in Paris from July 31 to August 16, 2026! After the success of the Olympic Games, the Olympic Aquatic Center and the Seine are set to pulse to the rhythm of five spectacular disciplines. Broadcasters and star analysts, a how-to guide for watching it on TV! [Read more]



Aquathlon Paris 2026: the swim-and-run race returns to Paris in August - registrations open
L'Aquathlon Paris dives back in for a second edition on Sunday, August 30, 2026, at the Bassin de la Villette.
The program features three formats that blend open-water swimming and running, open to various levels of experience. [Read more]



NBA Summer House: free activities and meet-and-greets around basketball at the Palais Brongniart
The NBA lands in Paris earlier than expected! While awaiting the official 2027 game, a temporary and free experience is taking over at the Palais Brongniart for the weekend of August 1–2, 2026. [Read more]



Harvest Festival 2026 in Provins: parade of floats, dances and traditional activities for the whole family.
The Harvest Festival returns to Provins this Sunday, August 23, 2026. A one-of-a-kind event in France, it unfolds inside the old town walls and unveils a rural program of activities for both kids and adults. [Read more]



Stargazing Nights 2026 in Saint-Ouen (93): observing the sky over Seine-Saint-Denis
And what if you headed to Saint-Ouen-sur-Seine on August 6, 2026 for an evening under the stars? To mark the Nights of the Stars, marvel at the night sky and learn more about the constellations that surround us! [Read more]



Stargazing Night 2026 in Essarts-le-Roi (78): skywatching in Yvelines
Attention astronomy enthusiasts: the Nights of the Stars are coming back this summer, on the night of August 7, 2026, in Essarts-le-Roi, Yvelines. It’s time to gaze at the sky and its constellations all evening long. [Read more]



Stargazing Nights 2026 in Trilport (77): two evening sessions to observe the sky in Seine-et-Marne
In Trilport, in the Seine-et-Marne department, the mysteries of the night sky unfold for the curious over two evenings, on August 7 and 8, 2026, for the Nuits des Etoiles. On the program: stargazing and discoveries! [Read more]



Starry Nights 2026 in Paris: New Moon viewing at the Cité des Sciences
Star Night is back at the Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie, where science mediators have lined up a host of engaging activities in Parc de la Villette, just behind the Geode, on August 12, 2026, following a memorable eclipse. [Read more]



Star Nights 2026 in Paris: skywatching at Jardins d'Éole in the 18th arrondissement
The French Astronomical Association invites the whole family to the Jardins d'Éole on August 8, 2026, to celebrate the Nights of the Stars. A wonderful opportunity to learn more about the sky, and about this association that brings astronomy to Paris's parks and gardens all summer long! [Read more]



Starry Nights 2026 in Paris: observe the sky in Montmartre's Square Louise Michel
Head to Square Louise Michel in Montmartre on the night of August 9, 2026, for a free stargazing evening as part of the Nights of the Stars. A perfect chance to become an aspiring astronomer at the highest point in Paris! [Read more]



Starry Nights 2026 in Paris: sky-watching in the heart of the city at Parc Montsouris
The French Astronomical Association invites young and old to Montsouris Park on August 7, 2026, to celebrate Nuits des Etoiles. A great opportunity to learn more about the night sky, thanks to an installation that’s been filling Paris’s parks and gardens all summer long! [Read more]



The Diderot Park pool in Pantin (93): free swimming all summer
From June 15 to August 31, 2026, the town of Pantin reopens its seasonal swimming pool in Diderot Park. A refreshing oasis where you can swim for hours during the summer holidays, and all for free. [Read more]



Stains Beach 2026: free activities and entertainment for the summer holidays
From July 13 to August 28, 2026, the City of Stains presents “Smile, It’s Summer!”, a summer program that brings together free activities, sports, workshops, evenings, and leisure spaces for people of all ages. [Read more]



Swimming in the Marne: La Rive de Neuilly opens with a free inauguration
Swimming in the Marne makes a comeback in Neuilly-sur-Marne (Seine-Saint-Denis) with La Rive de Neuilly, a monitored natural area that the town will open to the public free of charge on Saturday, July 4, 2026, and will stay open through August 30, 2026. Here’s everything you need to know. [Read more]



Free pool and open-air cinema, sports activities at the Jules Noël Sports Center in the 14th arrondissement.
From July 4 to August 16, 2026, enjoy free access to the Jules Noël Sports Center pool, open to everyone, along with sports or arts activities and an outdoor movie night in Paris’s 14th arrondissement. [Read more]



The Léo Lagrange free outdoor pool for Summer 2026 in Paris's 12th arrondissement
A free pool for everyone this summer 2026 in Paris? Throughout the summer period, many public swimming spots will be open to the public, notably at the heart of the Léo Lagrange sports center in the 12th arrondissement, from July 4 to August 30, 2026. [Read more]



