Paris in September is perfect for the “non-touristy” traveler. There are so many things to do off the tourist “beaten-path”. September in Paris vibrates with events and festivals Parisians themselves love. And you can experience them too, with the locals.
The tourist masses of high-summer subside in Paris during September. It’s “la rentrée” (the return), when Parisians arrive back in the city after their summer vacations. It’s back to school, work and daily life, Parisian style. The cafés, bistros, brasseries and restaurants anew overflow with locals. There’s a lovely “post-vacation” vibe; relaxed and happy.
Best of all, Paris in September is a lively time for new exhibition openings. Some of the best events and seasonal festivals, too, open their doors in September.
Most major events and festivals in September are not mainstream tourist attractions. They are, for the most part, destined for the locals. Many are free. And you’re invited …
- Celebrate seasonal festivals together with the locals
- Share the French passion for food, wine, art and culture
- Dance and party the Parisian way
- Go to a local sporting event
- Experience the city’s “green living” and open air festivals, plus a whole lot more …
Bref (in short), experience Paris the Parisian way.
To help you do exactly that, here’s our local’s list of 37 authentic things to do in Paris in September.
Take advantage of the late summer weather
Paris in September is a time for cooler late summer weather.
In the height of summer, Paris can get quite hot. It can be tiring if you’re doing a lot of walking and sightseeing around the city. But with late summer the weather cool off.
At the beginning of the month, the average temperature is 17.5°C (63.5°F). By the end of the month, it falls to 14.5°C (58.1°F). It’s mild and conducive to getting out and about in comfort.
Go for a random walk beyond the famous streets
In fact, September has perfect weather for Paris walks. Head outdoors for a random stroll. Do it Parisian style, like a flâneur. It’s one of our favorite things to do in Paris to get to know the city in a profound way.
Head off-the-beaten path, away from the main tourist attractions. You’ll discover the little secrets of the city.
Paris walks without a pre-planned itinerary are fabulous for meeting the locals. You get a real feel for how they live, too, by exploring the lesser known streets, local cafés and more.
Revel in the changing seasons | From Summer to Autumn
September also brings a change in the seasons across France. Late summer gently gives way to early Autumn (the Fall), with divine surprises.
For Parisians, the Fall begins with “la rentrée” (the return). La rentrée is when French kids go back to school. The summer vacation season ends. This year, la rentrée it falls on 4 September 2017.
But la rentrée isn’t the real or official end of summer in France. In fact, the Fall doesn’t come until the the Autumn Equinox. That happens on 21 September.
During this time of changing seasons, there are plenty of things to do in Paris. Here’s just a few, starting with …
The Paris Autumn Festival
For fans of theatre, music, dance, film and the visual arts, Paris is the place to be.
The Paris Autumn Festival is a multi-disciplinary festival lasting 3 months. It celebrates creativity in the performing arts.
Artists from France and around the world take part. You’ll get to see performances and exhibitions by both established and new talents.
More than 40 venues across Paris and it’s regions will host hundreds of cultural events.
See the Paris Autumn Festival’s official program by clicking here
Director Suzuki Matsuo is a special guest at this year’s festival. So too is the composer Irvine Arditti and the choreographer Jérôme Bel.
The Paris Autumn Festival kicks off on 13 September 2017. It runs until 21 December 2017, the official end of Autumn in France.
But before both late summer and Autumn end, you’ll want to dedicate some time exploring Paris’ gardens and parks.
Discover Paris parks and gardens
On one of your random Paris walks, you’ll no doubt stumble across countless gardens, parks and green spaces. There is a lot of diversity of flora and design to see.
Sit back on a public deckchair and watch the world go by. Or enjoy a gourmet food picnic. You can even picnic late into the evening until 3 September.
See the Paris parks and gardens open 24/7 this summer
The parks and gardens of Paris in September also welcome many music, culture and green living events and festivals. Here’s a quick look at some of them.
For Honey Lovers
For honey lovers, head to the “must see” Jardins du Luxembourg on the 23rd of 24th of September.
It’s the Fête du rucher au jardin du Luxembourg (The Bee Hive Festival). The locals celebrate the park’s historic bee hives and the much-sort-after honey goes up for sale.
Kiosquorama
Paris’“green living” movement is booming and you can get a taste of it at this eco-citizenship and arts festival.
There’s a full program of free events including concerts, installations, workshops and educational games. The festival occupies many of the city’s best gardens and parks.
