September is coming to an end, and in Paris, when October begins to show, it’s not the time to stay cooped up at home! Whether you’re the type to plan every outing in advance or decide on a whim, the French capital always has something to offer you: must-visit spots and events waiting just for you. From Halloween costume parties, exhibitions, fairs, and various shows, it’s the perfect month to enjoy the City of Light in its autumnal orange hues. So, if you’re looking for an activity idea for the weekend to do with your friends or roommates, or to relax during the week after work, don’t wait any longer to check out the list of must-do activities that Colivys has picked out to brighten up your days and nights!
☕ Have a relaxing moment in one of Paris’ many cafés
Coffee lover? This one’s for you. Did you know that Paris seems to have nearly as many cafes as inhabitants? We’re barely exaggerating! These spots are an integral part of Parisian life, found on every square and street corner. As the weather cools down, what better idea than to head out and snuggle into a cozy corner table to sip a warm drink? We recommend a unique and historic spot: Café Verlet, a charming and old-fashioned place frozen in time not far from the Louvre museum, offering hot chocolates, coffees, teas, and delicious treats. If you enjoyed your experience there, you can purchase what you tasted since the café also houses a shop. Splendid. We also suggest visiting Shakespeare & Company, a unique café-bookstore with an ambiance reminiscent of the Anglo-Saxon world. A guaranteed change of scenery right in the heart of Paris.
🥷 Discover the world of Paris Manga & Sci-Fi Show
Manga enthusiast? We have an event you absolutely should not miss! The Paris Manga and Sci-Fi Show is back for a new edition and awaits you at the Parc des Expositions – Paris Nord Villepinte on September, 28th and 29th. For this occasion, head to the heart of the Hall 5 where a must-see pop culture exhibition awaits you. From Japanese and television culture to gaming, there’s something for everyone. Its schedule indeed brings together manga, film stars, TV series celebrities, cosplay competitions, giant karaoke, and video games. If you’re lucky, you might also attend conferences, showcases, and autograph sessions with your favorite YouTubers and actors. So don’t wait any longer and book your tickets fast!
🎡 Rediscover your childlike soul at the funfair
Let’s stay in Paris. To the delight of thrill-seekers, the Fête à Neuneu is back. From September 1st to October 15th, head over to Porte de la Muette for an extraordinary festive experience. It’s a trip down memory lane to the times of family vacations where you can relish moments filled with emotion, sharing, and pleasure. On the agenda: rides, games, entertainment, and food trucks to delight both young and adults all night long. A little history lesson: this funfair was established thanks to a decree by Napoleon in 1815. Back then, it took place in Neuilly-sur-Seine, which led the locals to affectionately dub it “La Fête à Neuneu”. Over the years, it has undergone various transformations, moving from horse-drawn rides to introducing electric rides as early as 1900. After several relocations, it finally settled in the Bois de Boulogne in the early 80s, while still retaining its iconic name.
🍇 Come and celebrate the Parisian grape harvest!
There are indeed vineyards in the capital! If you weren’t aware, the city of Paris invites you to the hill of Montmartre from October 11th to 15th to celebrate its heritage. For this 90th edition of the Paris Grape Harvest Festival, you’ll get a chance to discover the Parisian essence by visiting one of the most unique spots: the vineyards. A genuine open-air spectacle where you can indulge in a variety of delicious dishes, partake in lively dances, explore captivating art exhibitions, witness parades honoring the grape, and so much more. It’s a celebration of French gastronomy and local traditions set to music. So, mark these dates and prepare to see Paris from a fresh perspective, bridging tradition and modernity!
🍫 Discover the gourmet world of Salon du Chocolat
Heads up, chocoaholics! The must-attend Salon du Chocolat is making its comeback this year, from October 28th to November 1st, at the Parc des Expositions – Porte de Versailles. As a true sanctuary dedicated to the art of chocolate-making, France’s most grandiose festival offers you an immersive journey into the realm of cacao. On the agenda: breathtaking activities, tastings that’ll tantalize your taste buds, and workshops for anyone dreaming of becoming a chocolate artist, even just for a few hours. You’ll also have the opportunity to watch live demonstrations and admire the creations of masters in the field. Who knows, you might even get the chance to snap a photo with one of the many celebrities in attendance! A highlight towards the end of the expo is the fashion show, showcasing genuine contemporary chocolate masterpieces worn by models. Mark these dates and prepare to dive into a world where creativity and indulgence know no bounds!
🖼️ Dive in the enchantment of contemporary art
After a debut edition that was met with resounding success, the art world converges in Paris to celebrate the “Contemporary Art Week.” This year, in the fourth week of October, a new event at the Grand Palais Éphémère marks the beginning: Paris+ by Art Basel. For this 2nd edition, over a hundred gallery owners are expected, some with international acclaim! But that’s not all: Paris+ by Art Basel extends beyond the rooms and spaces of the Grand Palais Éphémère! The 2023 edition also features exhibitions of artworks that are free and open to everyone outside of the museum. Get ready to explore five other venues: the Jardin des Tuileries, Place Vendôme, the Chapelle des Petits-Augustins at the Beaux-Arts de Paris, the Palais d’Iéna, and the Parvis of the Institut de France. So, if you wish to immerse your imagination and eyes in all the poetry encapsulated in paintings and sculptures, book your tickets quickly!
We hope we’ve given you some ideas to make the most of this month of October. If you lean towards the sporty side, Paris is brimming with tennis courts for a tournament with your roommates, parks for relaxation, and concerts to satisfy your musical inclinations.
So, which of these ideas will you try out?
