Night of Museums 2026: Date and Program for the Upcoming Edition in Paris and Île-de-France

Published by La Rédac · Photos by My de Sortiraparis · Updated on February 27, 2026 at 09:26 p.m.
The Night of Museums 2026 is making a grand return this Saturday, May 23! This free cultural event offers the perfect opportunity to rediscover the museums of Paris and Île-de-France in a one-of-a-kind atmosphere, as darkness falls. For one evening only, the region’s most beautiful cultural institutions open their doors to visitors free of charge. It’s the perfect chance to plan an itinerary around some spectacular nocturnal visits. We’re here to reveal the must-see highlights of this 2026 edition — a selection you won’t want to miss!

The Night of Museums 2026 is making a grand return for its 22nd edition, promising a night full of surprises across Paris and throughout Europe. Art enthusiasts are excited to once again enjoy this special free evening, where museums open their doors to a variety of unique activities every year. Expect new installations, renowned guest artists, guided tours, nighttime strolls, concerts, performances, and activities designed for children — all coming together to animate museums for an evening—or perhaps a night.

Le musée Carnavalet dévoile l'histoire de la Fontaine des Innocents dans une exposition inédite  - IMG20240423153442Le musée Carnavalet dévoile l'histoire de la Fontaine des Innocents dans une exposition inédite  - IMG20240423153442Le musée Carnavalet dévoile l'histoire de la Fontaine des Innocents dans une exposition inédite  - IMG20240423153442Le musée Carnavalet dévoile l'histoire de la Fontaine des Innocents dans une exposition inédite  - IMG20240423153442 Night at the Museums 2026: date, origin, history... All you need to know about this cultural celebration in Paris
Every year in May, the museums of Paris and the Ile-de-France region offer an exceptional nocturne. But where does this event come from? We explain. [Read more]

The Nuit des Musées is making a grand return this Saturday, May 23, 2025. Hundreds of cultural venues across Paris and Île-de-France will open their doors for the occasion. Expect special after-hours openings, family-friendly programs, exhibitions, performances, games, and discoveries — the region’s museums have prepared something for every visitor!

Once again this year, Sortiraparis brings you a curated list of must-visit museums in Paris and Île-de-France for Museum Night 2026. But it’s not just museums — stunning castles, foundations, and art venues are pulling out all the stops with creative programming designed to make your evening truly unforgettable, whether you're out with friends or family. This guide is still being put together and will be updated regularly. Be sure to check back often to discover the latest additions to the lineup for this exciting Night of Museums 2026.

In Paris and Île-de-France :

Musée Carnavalet rénové et repensé, les photos Musée Carnavalet rénové et repensé, les photos Musée Carnavalet rénové et repensé, les photos Musée Carnavalet rénové et repensé, les photos Night of Museums 2026 in Paris: the district-by-district lineup for this all-evening, free event
The Night of Museums is returning to Paris on Saturday, May 23, 2026. It's the perfect chance to explore museums that can sometimes be pricey, obscure, or little-known, yet offer unforgettable experiences. Over 80 museums in the city are taking part in this nocturnal cultural celebration. Here's a lineup of must-see attractions during this spectacular extended evening. [Read more]

Château de Fontainebleau - Napoléon III et Eugénie -  A7C4100Château de Fontainebleau - Napoléon III et Eugénie -  A7C4100Château de Fontainebleau - Napoléon III et Eugénie -  A7C4100Château de Fontainebleau - Napoléon III et Eugénie -  A7C4100 Night of Museums 2026 in Seine-et-Marne (77): The Schedule for this Grand Cultural Night
For the 2026 Night of Museums, the museums of Seine-et-Marne will open their doors to visitors on the evening of Saturday, May 23rd. Many of these attractions will be free of charge, offering a variety of exhibitions and activities that will delight both children and adults. Explore the program waiting for you in the 77th department for this 22nd edition. [Read more]

Musée de la Toile de Jouy - image00002Musée de la Toile de Jouy - image00002Musée de la Toile de Jouy - image00002Musée de la Toile de Jouy - image00002 Night of Museums 2026 in Yvelines (78): Your guide to evening cultural outings across the department
The Night of Museums is making a return on Saturday, May 23, 2026, inviting both young and old residents of Île-de-France to explore the most beautiful museums and historic sites in the Yvelines with special tours, activities, and surprises! Here’s a sneak peek at what awaits you in the department of 78 for this extraordinary evening. [Read more]