Outdoor pool and free sports activities in the 20th arrondissement for Summer 2026
The free swimming pool in the 20th arrondissement of Paris is back this summer, from July 4 to August 30, 2026, offering a wide range of sports activities. A refreshing outdoor option at the Louis Lumière Sports Center, on the Bagnolet side. [Read more]



A free climbing wall goes up along the Seine quays for Paris Plages 2026
A little bit of climbing along the Seine, interested? For Paris Plages, you and your family can tackle a climbing wall during free, open-to-all sessions starting July 4, 2026. [Read more]



Ozoir Plage: games, outdoor cinema, a funfair, free summer activities in Seine-et-Marne
For a little over a month, this town in Seine-et-Marne transforms into a free leisure hub, a breath of vacation atmosphere. It’s a chance to bring together generations for cinema screenings, sports, attractions, and convivial moments. [Read more]



Wheelbarrow Festival: free activities and tomato-picking at a farm in Yvelines
In Jouy-en-Josas, in Yvelines, the Wheelbarrow Festival will enliven the harvest at Ferme de Viltain! From August 18 to 21, 2026, enjoy free activities, family-friendly games, and pick tomatoes. [Read more]



Meaux Beach 2026: the summer seaside with swimming and activities at Meaux-les-Bains (77)
Meaux Plage transforms the banks of the Marne into a true seaside resort each summer, with supervised swimming and activities at Meaux-les-Bains in Seine-et-Marne. Mark your calendars for July 5 to August 23, 2026, for a moment with your feet in the sand. Free for residents of the metropolitan area, it’s the smart way to feel on vacation without traveling far this summer. We’ve got all the details. [Read more]



An archery competition and free activities unfold in front of a château in Val d'Oise.
From August 13 to 16, 2026, the Château d'Écouen – National Museum of the Renaissance comes alive to the rhythm of arrows for a 3D archery competition, a nature-leaning sport, with a wealth of free activities on offer right at the heart of the estate. [Read more]



Zippin' Paris: the zipline that lets you soar over Parc des Princes is back this summer
From June 13 to August 16, 2026, take to new heights at the Parc des Princes with a zipline above the stadium. Share adrenaline-fueled moments with your loved ones as you experience an exceptional activity: crossing the Parc des Princes by zipline! [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]



Nights of the Stars 2026: Photo exhibition and stargazing in Vayres-sur-Essonne (91)
The Astroclub of Vayres-sur-Essonne is once again taking part in Nuits des Etoiles 2026, offering free observations open to everyone on July 31. It's a great chance to become a true astronomy whiz! [Read more]



Stargazing Nights 2026: observing the night sky at the Uranoscope of Île-de-France (77)
On the occasion of Star Night, astronomy enthusiasts are gathering at the Uranoscope of Île-de-France in Seine-et-Marne on August 22, 2026! The perfect opportunity to observe the stars with pro-grade gear. [Read more]



Nights of the Stars 2026: Eclipse tales and stargazing at the Royal Domain of Marly (78)
At the Royal Domain of Marly, for the 2026 Nights of the Stars, the Louv'Science astronomy club invites you to join them on the night of August 8 for an extraordinary stargazing session. [Read more]



Nights of the Stars 2026: a show, workshops and stargazing at the Air and Space Museum
For the Night of the Stars 2026, the Air and Space Museum will once again open its doors for a special after-hours event, on Saturday, August 8, 2026, just a few days before a rare eclipse. [Read more]



Summer holidays 2026: join some unusual night-time excursions at the Paris Zoological Park this summer.
The Paris Zoological Park’s Nocturnes return for a new season this summer, running from July 2 to August 13, 2026, inviting visitors to discover Vincennes Zoo after dark. A different way to observe the animals and experience a visit to this Parisian venue. [Read more]



Tour de France Femmes 2026: the route and stages of its fifth edition
The route for the 2026 women's Tour de France has just been unveiled! Spanning August 1–9, 2026, it features nine stages, kicking off in Switzerland and finishing in Nice. Read on to see what this year has in store. [Read more]



At Parc Astérix, embrace a Gaulish Summer with longer days stretching into the evening, open until 10 p.m.
Sponsored - Experience Gaulish Summer from July 11 to August 30, 2026, with days extended until 10 p.m. and the big new feature: a nighttime show. Just 35 km north of Paris, Parc Astérix invites kids and adults alike on a true journey of discovery and thrills, featuring 50 rides and performances spread across five realms: Gaul, the Roman Empire, Ancient Greece, Egypt, and the Vikings. A day out designed to pack in adventures for family or friends, with a varied program to delight visitors of every age. [Read more]



Nice tip: spend a Sunday paddleboarding or canoeing at the Champigny nautical base (94).
From June 7 to August 23, 2026, on select summer Sundays, the Roland-Bouchier Water Sports Center invites you to explore the Marne by canoe, kayak, rowboat, or stand-up paddleboard, along a safe and supervised route. [Read more]



