Gare aux Docs 2026: the open-air cinema festival with a social mission, along La Recyclerie’s rails

An film festival on rails in Paris is pretty unusual! If you haven't heard of the event Gare aux docs yet, it's time to catch up. The REcyclerie, an eco-friendly venue built along the tracks of the former Gare de la Petite Ceinture in Paris, hosts from July 3 to August 1, 2026 the ninth edition of this outdoor documentary festival, offering a unique look at a range of engaged themes — but this year, tickets are required!

Presented on the big screen and under the stars as night falls, the festival promises a memorable cinematic experience that observes the fight for living things, thanks to a sensitive and political selection, from independent documentaries to spectacular naturalist productions, as well as field productions documenting current ecological and social struggles through educational or militant means.

Screenings, once free, are now pay-to-enter at €10 (a drink included) and on reservation only, starting at 9:30 p.m., as night falls, on Friday and Saturday evenings. You’ll be seated on deck chairs with headphones.

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