Maison-Atelier Foujita - 20230831 131042Maison-Atelier Foujita - 20230831 131042Maison-Atelier Foujita - 20230831 131042Maison-Atelier Foujita - 20230831 131042 Night of Museums 2026 in Essonne (91): Experience the Cultural Evenings Throughout the Department
For the 2026 Night of Museums, explore the museums of Essonne hosting special late-night openings this Saturday, May 23, 2026. It's a perfect opportunity to enjoy free access to museums and historic sites! Here’s the lineup for the 91. [Read more]

Le Château de Malmaison, de la demeure au muséeLe Château de Malmaison, de la demeure au muséeLe Château de Malmaison, de la demeure au muséeLe Château de Malmaison, de la demeure au musée Night of Museums 2026 in Hauts-de-Seine (92): Evening artistic visits scheduled for the occasion
For the Night of Museums 2026, the museums of Hauts-de-Seine are offering a variety of special late-night openings and free visits this Saturday, May 23, 2026. Explore our curated list of must-see events and outings you won't want to miss in the 92! [Read more]

Visuels musée et monument musée air espaceVisuels musée et monument musée air espaceVisuels musée et monument musée air espaceVisuels musée et monument musée air espace Night of Museums 2026 in Seine-Saint-Denis (93): the must-see nighttime events lineup
The Night of Museums takes place on Saturday, May 23, 2026, across France, bringing together visitors of all ages to explore flagship monuments open exclusively after hours! On this special evening, discover the best local offers and events organized by the Seine-Saint-Denis museums. Stay tuned and follow our guide! [Read more]

Le MAC-VAL, le musée d'art contemporain du Val-de-Marne et ses collections à portée de Navigo - IMG20240424120641Le MAC-VAL, le musée d'art contemporain du Val-de-Marne et ses collections à portée de Navigo - IMG20240424120641Le MAC-VAL, le musée d'art contemporain du Val-de-Marne et ses collections à portée de Navigo - IMG20240424120641Le MAC-VAL, le musée d'art contemporain du Val-de-Marne et ses collections à portée de Navigo - IMG20240424120641 Night of Museums 2026 in Val-de-Marne (94): The Schedule of Evening Art Events
For the 2026 Night of Museums, head over to the museums of Val de Marne this Saturday, May 23rd. Unique guided tours, concerts, screenings — the museums have put together a pretty exciting lineup for this special evening in the 94. [Read more]

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Our special selections :

Château de Fontainebleau - Napoléon III et Eugénie -  A7C3944 HDRChâteau de Fontainebleau - Napoléon III et Eugénie -  A7C3944 HDRChâteau de Fontainebleau - Napoléon III et Eugénie -  A7C3944 HDRChâteau de Fontainebleau - Napoléon III et Eugénie -  A7C3944 HDR Night of Museums 2026: The must-see events for this evening in Paris and Île-de-France
In just one night, it's impossible to visit every museum in the capital. So here’s a curated list of must-see spots, activities, and experiences you can’t miss during this Night of Museums on Saturday, May 23, 2026! Ready to immerse yourself in this extraordinary cultural evening? Follow the guide! [Read more]

Visuels Musée du Louvre - IMG20240625165431Visuels Musée du Louvre - IMG20240625165431Visuels Musée du Louvre - IMG20240625165431Visuels Musée du Louvre - IMG20240625165431 Night at the Museums 2026 in Paris: the Top 10 Must-See Events You Can't Miss This Year
Are you on the lookout for the best of the best for the Night of Museums in Paris and Île-de-France on Saturday, May 23, 2026? Free museum entries, special events — follow our guide to discover the top 10 must-see highlights for this extraordinary evening. From renowned institutions to hidden gems, there’s plenty to make your cultural night out unforgettable. [Read more]