Where: Multiple locations across Paris
When: 31 August – 1 October 2017
More info: http://kiosquorama.org/ (in French)
Fête des jardins (The Garden Festival)
This festival is tailor-made for nature lovers. Discover the city’s parks, gardens and special green spaces. Go for green walks and attend “green living” workshops. Immerse yourself in the city’s energised green movement.
Where: Jardin des Plantes
When: 26 – 27 September 2017
More info: http://www.jardindesplantes.net/fr/preparez-votre-visite/agenda/evenement/fete-jardins (in French)
Fête au Bois Boulogne
Make the most of the late summer days, a traditional Parisian festival that has been running for over 30 years. It’s a perfect event if you’re traveling with kids. They’ll love the merry-go-rounds, mini-roller coasters, swing carousels, and big wheel.
Where: Bois de Boulogne
When: 1 September – 17 October 2017
More info: https://en.parisinfo.com/paris-show-exhibition/135456/festival-at-the-bois-de-boulogne
And with all this outdoor and green living activity, you’ll be ready to …
Eat Well in Paris in September
Eating well must always be high on your list of top things to do in Paris. And there’s no shortage of delicious options, especially in September.
For gastronomes, foodies and anyone who loves a good feed, September is one of the most exciting times in the French culinary calendar.
The Harvesting Season
Late summer and early Autumn brings a boon in ripe food harvesting. Across France, its an occasion for harvest festivals.
Fresh food markets fill up with incredible varietals of apple, pears, quinces, blackberries, prunes, and figs. You’ll find chestnuts, walnuts alongside elderberries and Mirabelles. The varietals of tomato, radishes, carrots and parsnips are divine.
It’s a fabulous time to go gourmet food shopping
Les Vendanges
It’s also grape harvesting time. The highlight is the grape harvest (les vendanges) in the Loire Valley, Champagne, Alsace, Aquitaine and Provence regions.
Naturally, that makes for exceptional French wine you’ll and wine tastings
Hunting Season
Another food “revelation” in September throughout France is the beginning of hunting season. The hunting season in France is staggered, beginning in the South and then the north during September.
With the hunting season open, top French chefs create stunning new menus using the seasonal ingredients.
At the best restaurants and bistros in Paris, you’ll see gibier à plumes (wild birds) appear on menus mid-September. Later in the season, gibier à poils (wild hare, boar and deer) will appear.
September is a great month to spend time face-to-face with a Michelin Star chef, too
And all of this leads us to …
Awesome Food Festivals
La Fête de la gastronomie (The Gastronomy Festival)
La Fête de la gastronomie is a nationwide food festival with star events in Paris. For 3 days, the French indulge in what is their greatest passion, food and the fine art of eating.
From 22 to 24 September across France, choose from more than 10,500 gastronomic events. Celebrate with the locals the very best French produce and the art of cooking and eating well.
Read more about La Fête de la gastronomie in Paris by clicking here
When: 22 – 24 September 2017
Where: Across Paris and France
The Gourmet Food and Wine Fair
This is France’s biggest food and wine festival for professionals. But like Salon Resto Rapid, you can go as a member of the general public. It’s a fun way to experience even more about the French food industry and culinary innovation.
There’ll be more than 300 exhibitors presenting the latest products and services, including the gourmet foods and wines for which France is world famous.
And with all this replenishing goodness, you’ll have plenty of energy to …
When: 24 – 25 September 2017
Where: Porte de Versailles, Paris
More info: https://en.salon-gourmet-selection.com/
The International Street Food Festival
Street food in Paris is a relatively recent phenomena and one experiencing a real boom. Young French culinary entrepreneurs have turned their creative skills to develop a hot trend. With a flare for chic cuisine, classic street food is given “the French touch”.
At the International Street Food Festival you’ll find lots of food trucks proposing many delicious treats. Taste the day away then add your vote to select the champions of Parisian street food.
The whole experience is a window into how the French food scene is being transformed. It’s also a wonderful time to connect with people in an amazing setting while indulging in fun, delicious food.
When: 19 – 20 September 2017
Where: Parc des Expositions
More info: https://www.facebook.com/streetfoodinternationalfestival/
Street Food Temple
Similar to the International Street Food Festival, Street Food Temple celebrates Paris’ booming street food scene. This time, however, it’s in a more intimate space at the chic Carreau du Temple in the 3rd arrondissement.
In addition to fabulous “French style” street food, there’ll be a party atmosphere with DJs, film projections, and other fun activities.
When: 22 – 24 September 2017
Where: Le Carreau du Temple
More info: http://www.carreaudutemple.eu/food-temple
Salon Resto Rapid
Resto Rapid is in fact a professional trade fair. But that doesn’t mean you can’t go as a member of the general public.
