It's the highly anticipated annual event for art and culture lovers: the Night of Museums. Celebrating its 22nd edition, it returns this year! Mark your calendars for Saturday May 23, 2026, for an extraordinary evening when museums and landmarks across Paris and Île-de-France open their doors — and often free of charge!
For this brand-new edition, the Nuit of Museums offers an even richer and more diverse lineup: hundreds of museums, castles, and historical sites are opening their doors. On Saturday, May 23rd, 2026, alongside free exhibitions, thousands of activities are happening across participating venues: concerts, guided tours, games, film screenings, performances, and more...
It's hard to find your way through all the choices. How do you find the coolest events, the most beautiful venues, all without spending a penny? Don't worry, you've come to the right place: to help you, we've put together a selection of the top 10 must-do events for this Nuit des Musées in Paris and the Ile-de-France region.
A free late-night at the Musée d’Orsay: the art-filled evening you won’t want to miss for Paris’ Nuit des Musées 2026
The Musée d'Orsay is taking part in the 22nd edition of the Night of Museums this Saturday, May 23, 2026, with a free, engaging after-hours tour centered on the museum's collections. It's a chance to enjoy an artistic evening during this unmissable cultural event. Discover what's in store. [Read more]
Quirky sketches at the Louvre Museum for an exceptional nocturnal edition of the Night of Museums!
The Louvre Museum is taking part in Nuit des Musées 2026 this Saturday, May 23, 2026, and will host a free, special after-hours opening at this iconic Parisian landmark. But be warned: you must register in advance to participate! So, ready for the 22nd edition? [Read more]
Night of Museums 2026: Enjoy a free evening visit to the Paris Sewers Museum
This spring, the Night of Museums also takes place at the Paris Sewers Museum. Join us on Saturday, May 23, 2026, for a series of self-guided and immersive tours of this unusual Parisian landmark! A nighttime adventure to explore the hidden underground world of the city—interested? [Read more]
Night of the Museums 2026: Free Artistic Night at the Picasso National Museum in Paris
On the occasion of the 22nd Night of Museums, the Picasso Museum has unveiled its schedule for Saturday, May 23, 2026. Here's a glimpse of what awaits during this must-attend cultural event, which offers numerous evening openings across Paris and Île-de-France. [Read more]
A family-friendly musical show: the Night of Museums 2026 activities at the Toy Museum.
For the 2026 Night of Museums, head to a delightful, playful museum that will thrill both kids and grown-ups. This Saturday, May 23, 2026, the Toy Museum is opening its doors for free during this XXL art night. [Read more]
Museum Night 2026 at the Château de Versailles (78): a royal, musical late-night affair
What to do for the 2026 Night of Museums at Versailles? Here’s what awaits you for this 22nd edition, eagerly anticipated on May 23, 2026, in the heart of the Sun King’s domain! [Read more]
Nuit des Musées 2026 : a free after-hours event at the BnF Richelieu site and its oval hall
The Night of Museums is back on Saturday, May 23, 2026. It's a great opportunity to explore, after dark, the famous oval hall and the National Library of France museum, which holds plenty of treasures. Click here to discover the evening's program. [Read more]
Family workshops and demonstrations: the 2026 Night of Museums at the Musée des Arts et Métiers in Paris
On the occasion of the 2026 Night of Museums, the Musée des Arts et Métiers invites us to a special after-hours event on Saturday, May 23, 2026: curious visitors of all ages will have the chance to discover machines and devices, each more extraordinary than the last. Here is the evening’s programme. [Read more]
Museums Night 2026: Enjoy a Free Evening at the Japan Culture House in Paris
The Japan Culture House invites you to explore its temporary exhibition for free during Museum Night. Join us for this special evening on Saturday, May 23, 2026, and discover the full program right here. [Read more]
An artistic performance beneath the Bourse de Commerce’s domed cupola for Paris’ 2026 Night of Museums.
Great news for contemporary art lovers, as the Bourse de Commerce announces its latest involvement in the Night of Museums. See you on Saturday, May 23, 2026 to (re)discover this striking Parisian art foundation through a special program. [Read more]
So, what’s on the agenda for the 2026 Night of Museums in Paris and the surrounding areas?
Dates and Opening Time
On May 23, 2026
Prices
Free
Official website
nuitdesmusees.culture.gouv.fr