Exposition Fragile ! à la Cité des Sciences et de l'IndustrieExposition Fragile ! à la Cité des Sciences et de l'IndustrieExposition Fragile ! à la Cité des Sciences et de l'IndustrieExposition Fragile ! à la Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie Night of Museums 2026 with the Family: Top Outings with Kids in Paris and Île-de-France
Would you like to enjoy the Night of Museums 2026 as a family? This Saturday, May 23rd, we're taking the kids to exhibitions and workshops starting in the afternoon. Check out the kid-friendly lineup for this exciting new edition! [Read more]

Visuels musée et monument - tour Saint-Jacques nuitVisuels musée et monument - tour Saint-Jacques nuitVisuels musée et monument - tour Saint-Jacques nuitVisuels musée et monument - tour Saint-Jacques nuit Night of Museums 2026: Unusual and Unique Evening Experiences to Discover in Paris and Île-de-France
For the 2026 Night of Museums, we’ve put together an unusual lineup designed to break the routine and take you on new adventures. Explore our curated list of unique events to try out this Saturday, May 23rd, during this special evening event! Are you ready to be amazed? [Read more]

Musée Gustave Moreau - IMG 0813Musée Gustave Moreau - IMG 0813Musée Gustave Moreau - IMG 0813Musée Gustave Moreau - IMG 0813 Night of Museums 2026 in Paris: Free evening visits to hidden or lesser-known venues
Why not take advantage of Museum Night to explore some hidden gems around the capital? Join us as we uncover lesser-known spots worth visiting! Mark your calendars for Saturday, May 23, 2026, and enjoy this special, free evening event. [Read more]

Le Musée Marmottan Monet à Paris et ses collections permanentesLe Musée Marmottan Monet à Paris et ses collections permanentesLe Musée Marmottan Monet à Paris et ses collections permanentesLe Musée Marmottan Monet à Paris et ses collections permanentes Night of Museums 2026: Reservation-only visits – where to sign up in Paris and Île-de-France?
Alert for a great deal! Get ready for Museum Night in advance to ensure you don’t miss any of the major events during this special cultural evening. Here’s a list of locations where you’ll need to book your tickets early so you can enjoy all the activities scheduled for Saturday, May 23, 2026. [Read more]

Musée Bourdelle rénové -  coursMusée Bourdelle rénové -  coursMusée Bourdelle rénové -  coursMusée Bourdelle rénové -  cours Night of Museums 2026 in Paris: Last-minute spots to visit without a reservation
During the Night of Museums on Saturday, May 23, 2026, you can hop from one art and cultural venue to the next, all without needing to book in advance. Get ready for last-minute museum visits that promise an unforgettable nocturnal experience! [Read more]

Les jardins du Musée Albert Kahn, nos photos Les jardins du Musée Albert Kahn, nos photos Les jardins du Musée Albert Kahn, nos photos Les jardins du Musée Albert Kahn, nos photos Night of Museums 2026 in Île-de-France: Cultural Venues Within Reach with Your Pass Navigo
Feeling adventurous and eager to explore beyond Paris during the Museum Night 2026? Discover the museums across Île-de-France that you can visit with your Navigo pass from the capital on Saturday, May 23, 2026. It's a perfect chance to experience the Parisian region like never before! [Read more]
 

Museum Night by theme :

Le Château d'Auvers sur Oise et sa collection permanente sur les ImpressionnistesLe Château d'Auvers sur Oise et sa collection permanente sur les ImpressionnistesLe Château d'Auvers sur Oise et sa collection permanente sur les ImpressionnistesLe Château d'Auvers sur Oise et sa collection permanente sur les Impressionnistes Night of Museums 2026: The Evening Program at Parisian Castles and Historic Monuments across Île-de-France
Night of Museums returns on Saturday, May 23, 2026. For this special occasion, many castles and historic landmarks across Paris and Île-de-France will open their doors after hours, offering free activities and entertainment. Discover the lineup for this artistic night-time adventure across the Paris region! [Read more]

