What’s On in Paris – November 2024

November 1st (Le Toussaint, aka All Saints Day aka Day of the Dead) and November 11 (Armistice Day) are bank holidays in France.

CLICK HERE FOR THE 2024 PARIS HOLIDAY GUIDE

Through November 2
Celebrate Halloween at Le Parc de l’Étrange in Domaine National de Saint-Cloud, the large park on the western edge of Paris. This immersive 1.5km journey transports visitors into a spooky world filled with witches, ghosts, and haunted forests. The interactive, family-friendly experience is perfect for ages 7 and up, with 13 eerie scenes to navigate, ending with a gothic funfair. Fireworks and drone shows light up the sky nightly at 8pm, 9pm, and 10pm. Special Halloween night event on October 31st. Reservations recommended. Tickets €19-€29.

Through November 2
Galerie Minsky (37 Rue Vaneau, 7th) is one of the many galleries honoring the centennial of surrealism, with an exhibition dedicated to the bold and fantastical works of Leonor Fini. Showcasing pieces from 1927 to 1995, the exhibition highlights her unique blend of eroticism, dreams, and androgyny. Fini’s powerful female figures and fragile, sensual male subjects blur the boundaries between genders and reality. Open Tuesday to Saturday, 10:30am-1pm, 2pm-6pm. Free entry.

Through November 2
The Château de Vincennes, home to Europe’s tallest dungeon, is hosting Château de Lumières, yet another light show, but this time in a historic 14th-century fortress on the eastern edge of Paris. Experience 15 light and sound installations scattered throughout the courtyard, as well as a ‘video mapping’ laser show every 30 minutes on the Royal Pavilion showcasing the castle’s history (with French narration). Notable works include Evanescent, featuring giant bubble-like spheres, and Nexus Dream, an ethereal display of cosmic collisions. Open Wednesday-Sunday from 6:30pm to 11pm, rain or shine (bring umbrellas and rain boots!) Tickets: €18 (adults), €14 (ages 6-25), free for kids under 6, family price €12 per person for 2 adults and 2 children. There’s also a small “food court” and boutique. Entrance through the Tour du Village, on the Avenue de Paris (just outside the metro station Château de Vincennes, line 1).

November 3 (and every 1st Sunday)
Many museums and monuments in Paris are open for free the first Sunday of the month. In November, that includes the Orsay, Picasso, Pompidou, Cluny, Arts-et-Métiers, Orangerie, Cité de l’Architecture, Quai Branly, and the Château Fontainebleau. Be sure to check each museum’s website, as some still require you to have a timed ticket; even if the entrance is free. See the full list here.

Through November 3
Stuff yourself with all kinds of chocolately goodies at the annual Salon du Chocolat, at the Paris-Expo – Porte de Versailles (metro line 12), 10am-7pm. Entrance €16 (€8 for kids under 12), €42 for families. You can get advance tickets online or ask at your favorite chocolate shop if they have any extra invitations. Avoid the weekend unless you’re a masochist!

November 5
Join “Une Nuit Américaine avec Backseat” to watch live U.S. election coverage (in French) at the Théâtre de la Concorde. From 21h to 4h, this unique night includes live results, expert discussions on global impacts, pop culture insights, a general knowledge quiz, and late-night Geoguessr games focused on the U.S. All in French. If you’re a night owl, book the special midnight to 4h slot! Free entry, limited seats are available.

November 6
The BHV Marais kicks off its holiday season with the inauguration of Christmas lights and window displays featuring the whimsical cartoonish designs of Limistic. The launch party tonight in front of the store will have an artistic light and sound show with dancers and music starting at 6pm, which will close a portion of Rue de Rivoli (between Rue des Archives and Rue du Temple) to vehicles until 7:05pm. Open to anyone for free.

November 6-11
The 48th annual Salon Marjolaine, the largest organic fair in Paris, takes place this week at the Parc Floral (Bois de Vincennes) with 450 stands selling everything organic you could imagine: produce, meats, cheeses, artisan oils, wines, essential oils, herbs, teas, cosmetics, beauty products, household cleaning products, clothing, shoes, accessories, home decor, books, gardening supplies, as well as stands for environmental tourism, different green activist groups such as Greenpeace, etc. There are also plenty of food stands for lunch onsite, a coat check, and a little shuttle from the metro Château de Vincennes to the entrance of the Parc Floral. Open 10:30am-7pm (Friday until 9pm). Entry €10, but you can get a €3 discount voucher on the website to print out in advance (or pay the ticket online in advance and skip waiting in line).  

