10 Unusual Outings to Try in Paris and Île-de-France This February-March 2026 Holiday Season

Published by My de Sortiraparis · Photos by My de Sortiraparis · Updated on January 26, 2026 at 09:46 a.m. · Published on February 10, 2025 at 10:37 a.m.
Are you looking for unique outings to enjoy during your winter break in 2026? Discover our curated selection of unusual activities from February 20 to March 8, 2026. From immersive experiences and quirky exhibitions to surprising discoveries, explore the capital and its surroundings from a fresh perspective.

These February holidays are packed with unusual outings that invite families and friends to make the most of the winter break. It’s the perfect time to escape the everyday and unwind by exploring creative activities that turn Paris into an unexpected playground. From thrills and discoveries to immersive experiences, the city offers surprising ideas far from the usual tourist spots, available from February 20 to March 8, 2026.

Whether you're a fan ofoutdoor adventures or curious about new cultural experiences, Paris has no shortage of little-known places and unsuspected nooks and crannies. From the exploration of an unusual site to the discovery of an ephemeral art installation, not forgetting atypical events, these good tips offer a fresh look at the city.

With family, a partner, or friends, these unique winter holiday activities in 2026 offer a wonderful opportunity to see Paris from a new perspective. Whether you're after playful experiences, immersive adventures, or intimate outings, the City of Light continues to surprise those willing to venture off the beaten path.

10 unusual outings to try during the winter vacations :

LuminiscenceLuminiscenceLuminiscenceLuminiscence Luminescent Celestial Odyssey: the new show at Saint-Eustache Church unveiled, photos
The immersive sound and light show Luminiscence is returning to Saint-Eustache Church with an upgraded version called L'Odyssée Céleste, running from January 23 to April 2026. We had an exclusive preview of this mesmerizing 3D experience that transforms the historic Parisian monument’s vaulted ceilings, and here’s everything you need to know. [Read more]

Défilé du Nouvel an Lunaire - Chinois 2025 Paris 13e - les photos -  A7C1595Défilé du Nouvel an Lunaire - Chinois 2025 Paris 13e - les photos -  A7C1595Défilé du Nouvel an Lunaire - Chinois 2025 Paris 13e - les photos -  A7C1595Défilé du Nouvel an Lunaire - Chinois 2025 Paris 13e - les photos -  A7C1595 Chinese New Year Parade Paris 13e 2025: photos and video
The famous Chinese New Year parade in the 13th arrondissement of Paris, also known as the Lunar New Year, made a comeback this Sunday, February 9, 2025, much to our delight. [Read more]

Cernunnos Pagan Fest 2026 : fête médiévale gratuite en Seine-et-MarneCernunnos Pagan Fest 2026 : fête médiévale gratuite en Seine-et-MarneCernunnos Pagan Fest 2026 : fête médiévale gratuite en Seine-et-MarneCernunnos Pagan Fest 2026 : fête médiévale gratuite en Seine-et-Marne Cernunnos Pagan Fest 2026: Free Medieval Festival in Seine-et-Marne
The Cernunnos Pagan Fest is making its way back to La Ferme du Buisson in Noisiel, Seine-et-Marne, for a one-of-a-kind celebration blending pagan metal concerts with a free medieval fair complete with artisan stalls and historical activities, taking place on February 21 and 22, 2026. [Read more]

Fête Viking et Marché médiéval vous attendent dans le Val d'OiseFête Viking et Marché médiéval vous attendent dans le Val d'OiseFête Viking et Marché médiéval vous attendent dans le Val d'OiseFête Viking et Marché médiéval vous attendent dans le Val d'Oise Viking Festival and Medieval Market await you in Val d'Oise
The Val-d'Oise region will host a Viking festival on March 7 and 8, 2026, in Fosses. The event features a medieval market, a Viking combat tournament, and historic crafts at the Cathy Fleury gymnasium. Admission is free, inviting visitors to step back in time for a weekend of history and festivities. [Read more]

Bomb Squad Paris : l'Action Game qui fait sensation dans la capitaleBomb Squad Paris : l'Action Game qui fait sensation dans la capitaleBomb Squad Paris : l'Action Game qui fait sensation dans la capitaleBomb Squad Paris : l'Action Game qui fait sensation dans la capitale Bomb Squad Paris: our review of the explosive action game in Paris
Bomb Squad is a brand-new action game in Paris's 3rd arrondissement. A race against time combining puzzles, adrenalin and strategy... We've tested it, and we'll tell you all about it! [Read more]