European Super Cup: Paris Saint-Germain vs. Aston Villa — which channel will broadcast the match?
Yet another trophy for Paris Saint-Germain? The Parisian club will face Aston Villa on August 12, 2026, in the UEFA Super Cup final, which pits the Champions League winners against the Europa League victors. [Read more]



Paris Plages 2026: Free activities, sports and entertainment at the Parc des Rives de Seine all summer long
During the height of the summer holidays, Paris Plages is back for a 2026 edition, running from July 4 to August 30. The lineup includes a host of activities and entertainment for the whole family, plus reading zones and sun loungers. [Read more]



Where to swim in the Seine in Paris in 2026? The Bassin de la Villette in the 19th arrondissement.
From July 4 to August 30, 2026, swimming reopens its doors to all budding swimmers at the Villette pools. Expect entertainment, sports activities, a nautical base and a splash pool: the lineup promises to be busy. [Read more]



Paris Plages 2026: the free program all summer long at the Bassin de la Villette
For Paris Plages, the Bassin de la Villette is back in service: from July 4 to August 30, 2026, it will host free activities for young and old, but above all, a charming swimming spot. [Read more]



Roland-Garros Tennis Club: Enjoy free admission to the French Tennis Championships this summer.
With the second edition of the "Roland-Garros Tennis Club," running from June 14 to August 23, 2026, the iconic stadium will open its doors free of charge to let tennis fans watch the finals of the French National Championships in singles. [Read more]



Paris Saint-Germain - Manchester United: a pre-season friendly to watch in August
On August 8, 2026, it will be on Swedish soil that Paris Saint-Germain faces Manchester United for a real, full-scale test ahead of the new season. A historic showdown and a prestige duel in the wake of the FIFA World Cup. [Read more]



A free cultural walk exploring the heritage of the Olympic Games as part of Canal Summer
The Canal Summer Festival is back, along with the Grand Olympic Heritage Walk, on August 1, 2026, inviting you to relive the Paris 2024 Olympic vibe through a free 14-kilometer cultural hike. [Read more]



EDF Aqua Challenge 2025: the open water swimming race in the Seine at Bras Grenelle
On Saturday July 26, 2025, the EDF Aqua Challenge will take place at the Bras Grenelle in Paris. An excellent opportunity for the French Swimming Federation to promote aquatic activities in the capital's natural environment. The races are open to all! [Read more]



Plantes pour Tous: the greenery deal in Paris and Île-de-France, upcoming August sales
Plant enthusiasts can count on Plantes pour Tous to stock your space with greenery of every size and style, from as little as 90 cents, this August and all year round. [Read more]



Paris Summer Festival: dance, exhibitions, magic, music... The full lineup for this 2026 edition.
As every year, the Paris l’été Festival charms the capital through the summer season. Make a date with July 11 to August 4, 2026, across Paris (and even farther out into the suburbs) to discover a cutting-edge cultural program spanning dance, circus, theatre, installation art, and music! Find out what’s in store. [Read more]



Île-de-France celebrates theater 2026: the free festival marks its tenth anniversary.
From July 3 to August 5, 2026, Île-de-France celebrates theater, marking its 10th edition on the leisure islands of Créteil, Port aux Cerises, and Cergy-Pontoise with free performances of circus, dance, theatre, and puppetry. [Read more]



The Vicomtes' Heritage 2026, Blandy-les-Tours Castle's summer sound-and-light show.
The Blandy-les-Tours Castle narrates its history from July 3 to August 29, 2026, with The Vicomtes' Heritage, a sound-and-light show that takes you through the centuries to discover this medieval fortress. We went to check it out—here’s a taste of what awaits. [Read more]



Mystery at Silent Pool: Agatha Christie Disappears at the Lucernaire
Mystery at Silent Pool: Agatha Christie is Missing, a detective play by Carla Girod, Drys Penthier and Axel Stein-Kurdzielewicz, is staged at Le Lucernaire in Paris by Compagnie des Ballons Rouges, from June 10 to August 23, 2026. The show revisits the real-life disappearance of Agatha Christie in 1926, blending investigation, unsettled memory, and theatrical fiction. [Read more]



The Bearer of History at the Petit Montparnasse until August 2026
Alexis Michalik’s Le Porteur d’Histoire has been extended at the Théâtre du Petit Montparnasse in Paris until August 31, 2026. An adventure play that blends mystery, historical storytelling, and a literary treasure hunt. [Read more]



The Lion King: the musical back for a sixth season at the Mogador Theatre – our review
The Lion King awaits you at the Mogador Theatre in Paris until August 9 as part of its fifth season, and it will launch a sixth season as early as September 2026, more than ten years after its last performance in this Parisian venue. We’ve seen it, and here’s everything you need to know! [Read more]



Les Monologues du Machin: Exploring Every Aspect of Sex at Comédie Bastille – Our Take
Les Monologues du Machin, a show by Thomas Caruso Aragona exploring masculinity and the relationship to the male body, is playing at the Comédie Bastille in Paris through August 22, 2026. [Read more]
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Dates and Opening Time
From August 1, 2026 to August 31, 2026