November 8-11
Time to stock up on original Christmas gifts “Made in France” at the 10th annual MIF Expo at the Porte de Versailles (expo hall 3): “MIF Expo offers a showcase that allows French industry, innovation and creativity to meet consumers.” There will be gourmet goodies, toys, home & decor, clothing, beauty & hygiene products, and technological innovations. Get a preview of the show on this video. Open 10am-7pm (Sunday until 6pm), get a free invitation on the website or pay €10 at the door (reimbursed with your first purchase). Note that coat check is €2/item. 

November 8 – 24
The Festival des Fiertés returns for its 4th edition across the 12th, 13th, and 14th arrondissements, featuring an array of LGBTQIA+ cultural and artistic events. The program includes free circus workshops, theatrical readings, performances, film screenings, and exhibitions celebrating LGBTQIA+ history, identity, and culture. Highlights include workshops by Cirque Fier.e.s, a theatrical reading of La Loi de la Gravité, the Trans Parents performance by Les Étoiles Transformées, and a voguing ball led by Kylee Mamasha. Additional events cover literary discussions, art exhibitions, and more across multiple venues, with most events free but requiring prior registration.

November 9-17
Time for the 23nd annual Day of the Dead art exposition at the print-making gallery and artist atelier, the Association pour l’Estampe et l’Art Populaire (49bis, rue des Cascades, 20th). Come see the traditional altar, and artworks celebrating the dead from 22 different artists in the heart of Belleville. The exposition is open daily 3-8pm (vernissage November 9th at 6pm). Free entry.

Through November 11
The Jour des Morts (aka Dia de los Muertos, aka Day of the Dead, aka Toussaint in France) is officially November 1st, but there are events all over Paris in the week leading up to it, from celebratory altars and music concerts to parades and “catrinas” contests. There will also be special decorations and events for kids at the Jardin d’Acclimatation October 5-November 11.

November 12 – 16
The Paris 13 Tattoo Expo takes over the Mairie du 13ᵉ with a vibrant, immersive experience celebrating tattoo culture and artistry, featuring 25 artists, daily seminars, talks, and unique performances. Highlights include an exhibition of tattoo history by collector William Robinson, appearances by notable figures like France’s most tattooed man, Freakyhoody, and a public tattoo contest. Open Tuesday from 1pm-9:30pm, Wednesday to Thursday from 11am-7pm, Friday from 11am-9:30pm, and Saturday from 11am-6pm. Located at the Mairie du 13ᵉ, Place d’Italie. Free admission, program details at paris13tattooexpo.com.

November 15-17
ReLuxury is the first trade show dedicated to pre-owned and collectible luxury goods at the Carrousel du Louvre (99 rue de Rivoli, 1st). This second edition in Paris will host over 60 exhibitors selling “pre-loved” and vintage watches, jewelry, fashion, handbags, “Art de la Table” and interior design. Visitors can resell, restore and shop, as well as attend a series of talks on sustainable luxury and vintage fashion. “Just looking” comes at a price: tickets €25.

November 15-18
The Portes Ouvertes d’Anvers aux Abbesses invites the public to explore over 50 artist studios around Montmartre in the 9th and 18th arrondissements, where painters, sculptors, photographers, ceramists, and engravers will showcase their work. For this open-studio event, you’ll find exhibitions like Le Mur des Émiles, a collection of small-format pieces for sale at €100, and a curated Fonds de Collection at 19 Rue Boucry, featuring past award-winning works. Free entry. Hours: Friday 6-9pm; Saturday-Sunday 11am-8pm; Monday 2-8pm. Start at 7 Rue Trétaigne for maps, or download online.

Through November 16
The Galerie Pascal Lansberg (36 Rue de Seine, 6th) presents Pierre Soulages, an exhibition focusing on the artist’s early works from the 1950s, before his famous outrenoir period. It features rare pieces that explore Soulages’ mastery of light and shadow, blending his signature dark palette with touches of blue, ochre, and yellow. Open Tuesday to Saturday, 11am-7pm. Free entry.

Through November 16
The Hôtel de Ville (Place de l’Hôtel de Ville, 4th) presents Paris se présente au monde, an exhibition that offers both residents and visitors a lively and unique portrait of the city through interesting anecdotes and statistics about the city. Discover how Paris reflects its diverse population, eco-conscious initiatives, and dynamic urban culture. The exhibition features large-scale portraits, interactive installations, and even a time capsule for future generations. Free entry with online reservation. More info and reservations.