Petit Palais - Collection permanente  -  plafond galerie sud - Alfred PhilippePetit Palais - Collection permanente  -  plafond galerie sud - Alfred PhilippePetit Palais - Collection permanente  -  plafond galerie sud - Alfred PhilippePetit Palais - Collection permanente  -  plafond galerie sud - Alfred Philippe Night of Museums 2026 in Paris and Île-de-France: Art Museums and Their Nighttime Events
Attention art enthusiasts: the Night of Museums is making its return on Saturday, May 23, 2026, in Paris and Île-de-France. Why not take this opportunity to immerse yourself in the worlds of your favorite artists? Painting, sculpture, photography — here’s the lineup of the region’s art museums offering an exceptional and artistic nocturnal experience. [Read more]

Le musée Rambolitrain - nos photos - image00056Le musée Rambolitrain - nos photos - image00056Le musée Rambolitrain - nos photos - image00056Le musée Rambolitrain - nos photos - image00056 Night of Museums 2026: Free Evening Openings at Railway Museums for Train Enthusiasts
The Night of Museums is returning this year on Saturday, May 23, 2026, in Paris and the Île-de-France region for its 22nd edition, offering a lineup of exceptional late-night openings—many of which are free—across the city and surrounding areas. Spoiler alert: there's something for everyone, including train and transport enthusiasts. And right here, discover the exciting lineup of events waiting for you this year at the railway museums across Paris and Île-de-France. [Read more]

Visuels musée et monument - musee de clunyVisuels musée et monument - musee de clunyVisuels musée et monument - musee de clunyVisuels musée et monument - musee de cluny Night of Museums 2026: History Museums Opens Their Doors for Special Nighttime Visits in Paris and Île-de-France
The Night of Museums is scheduled for Saturday, May 23, 2026, for its upcoming edition. Want to seize this opportunity to travel back in time? We’re revealing the lineup of evening openings waiting for you at History museums across Paris and Île-de-France. Expect great deals, often free tours, and unusual activities to make your night unforgettable! [Read more]

Maison Elsa Triolet-Aragon - IMG 2062Maison Elsa Triolet-Aragon - IMG 2062Maison Elsa Triolet-Aragon - IMG 2062Maison Elsa Triolet-Aragon - IMG 2062 Night of Museums 2026: The Workshop Museums and Artists’ Houses of Paris and Île-de-France
The Night of Museums is returning on Saturday, May 23, 2026, promising an evening filled with often-free night-time tours and engaging activities. Why not take this opportunity to explore artist studios across Paris and Île-de-France? Between museums that double as workshops and artist residencies, it's the perfect time to discover captivating spaces dedicated to renowned personalities. [Read more]

Visuels musée et monument - muséum histoire naturelle jardin des plantesVisuels musée et monument - muséum histoire naturelle jardin des plantesVisuels musée et monument - muséum histoire naturelle jardin des plantesVisuels musée et monument - muséum histoire naturelle jardin des plantes Night of Museums 2026: Science Museums Open Late Across Paris and Île-de-France
During the Night of Museums, science takes center stage! Here's what awaits you at the science museums and institutions. On the agenda: free night-time visits and captivating activities planned for Saturday, May 23, 2026. A perfect evening for both enthusiasts and the curious alike! [Read more]

Le Musée Stéphane Mallarmé - 77 - les photos - A7C02484Le Musée Stéphane Mallarmé - 77 - les photos - A7C02484Le Musée Stéphane Mallarmé - 77 - les photos - A7C02484Le Musée Stéphane Mallarmé - 77 - les photos - A7C02484 Night of Museums 2026 in music: evening concerts and musical activities across Paris
When museums become concert venues... Experience a unique Night of Museums on Saturday, May 23, 2026, with a curated lineup of musical activities. An evening packed with rhythm and entertainment to enjoy during this 22nd edition! [Read more]

Musée de la Toile de Jouy - image00012Musée de la Toile de Jouy - image00012Musée de la Toile de Jouy - image00012Musée de la Toile de Jouy - image00012 Night of Museums 2026 in Paris and Île-de-France: Free Evening Openings at Craft Museums
The Night of Museums is making its return to Paris and Île-de-France on Saturday, May 23, 2026. Curious to explore the craftsmanship of the Parisian region? Join us as we dive into the region's artisanal museums, featuring a lineup packed with free visits, special late-night openings, and a variety of unique activities and workshops. [Read more]

