It’s always a nice surprise when you notice the days getting longer. While this winter has been relatively mild, I still look forward to spring. It’s always a little shock (albeit a pleasant one) when you see the city become green again, and you remember that warmer days are on the horizon. There’s still a lot of uncertainty about whether we will go into a third lockdown or not, but fingers crossed with the increasing number of vaccinations this won’t be necessary. Nonetheless, here are some online and in-person events happening this March in Paris.

Above: 104 CENTQUATRE
Cinéma du Réel – March 12 – 21
After the 2020 edition was moved online, the 43rd edition of Cinéma du Réel is ready to go ahead this year no matter the circumstances. Whether we are in total or partial confinement, there is a curfew, or theaters are closed, you will still be able to access this festival of documentary cinema. There will be 20 short and full-length films from France, and 20 international—all premiering at the festival.

Effractions 2021 – Online – 25 Feb – 25 March
Organized by the Centre Pompidou’s Bibliothèque Publique d’Information, the 2nd edition of this festival dedicated to contemporary literature will be held online this year. The festival explores the links forged between contemporary literature and reality. This year, more than 35 authors will participate. There will be debates, roundtables, readings, performances, and workshops—all free of charge.
Dans les rues de Paris – Galerie Sakura – until March 20

Public museums and galleries may be closed, but commercial galleries have been allowed to remain open. Galerie Sakura’s exhibition Dans les rues de Paris presents street artists working in the city. And it features some of my favorites: Ardif, Carole B., In Love, Jef Aerosol, Jérôme Mesnager, Matt_tieu, Miss Tic, and more.
VR to Go – CENTQUATRE-PARIS – until March 29
If you’re in Paris, you can rent virtual reality headsets and discover a 360-degree program that highlights art, dance, cinema, and theater. Reserve your headset online, and either pick it up from CENTREQUATRE or have it delivered to your home.

Espaces Extérieurs – La REcyclerie – Weekends 10-17h30
If you’re looking to get a bit of fresh air, the outdoor spaces of La REcyclerie are now open for you to explore on weekends from 10h-17h30. Check out the urban farm and wander along the petite ceinture (the abandoned railway line). You can listen to their immersive balade sonore, view an external photo exhibition and play artisanal wooden games. You can also pick up some hot meals from Le Corner des Canaux à la REcyclerie.

Le Jardin de Sculptures – Musée Rodin
While the Musée Rodin may be closed, its outdoor sculpture garden has reopened! Immerse yourself in the great monuments of Auguste Rodin. Le Penseur (The Thinker), aux Bourgeois de Calais (The Burghers of Calais), Ugolin et ses enfants (Ugolino and his Sons), Orphée (Orpheus), La Méditation ou La Voix Intérieure (The Meditation or the Internal Voice), and other works by the artist await you in this open-air museum. The museum shop is also open.

Digital Days – Online – Various Dates
Maison & Objet has launched Digital Days, where three days each week will be dedicated to a particular theme. Each theme will feature new collections, digital showrooms, a selection of new products, and talks. From March 3-5 is Sustainable, from March 10-12 is Premium Design, and from March 17-19 is So French.
Related Links
- Check out where you can buy French art!
- Read more on visiting Paris in March.
- Can’t get to Paris? You can still experience its art online.
Written by Ali Postma for HiP Paris. Looking to travel? Check out Haven In for a fabulous vacation rental in Paris, France or Italy. Looking to rent long-term or buy in France or Italy? Ask us! We can connect you to our trusted providers for amazing service and rates.