Salon de l'agriculture 2024 - image00039Salon de l'agriculture 2024 - image00039Salon de l'agriculture 2024 - image00039Salon de l'agriculture 2024 - image00039 Salon de l'Agriculture 2026: dates and information to remember for Paris
This year's Salon de l'Agriculture 2026 takes place from February 21 to March 1, 2026 at Paris Expo Porte de Versailles in the 15th arrondissement. This 62nd edition brings together over 1,000 breeders and 4,000 animals over 9 days of events, from 9am to 7pm every day. [Read more]

Visuels Hippodrome de Longchamp - courses de chevaux - Prix de Diane - image00252Visuels Hippodrome de Longchamp - courses de chevaux - Prix de Diane - image00252Visuels Hippodrome de Longchamp - courses de chevaux - Prix de Diane - image00252Visuels Hippodrome de Longchamp - courses de chevaux - Prix de Diane - image00252 Lunar New Year 2026 at Vincennes Racecourse: dragon dance, gourmet treats, and free activities
As the lunar new year begins, the Chinese New Year will take over the Paris-Vincennes Racecourse on Sunday, February 22, 2026, for a grand free celebration. For one day, ancient traditions, captivating performances, and the thrilling world of horse racing come together in a lively, immersive atmosphere. This celebration is especially meaningful, as 2026 marks the Year of the Horse, perfectly in tune with Vincennes’ identity. [Read more]

Visuel Paris 6e - Monnaie de ParisVisuel Paris 6e - Monnaie de ParisVisuel Paris 6e - Monnaie de ParisVisuel Paris 6e - Monnaie de Paris La Monnaie de Paris by flashlight: an unusual nighttime tour, dates for 2026
The Paris Mint is a fascinating institution that you can explore both during the day... and after hours! Don’t miss the special flashlight tours scheduled in January, February, and March. Get ready for a nighttime adventure through the heart of Paris! [Read more]

Le Nouvel en vietnamien gratuit dans le 13e, le programmeLe Nouvel en vietnamien gratuit dans le 13e, le programmeLe Nouvel en vietnamien gratuit dans le 13e, le programmeLe Nouvel en vietnamien gratuit dans le 13e, le programme Vietnamese Lunar New Year – Free celebrations in the 13th arrondissement: Highlights of the Têt Festival Program
Mark your calendar for February 7, 12, and 21, 2026, at the Paris Cité University’s Grands Moulins Campus to celebrate Tết, the Vietnamese New Year. The festivities will feature craft workshops, traditional storytelling, tea tasting, and cake decorating. Be sure to register now for these free sessions—and join in the celebration! [Read more]

Paradox Museum Paris, le parcours fou d'illusions d'optiqueParadox Museum Paris, le parcours fou d'illusions d'optiqueParadox Museum Paris, le parcours fou d'illusions d'optiqueParadox Museum Paris, le parcours fou d'illusions d'optique The Paradox Museum Paris unveils its special Blue Monday offer starting January 19th
Paradox Museum, with nearly a hundred interactive experiences, offers a mind-bending journey through trompe-l'œil, optical illusions, and sensory disruptions in the heart of Paris. Prepare to be fooled and to snap surreal photos that will leave your friends guessing. Five brand-new immersive installations have just been added to the lineup—it's the perfect time to put your senses to the test! As a sweet bonus, indulge in the ultra-gourmet flavors at the brand-new Hans & Gretel café, guaranteed to delight. And from January 19 to 23, for Blue Monday, each ticket purchased gets you one free—discover the quirky condition behind the madness in our latest article! [Read more]

In short, why not step off the beaten path a little and spice up our lives during these February-March holidays? Whether with family, friends, or just the two of you, there’s always a way to escape the winter blues and add some excitement to the season. 

For further information:

Visuel Paris Tour Eiffel manège enfantsVisuel Paris Tour Eiffel manège enfantsVisuel Paris Tour Eiffel manège enfantsVisuel Paris Tour Eiffel manège enfants What to do during the February 2026 vacations with children in Paris?
The February or winter vacations run from February 21 to March 8, 2026 in Paris and zone C! Whether the weather's fine or not, discover what the capital has in store for the little ones, with its walks, activities and treats. [Read more]

Practical information

Dates and Opening Time
From February 20, 2026 to March 8, 2026

× Approximate opening times: to confirm opening times, please contact the establishment.

    Recommended age
    For all

    Comments
    Refine your search
    Refine your search
    Refine your search
    Refine your search