November 16
La Cité Fertile in Pantin is calling for all arsty-craftsy volunteers to help create the Cité Noël Christmas village today from 2-5pm. Come out for an afternoon of painting, drawing, and a bit of DIY bricolage in a festive atmosphere, no experience is needed (you probably should understand at least a tiny bit of French, but someone will certainly be able to help translate if you’re willing to put yourself out there). Sign up here: https://citefertile.com/events/chantier-benevole-de-noel-2/

November 20-23
The annual Salon Idées Japon features all kinds of arts, decor, foods, and clothing from Japan just in time for the holiday shopping. At the Espace Cinko (12-18, Passage Choiseul, 2nd). Open 11am-7:30pm.

November 21
Although it’s rather low-key in France compared to the hype it gets in America, the annual Beaujolais Nouveau festival takes place in wine bars throughout Paris today. You can find events at almost any wine bar in Paris, but if you’re hurting for ideas this article has a map of listings throughout France (and the world) that will be doing something special to celebrate, and Paris Wine Walks has a special ‘real Beaujolais Nouveau wine walk’ through the Latin Quarter.

November 22-24
Les Banques Alimentaires — French food banks — are holding their annual collection drive this weekend to stock up for the winter. You’ll see them just after the check-outs in supermarkets where you can purchase food and hygiene products to contribute.

November 22-24
Bundle up for the open-air brocante flea market along the Rue de Bretagne and side streets in the north Marais. There will be 350 stands selling a bit of everything from antique furniture to retro home decor, to old books and second-hand clothes. Open all day long from 6am-7pm, get there early to beat the crowds!

Through November 23
Paris, Cœur de Lumières is an immersive sound and laser light show at Saint-Sulpice, celebrating the history of Paris and the construction of the church with a theatre production where the lives of fictional characters (such as one of the church’s masons) are intertwined with 150 years of French historical characters such as Louis XIV. Think of it as a very enthusiastic amateur theatre production with a huge (mostly volunteer) cast and spectacular visual effects in a historic setting. Two performances will run daily at 7pm and 9pm, in French, but with a QR code to scan for scene summaries in English (do yourself a favor and read them in advance here). Tickets €19-€56. Some of the proceeds go towards the church’s restoration. For more information, visit: paris.coeurdelumieres.fr.

November 24
Experience the first edition of Sunny November, an eco-friendly Sunday on the Mazette péniche (boat moored at 69 Port de la Râpée, 12th) featuring an eco-market with vintage clothing, artisanal crafts, and more (11am-7pm, free entry); join workshops to make disco flower pots, plant art, scented candles, and vegan pastries (reservation required); and indulge in vegan burgers and cookies throughout the day. The evening wraps up with a live funk concert by @koretta_music at 8:30pm followed by DJ sets (get tickets here for the evening shows, €12-14).

November 24
The holiday season in Paris officially kicks off with tonight’s ceremony turning on the lights of the Avenue des Champs-Elysées, at 6:30pm. Each year there’s a star to help children from Les Petits Princes charity push the magic button to light up the avenue (this year it’s Tony Estanguet), broadcast live on France 3. There will also be a 13.5m tall Christmas tree. The lights will be on each night from 5pm to midnight until January 6th.

November 28-December 1
The 46th annual Salon des Vins des Vignerons Indépendants celebrates independent wine makers at the Palais des Expositions – Porte de Versailles in Paris, Pavillion 3, open 10am-8pm (until 7pm the last night). Entry €6 (includes your souvenir tasting glass). In addition to hundred of winemakers, there are also a few food stands, cart rental, and wine tasting workshops.

November 29 – 30
Discover a collaborative showcase by Valerie Evrard and Laurie Anderson, featuring original photographs, prints, and handcrafted leather accessories that highlight artistic individuality. Held at Audrey Noel‘s studio, 3 Passage Jean Nicot, 7th, from 10am to 9pm both days.

Through December 15
The Espace Monte-Cristo (9, Rue Monte-Cristo, 20th) presents Les Mondes Imaginaires, an immersive journey into fantastical realms through the works of artists like Eva Jospin, Tadashi Kawamata, and Agnès Varda. Encounter enchanted forests, mystical creatures, and explore surreal landscapes that blend nature and imagination. The artworks blend nature and fantasy, creating a unique experience that transports you to otherworldly dimensions, perfect for those seeking creative and imaginative adventures. Open Tuesday to Sunday, 11am-6pm. Free entry.

