Fete des Rois

6 January 2011

If you’re in Paris on 6 January, you’ll find ‘Galettes des Rois’ king cakes - in the patisseries. These traditional Epiphany cakes celebrate the Kings visiting the newborn Christ. Made from puff pastry and almond flavoured paste, each galette contains a tiny charm (une feve).

With family and friends gathered, the youngest person hides beneath the table and decides who should have each slice. The person whose slice contains the ‘feve’ becomes King or Queen for the day and wears a paper golden crown.

Quai St-Bernard

June 2011

Spectactular mid-summer fireworks display.

Paris Plage

21 July - 21 August 2011

Each summer, on the Right Bank near the Pont Neuf, you will find a stretch of man-made sandy beach, complete with palm trees and parasols for relaxing sunbathing. Petanque, volleyball and entertainment are available plus a swimming pool for cooling down in the summer heat.

Champs Elysees

24 July 2011 

The final stretch of the Tour de France is along the Champs Elysees, together with the cyclists’ lap of honour.  

Grape Harvest, Montmartre

October 2011 

Once an important vine-growing area, just 1,500 bottles of Clos Montmartre wine are now produced each year. The festival celebrating its arrival includes a Bacchus parade, musicians, fireworks, regional produce stalls and of course wine-tastings. The festival is normally attended by the Mayor of Paris. As for the 1,500 bottles of wine, they are auctioned and the proceeds donated to local charities.

Night of the Horse, Porte de Versailles

December 2011

As part of the annual horse show, the Nuit du Cheval is a colourful show with stunts, team riding and displays.

Please check precise details and dates with event organisers before making your holiday and travel arrangements.