It’s the take-out, snack food, and street food trade show of the year destined for restauranteurs and food professionals. And that’s what makes it quite fascinating, as a unique experience.
Go along with the 4000 plus professional visitors and hundreds of exhibitors. Discover the latest innovations in food and beverages, new technologies, and entrepreneurial ventures. In addition to tasting yummy treats, you’ll get to see how the French do it differently.
When: 19 – 20 September 2017
Where: Porte de Versailles, Paris
More info: http://www.salonrapidresto.com/ (in French)
And with all of this nourishment, you’ll have plenty of energy to see the …
New Art Exhibitions Opening in Paris in September
Paris is a city of seemingly endless numbers of art exhibitions. There really is something for just about every taste. Here we share just a few top exhibitions that will finish in September.
Imagine Van Gogh
An immersive digital exhibition of Van Gogh’s masterpieces.
Where: Grande Halle de La Villette, Parc de la Villette
When: ends 10 September 2017
More info: https://lavillette.com/en/evenement/imagine-van-gogh/
Travaux de Dames
An exhibition honouring female visionaries in the applied arts.
Where: Les Arts Décoratifs
When: ends 17 September
Peter the Great, a Tsar in France (1717)
In the Grand Trianon at Versailles, see this exhibition focused on the Russian Tsar’s diplomatic visit to Paris in 1717.
See more than 150 paintings, sculptures, decorative arts, tapestries, maps, medals, scientific instruments, books, and manuscripts.
Where: Château de Versailles
When: ends September 24 2017
More info: http://en.chateauversailles.fr/news/exhibitions/peter-great-tsar-france-1717
Portraits of Cézanne
At the world famous Musée d’Orsay, a fascinating look at portraits painted by Paul Cézanne.
Where: Musée d’Orsay
When: ends 24 September 2017
More info: http://bit.ly/2wLvSke
The Art of DC
This exhibition focuses on the dawn of superheroes in art.
Where: The Art Ludique Museum
When: ends 10 September 2017
More info: http://www.artludique.com/dccomics2.html
Essential Cultural Events
Drouot Fine Art Auctions
Drouot, the world’s oldest fine art auction in Paris, re-opens after the summer break on 15 September.
Go behind-the-scenes at Drouot with a certified art auctioneer.
Heritage Days (Journées du Patrimoine)
This is your chance to look inside famous addresses like Élysée Palace and the Luxembourg Palace. More than 17,000 of the country’s most fascinating buildings and sites open their doors to public view.
See France’s cultural heritage sites like most tourists never get to do. Go behind-the-scenes at famous cultural venues like the Grand Rex concert hall or France Télévision. Visit artist studios, historic schools and Paris’ “secret” metro stations.
Where: Across Paris and France
When: 16 – 17 September 2017
More info: http://bit.ly/1CHm8pD
Paris Design Week
Paris is a city of design. In September, that reality is supercharged with Paris Design Week. The city becomes “the destination” for designers, architects, artists and design enthusiasts from around the world.
Moving through the city, from one design district to another, immerse yourself in the very best in world design. Discover more than 150 venues and the work of thousands of design professionals.
Where: Across Paris, various venues
When: 8 – 16 September 2017
More info: https://www.maison-objet.com/en/paris-design-week
Paris Fashion Week
Spring 2018 Collections for Women
Paris is the mecca of fashionistas and fashion professionals the world over. And Paris Fashion Week is a pinnacle event not to be missed. It is, arguably, the greatest fashion show on earth.
The upcoming edition of Paris Fashion Week presents the Spring 2018 collections for women by the world’s top designers and fashion labels.
Paris Fashion Week (actually several times a year for different season releases) is pure grandeur, glamor and spectacle. For 8-10 days, editors, photographers, models, bloggers, and the world’s leading fashion designers descend on Paris.
All eyes fall on what Paris is wearing and you can be a part of it.
When: 26 September – 2 October 2017
Where: Across Paris
More info: https://wonderfultime.com/blog/2016/06/paris-fashion-week/
Music Events in Paris during September
Classique au Vert
Attend classical music concerts in the beautiful Parc Floral. Hear performances by musicians from around the world.
Where: Parc Floral de Paris
When: 5 August – 17 September
More info: https://classiqueauvert.paris.fr/
Jazz à La Villette
For jazz and swing fans, this is the festival of the year in Paris. It’s a fabulous outing for families with a kids’ version of the festival.
