Nights of Reading 2026: Can't-Miss Free Events at the Literary Evenings

A true literary gathering, the Nights of Reading have become the must-do event of the winter season. Launched by the Ministry of Culture, this event carries a simple promise: to make literature and places of knowledge accessible to everyone. From January 21 to 25, 2026, numerous museums and cultural institutions will open their doors, many free of charge. It’s a great opportunity to enjoy these special late-night events without breaking the bank!

This is the perfect opportunity to step inside prestigious cultural institutions or explore hidden neighborhood gems—all for free—while enjoying high-quality programming. Beyond just reading, attendees can take part in writing workshops, attend literary concerts, or join in nocturnal treasure hunts, making for five evenings filled with discoveries and a touch of literature.

While some are open to the public at all times, others require reservations or have limited capacity: a quick look at the online schedules will help you plan your visit smoothly and enjoy the Nights of Reading without any worries! Here’s a guide to the best deals for book lovers!

Free Nights of Reading

Nights of Reading 2026: A poetic journey, live storytelling, and creative writing games in the RER C
What if your daily commute turned into a poetic journey? For the 2026 Nights of Reading, the RER C is swapping its usual routine for creative writing workshops and storytelling sessions. Let yourself be carried away by words onboard the trains, transforming your ride into a literary performance. [Read more]

Nights of Reading 2026: Literary Evening and DJ Set at Ground Control in Paris
Ground Control is taking part in this year's Night of Reading on January 23, 2026, offering an exciting and free lineup of activities for everyone to enjoy! [Read more]

Nights of Reading 2026: Evening reading event in the Oval Room at the Richelieu Branch of the National Library of France
What if the story of the universe fit within the walls of a library? During the 2026 Nights of Reading, the BnF Richelieu opens its doors for an immersive journey into the witty and scholarly poetry of Raymond Queneau. Beneath the grand, vaulted ceilings of this historic site, be guided through a reading of “The Little Portable Cosmology” for a literary voyage to the origins of the world—an exploration blending knowledge with imagination. [Read more]

Nights of Reading 2026: Free Interactive Shows for the Whole Family at the Grand Palais
Immer yourself in new and exciting worlds: take part in the activities organized at the Grand Palais for the Nights of Reading, happening on January 24th and 25th, 2026. [Read more]

Nights of Reading 2026: Writing workshops, comic strip sessions, and performances at the Mobilier National
During the Nuits de la Lecture 2026, the Mobilier National invites you to an evening outside of time. Inside the historic walls of this prestigious institution, performances and workshops pay homage to its rich heritage, celebrating art and the enchanting power of words. [Read more]

Nights of Reading 2026: A Graphic Novel Journey into 18th-Century Life at the Cognacq-Jay Museum
The Cognacq-Jay Museum in Paris invites visitors to kick off the 10th edition of Nuits de la lecture. Join us on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, for a graphic novel journey into 18th-century Paris, guided by Arnaud Le Gouëfflec — a novelist, comic strip writer, and musician. [Read more]

Nights of Reading 2026 at the Institut de France: A Reading Marathon at the Mazarine Library
The Institut de France is hosting a reading marathon on January 24th at the Mazarine Library to celebrate the 2026 Nights of Reading. [Read more]

Nights of Reading 2026: A Literary Marathon in the Heart of a Parisian Private Mansion
For its 10th edition happening from January 21 to 25, 2026, the Nights of Reading will turn Paris into a vibrant stage for readings, performances, and encounters. On January 22, the Hôtel de Béhague will open its doors for a dadaist poetic marathon, inviting the audience to become readers and delve into the world of avant-garde Romanian literature. [Read more]

Nights of Reading 2026: Musical Travel Tales at the Arab World Institute
For a brief stopover, the Arab World Institute invites you on a free poetic and musical journey. On January 25, 2026, during the Night of Reading, the IMA library will share tales of distant travels. [Read more]