Rendez-vous aux Jardins 2023: Musiques et animations au Château de FontainebleauRendez-vous aux Jardins 2023: Musiques et animations au Château de FontainebleauRendez-vous aux Jardins 2023: Musiques et animations au Château de FontainebleauRendez-vous aux Jardins 2023: Musiques et animations au Château de Fontainebleau Night of Museums 2026: An Open-Air Experience in the Courtyards, Parks, and Gardens of Paris and Île-de-France
The Night of Museums is making its comeback on Saturday, May 23, 2026, in Paris and the Île-de-France region. If the weather cooperates, why not take advantage of outdoor visits? Gardens, parks, and other open-air locations—here’s the schedule of outdoor evening events lined up for this 22nd edition. [Read more]

La BnF Richelieu rouvre ses portes après 10 ans de travaux -  A7C9361 HDRLa BnF Richelieu rouvre ses portes après 10 ans de travaux -  A7C9361 HDRLa BnF Richelieu rouvre ses portes après 10 ans de travaux -  A7C9361 HDRLa BnF Richelieu rouvre ses portes après 10 ans de travaux -  A7C9361 HDR Night of Museums 2026: Exploring the Literary Museums and Writers' Houses of Paris and Île-de-France
For the Night of Museums in Paris and Île-de-France, literature lovers are especially spoiled. Explore the lineup of events at literary museums, libraries, and writers' homes taking part in the 22nd edition of this cultural nighttime event across the Paris region, scheduled for Saturday, May 23, 2026. [Read more]

Musée de la Pharmacie - Dynastie Menier - IMG 2203Musée de la Pharmacie - Dynastie Menier - IMG 2203Musée de la Pharmacie - Dynastie Menier - IMG 2203Musée de la Pharmacie - Dynastie Menier - IMG 2203 Night of Museums 2026: Discover Medical Museums in Paris & Île-de-France Opening Their Doors After Hours
The Night of Museums returns to Paris and Île-de-France on Saturday, May 23, 2026. Calling all medical enthusiasts — this is the perfect opportunity to explore the region’s museums dedicated to the world of medicine during this special, free evening event. [Read more]

Le Musée de la Légion d'Honneur à l'Hôtel de Salm Le Musée de la Légion d'Honneur à l'Hôtel de Salm Le Musée de la Légion d'Honneur à l'Hôtel de Salm Le Musée de la Légion d'Honneur à l'Hôtel de Salm Night of Museums 2026: Explore Military Institutions and Museums in Paris During the Evening
The Night of Museums returns on Saturday, May 23, 2026, across Paris and the Île-de-France region. This year, enjoy special late-night openings, free guided tours, and unique interactive activities. If you're fascinated by the army, its history, and its role, we've put together a curated selection of military institutions and museums taking part in the event. Check out what's planned for this edition. [Read more]

Visuels musée et monument - Cinémathèque française Visuels musée et monument - Cinémathèque française Visuels musée et monument - Cinémathèque française Visuels musée et monument - Cinémathèque française Night of Museums 2026 for film lovers: evening events focused on cinema across Paris and Île-de-France
The Night of Museums each year presents a fantastic lineup of late-night openings and exclusive events inside cultural venues. Attention film enthusiasts: here are some movie-themed outings to look forward to in Paris and Île-de-France during this 22nd edition! Pick your favorite cinematic experience for Saturday, May 23, 2026! [Read more]

Musée des Plans-Reliefs - nos photos - image00019Musée des Plans-Reliefs - nos photos - image00019Musée des Plans-Reliefs - nos photos - image00019Musée des Plans-Reliefs - nos photos - image00019 Night of Museums 2026: Escape rooms, murder mysteries... The playful games and experiences of this special evening
Who says museums have to be boring? An array of games, adventures, and interactive experiences await visitors at cultural venues across Paris and Île-de-France during this year's Night of Museums, on Saturday, May 23, 2026. Check out the schedule for an unconventional evening that transforms the region’s museums into your playground! [Read more]

All you have to do is choose your next outing! Please note that some venues are only accessible by reservation, so read the program carefully and start planning your evening now.

Practical information

Dates and Opening Time
On May 23, 2026

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

    Prices
    Free

    Official website
    nuitdesmusees.culture.gouv.fr

    Comments