Through December 31
The Maison de Famille de Louis Vuitton (16, rue Louis Vuitton, Asnières-sur-Seine, closest metro Gabriel Péri) presents La Malle Courrier: Louis Vuitton and Sport, an exhibition celebrating the brand’s iconic trunks and their connection to sports. Discover vintage treasures like tennis racket covers and bowling bags, alongside custom trunks made for the 2024 Olympics. I’ve never actually visited this location, so not sure if it’s worth the trek, but for Vuitton fans, give it a try. Open Saturday and Sunday, 11am-5pm. Free entry.

Through January 5, 2025
The exhibition Lesage, 100 ans de mode et de décoration celebrates the centenary of the renowned embroidery house Lesage, known for its work with Chanel. The show highlights its exceptional craftsmanship, from vintage pieces like Balenciaga’s jacket (1962-1963) to modern creations such as Chanel’s 3D collection and collaborations with young designers. At the Gallery du 19M, 2 Place Skanderbeg, 19th arrondissement, open Wednesday to Friday 11am-6pm, weekends 11am-7pm. Free admission with reservation online (slots fill up fast!). It’s on the edge of the city along the périphérique; I recommend taking the bus 45 or tram 3b to get as close as possible (or a taxi if you can afford it).

Through January 5, 2025
The wonderful Musée Jacquemart-André (158 Boulevard Haussmann, 8th) celebrates its reopening after a full renovation with Masterpieces from the Borghese Gallery. For the first time, works by Caravaggio, Raphael, Bernini, and Botticelli travel from Rome to Paris. Highlights include Boy with a Basket of Fruit by Caravaggio and Lady with a Unicorn. Open daily 10am-6pm (until 10pm on Fridays). Tickets €18, reduced prices available. Don’t forget to visit the museum’s gorgeous salon du thé.

Through January 19, 2025
Don’t miss “We Are Here”, the free exposition of the world’s greatest street artists at the Petit Palais. Over 200 extra-large contemporary artworks and installations by artists like Shepard Fairey, Invader, Seth, Hush and Vhils are found mixed right into the permanent collection of the beautiful Petit Palais, the city’s Fine Arts Museum in the gardens of the Champs Elysées. Watch the video here to get an idea of what to expect.

Through January 19, 2025
The Musée d’Orsay (Esplanade Valéry Giscard d’Estaing, 7th) presents Gustave Caillebotte: Painting Men, an exhibition that highlights the often-overlooked works of this discreet impressionist (and my personal favorite!). Through 70 modern masterpieces, including his famous Les Raboteurs de Parquet (The Floor Scrapers) the show explores how Caillebotte captures the nonchalance and struggles of Parisian men in the late 19th century. Open Tuesday to Sunday, 9:30am-6pm (until 9:45pm on Thursdays). Tickets €16, reduced €13, free for under-26.

Through February 2, 2025
The Musée Bourdelle (18 Rue Antoine Bourdelle, 15th) presents Rodin & Bourdelle, a striking exhibition that brings together over 160 works from these two monumental sculptors. Rodin, a master of modern sculpture, and Bourdelle, his former student, share a deep connection with materials like marble and the unfinished aesthetic. The exhibition explores their shared influences, with pieces like La Main de Dieu by Rodin and La Main désespérée by Bourdelle. Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10am-6pm. Tickets €10, reduced €8. Great little café upstairs.

Through September 7, 2025
The Bibliothèque Nationale de France (5 Rue Vivienne, 2nd) presents Le monde pour horizon, a year-long, three-part exhibition showcasing rare maps, prints, manuscripts, photos, costumes, and stage jewelry. Highlights include Hokusai’s The Great Wave and Toulouse-Lautrec’s Divan Japonais poster. With rotating exhibits every four months, visitors can return for new discoveries throughout the year. Open Tuesday 10am-8pm, Wednesday to Sunday 10am-6pm. Tickets €10, reduced €8.

Through September 21, 2025
Musée d’Art et d’Histoire Louis-Senlecq (31 Grande Rue, L’Isle-Adam) presents Trois siècles à L’Isle-Adam, an exhibition showcasing the town’s history through paintings, sculptures, watercolors, engravings, vintage posters, postcards, and historical photographs. Visitors will explore L’Isle-Adam’s evolution from the 18th century to the mid-20th century. Highlights include works by artists like Jules Dupré, depictions of the Oise River landscapes, and a focus on the town’s industrial and leisure history. Open Tuesday to Sunday, 10am-6pm. €6.