The jeudi de l'Ascension, traditionally celebrated 40 days after Easter, opens a prime window to unwind and escape the daily grind. In 2026, the Ascension Thursday falls on 14 May. We then enjoy the Ascension long weekend stretching from 14 to 17 May 2026, promising four days of relaxation and discovery for the lucky ones who take the long weekend. Whether you decide to venture beyond the capital or rediscover Paris with a fresh perspective, the Ascension bridge weekend is the perfect opportunity.
For those who decide to stay in Paris, the city offers a multitude of cultural and artistic activities. Exhibitions in Paris over the Ascension weekend are a window onto the world of art, history and innovation. Among the 10 must-see exhibitions, you'll find retrospectives of renowned artists, captivating thematic exhibitions and interactive installations that will delight young and old alike. Each exhibition is an invitation to travel through time and space, discover new perspectives and enrich personal culture.
Don't miss this unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the fascinating world of the arts in Paris. Whether you're a history buff, amodern art lover or simply looking for an enriching experience, these exhibitions are for you. Make the most of your Ascension long weekend to explore, learn and marvel. Paris, with its incomparable cultural heritage and numerous galleries, promises unforgettable moments.
The Ascension Bridge is a golden opportunity to recharge your batteries, get inspired and enjoy the beauty and cultural richness of Paris. Don't wait any longer to organize your extended weekend and enjoy unique experiences in the City of Light.
Admire them all: Pokémon take center stage in a playful and nostalgic exhibition at the Musée en Herbe
The Musée en Herbe marks Pokémon’s 30th anniversary with an exhibition that is as artistic as it is playful, on view from April 16 to September 6, 2026. [Read more]
Fashion in all its majesty: the Haute Couture exhibition at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs unfolds — our photos
The Decorative Arts Museum hosts Fashion in Majesty: Haute Couture and Tradition at the Thai court from May 13 to November 1, 2026. Through more than a hundred outfits, accessories, and textile pieces drawn from the royal family's collections, the exhibition shows how Queen Sirikit modernized Thai ceremonial dress while preserving its traditional codes, notably through her collaboration with Pierre Balmain and Maison Lesage. [Read more]
Exhibition "Sèvres, a Rothschild Passion" : a deep dive into the sumptuous collections of the famous family at the Mobilier National
Dive into the art of 18th-century Sèvres porcelain, and especially into the highly sought-after Rothschild family collections, with the exhibition Sèvres, a Rothschild passion, on view from April 17 to July 26, 2026 at the Mobilier national. [Read more]
Lee Miller : a major exhibition devoted to the renowned photographer at the Museum of Modern Art
From April 10 to August 2, 2026, the Paris Musée d'Art Moderne will devote a major retrospective to photographer Lee Miller. Spanning nearly 250 vintage and contemporary prints, the exhibition aims to illuminate the breadth of the American artist's work, from her fashion shots to portraits and landscapes, and to her war photojournalism. [Read more]
Michelangelo / Rodin: Sculptors in a head-to-head encounter in a major Louvre museum exhibition
The Louvre Museum brings two great masters of sculpture into dialogue in an exhibition that takes us behind the secrets of creation: from April 15 to July 20, 2026, don't miss "Michelangelo / Rodin". [Read more]
The splendors of Baroque: The Jacquemart-André Museum's Spring Exhibition
The Jacquemart-André Museum is taking visitors on a journey through Hispanic Baroque art, from March 26 to August 2, 2026. Don't miss the exhibition "Splendors of the Baroque." [Read more]
AURA INVALIDES, the must-see sound and light show in Paris
Looking for a unique nocturnal experience in Paris? Ready to be amazed and embark on a timeless journey to a legendary heritage site? Come and discover AURA INVALIDES, a sound and light show at the iconic Dôme des Invalides as night falls. A magical moment in the heart of the Dome, sure to delight young and old alike. [Read more]
Lafayette, bridging France and America: free exhibit on the Marquis at the National Archives
From April 1 to July 14, 2026, the National Archives will host a free exhibition dedicated to Marquis de Lafayette. Featuring rare documents, caricatures, and related artifacts, this exhibition traces the life of the "hero of two worlds" — a figure equally celebrated in the United States and debated within France, against the backdrop of revolutionary upheavals. [Read more]
Renaissance masters: Da Vinci, Raphael, Michelangelo — immersive exhibition unveils at the Atelier des Lumières
L'Atelier des Lumières invites visitors to discover the great masters of the Renaissance with an immersive and educational exhibition running from March 13 to July 2, 2026, and on certain days during the summer holidays. [Read more]
Can’t find what you’re after? Explore all current exhibitions and our savvy deal guides:
Ascension Day 2026: Museums and monuments open this public holiday Thursday in Paris and Île-de-France
A new public holiday in France, another chance to enjoy the beautiful museums and monuments near you: this Thursday, May 14, 2026, is Ascension Day. But which art and culture venues stay open on this public holiday? Here’s the rundown. [Read more]
Are you looking for a free museum in Paris or a free monument in Île-de-France? Free-access venues, free tours on the first Sunday of each month, museums free for under-26s and for teachers: discover the cultural deals you won’t want to miss. [Read more]
In Paris, young people under the age of 26, as well as students and teachers, have the chance to enter many museums and monuments for free! Free on presentation of an identity card or student card, museums allow all young people to open up to the world, to art and to enjoy our exceptional heritage, without discrimination, discover what you are entitled to. [Read more]
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Dates and Opening Time
From May 14, 2026 to May 17, 2026
Ascension Day 2026: Museums and monuments open this public holiday Thursday in Paris and Île-de-France
Free museums in Paris and free monuments in Île-de-France: the top cultural deals
Free museums and monuments for young people under 26 in Paris and the Ile-de-France region