When:31 August – 13 September 2017
Where: Parc de la Villette
More info: http://www.jazzalavillette.com/
Maria by Callas at La Seine Musicale
At Paris’ iconic music venue, La Seine Musicale, see this exhibition dedicated to the life of Maria Callas.
The famous 20th century opera singer is featured in photographs, recording and memorabilia. Trace her turbulent life as one of opera’s most controversial yet adored divas.
When: 16 September – 14 December 2017
Where:La Seine Musicale, Ile Seguin / Boulogne Billancourt
More info: http://www.mariabycallas.com/
Sporting Event
La Parisienne
This one’s for the women visiting Paris. Take part in Europe’s biggest women only race.
Run 6.7 km (4.2 miles) through the city to support this charity race for breast cancer. Enjoy the fun, too;
Many participants will be wearing costumes.
When: 8 – 10 September 2017
Where: Starts at Trocodéro and finishes at Tour Eiffel, running through to Place de la Concorde and Hôtel des Invalides
More info: http://www.la-parisienne.net/ (in French)
Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe
Experience the excitement and elegance of the 96th edition of the Qatar Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, the world’s greatest horserace.
It attracts the best horses and jockeys from around the world. The ambiance is amazing. Mix with the rich and famous. Immerse yourself in the elite social life of Paris.
When: 30 September – 1 October 2017
Where: Chantilly Racecourse
More info: http://www.prixarcdetriomphe.com/?lang=en
And after you’ve burned calories, you’ll deserve some relax time … Or feel totally energised and ready to party.
Party on in Paris with the locals
Take full advantage of Paris’ lively party scene to connect with the locals in having fun. Here are a few options “off-the-beaten tourist path” that’ll give you an experience of how “hip” Parisians enjoy their time off.
Sundays at Rosa Bonheur sur Seine
The River Seine is a booming hotspot for Paris nightlife, including chic floating bars like Rosa Bonheur sur Seine.
Every Sunday through September, join the local crowds from 7:30pm to midnight for DJ music, dance and warm socialising.
When: throughout September 2017
Where: Port des Invalides, Quai d’Orsay, 75007 Paris
More info: http://rosabonheur.fr/
Ground Control
In recent years, Paris has seen a flourish of hip pop-up bars in the summer months. Ground Control is one of the best.
A hip transport-themed pop-up bar, Ground Control in a secret SNCF (the public railway company) space within easy walking distance from Gare de Lyon.
Ground Control has 2500 square meters of terrace and features top-notch DJ sets, kitchen gardens and gardening workshops, plus a solarium! There’s also a producer’s market and plenty of good food (old buses converted into food trucks) and drink.
When: throughout September 2017
Where: 81 Rue du Charolais, 75012 Paris
More info: http://www.groundcontrolparis.com/
88 Ménilmontant
Another very cool pop-up venue set up in a former music and artistic squat.
It features an enormous terrace with concerts, markets and dancing. There are even sporting activities, massages and hula-hooping!
When: throughout September 2017
Where: 88 Rue de Ménilmontant, 75020 Paris
More info: https://www.facebook.com/88menilmontant/
Summer House
The Summer House is another ephemeral location for late summer fun in Paris. It’s in the lush gardens of the Mona Bismark American Center. Enjoy live music, American fusion food, and “prohibition” themed cocktails.
When: throughout September 2017
Where: 34 Avenue de New York, 75116 Paris
More info: https://www.summerhouse.fr/
Dance Parties
Techno Parade
Techno Parade is a massive outdoor festival. It’s the largest gathering of techno fans in Europe. And with that, an awesome opportunity to have a lot of fun, Parisian style.
The event starts at Port Royal and weaves its way through the city to Place de la République.
Enjoy dancing with thousands of locals while you sightsee!
Techno Parade brings together top-notch DJs and performers from all over France and Europe. More than 150 musicians and professional dancers take part. There’ll also be more than 20 parade floats.
When: 23 September 2017
Where: Through Paris streets (itinerary not yet available)
More info: http://www.technoparade.fr/english/
Immersive Show and Party
Party Like Gatsby: The Order of the Gentleman
Dress up in your finest attire to Party Like Gatsby. Lose yourself in a fascinating world of the roaring twenties.
The Order of the Gentleman is an immersive show and party that’s been igniting the nightlife of European cities since 2013. And in September, it’s in Paris.
When: 8 September 2017
Where: Mad Mansion Paris (Cabaret Sauvage)
More info: https://www.partylikegatsby.eu/
And that raps up our list of 37 cool and local things to do in Paris in September. Enjoy!
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