Paris in August is known as a calm time, with locals emptying out of the city and scattering to summer holiday destinations around the world. There are still plenty of events to accommodate those who stick around at this time of year. August is also a great month to visit the many fabulous locations that are just a day trip away from Paris.
Paris Weather in August
Paris weather is still variable as always. The average temperature ranges from 16 degrees Celsius for low temperatures and 25 degrees Celsius for the average high temperature. Even though it’s still one of the hottest times of the year, pack a light jacket and umbrella. These last few weeks have been cold and rainy.
Usually in August, the sunny weather and long daylight hours mean it’s a great time to hear live music at one of the many outdoor music festivals. It is still high tourist season with long lines at the most popular attractions. But with fewer locals, it’s a great time to explore the off the beaten path neighborhoods. If you plan on staying in town this August, here are some of the best things to do!
Events
Paris Plages
This is one of the best places to cool off during the late summer heat waves. During the summer months, Paris transforms into a seaside resort. Grab your sun cream. Enjoy sunny days and warm weather on the banks of the Seine and Canal de l’Ourcq (near Parc de la Villette). These Paris “beaches” are adorned with palm trees and offer deck chairs for relaxation near the water. Activities at the Seine river location include canoeing, kayaking, and pétanque. At Bassin de la Villette, there’s a merry-go-round for kids, water activities, a beach club, trampoline, and more. For additional details, visit the Paris Tourist Office’s website.
Cinema en Plein Air – Until August 20
This annual open-air cinema showcases classic and modern film hits with French subtitles once the sky darkens enough (around 8:30 pm). Food is available for purchase on-site, or you can pack a picnic. The best part? It’s free!
Été du Canal – Until August 6
The Canal de l’Ourcq celebrates summer with a vibrant program of dance, concerts, water activities including boat cruises, film screenings, and street art. Located in the trendy 19th Arrondissement, the Canal de L’Ourcq is a must-visit part of the Parisian canal network.
Paris Jazz Festival – Until September 7
This beloved event combines melodious tunes with the beauty of nature until the first week of September. Held at Parc Floral in Paris, the festival attracts 120,000 spectators each edition, featuring major players in the jazz scene along with an eclectic lineup.
Opera en Plein Air – Until September 24
At these outdoor classical music concerts, a renowned director stages a famous opera from the repertoire at beloved sites like Château de Vincennes, Domaine de Sceaux, Château de Fontainebleau, and the Hôtel National des Invalides in the heart of Paris.
Rock en Seine Festival- August 23-27, 2023
This popular annual event takes place at Domaine National de Saint-Cloud and will include Billie Eilish, Placebo, The Chemical Brothers, Florence and the Machine as well as the Strokes. This year’s celebration of the 20th anniversary of the Festival is one you won’t want to miss.
Exhibitions
Had enough of outdoor activities or want to escape rainy days? Here are some must see exhibits during your August visit.
The “Divine” Sarah Bernhardt (1844-1923) – Petit Palais, until August 27, 2023
This exhibition centers on the actress and artist, showcasing her best portraits by Georges Clairin and several of her sculptures. With over 600 works, the exhibition offers a comprehensive journey through Sarah Bernhardt’s life and career.
Senghor et les Arts – Musée du Quai Branly, until November 12, 2023
The exhibition “Reimagining Universalism” explores the cultural reflections and achievements of Léopold Sédar Senghor (1909-2001), the intellectual and statesman from Senegal. Known for pioneering Négritude, Senghor aimed to unite traditions and engage in the “dialogue of culture.” The exhibition delves into Senegalese cultural policy and diplomacy, celebrating its major achievements in visual and performing arts.
Naples in Paris: Masterpieces from the Museo di Capodimont – Louvre Museum, ends January 8, 2024
Michelangelo and Raphael’s masterpieces, never seen outside of Naples before, are displayed in the glamorous Grande Galerie, the Salle de la Chapelle, and the Salle de l’Horloge. A rare opportunity to witness these iconic works.
Moï Ver – Ci-Contre – Centre Pompidou, until August 28, 2023
This retrospective honors the forgotten genius, Moï Ver (1904-1995), an early master of photographic montage. The exhibition showcases over 300 photographs, paintings, drawings, and prints, many of which have never been displayed before.
Picasso Celebration: The Collection in a New Light – Musée Picasso, until August 27, 2023
In honor of the 50th anniversary of Pablo Picasso’s death, the exhibition is led by British designer Paul Smith, who adds a fresh perspective to the museum’s collection, highlighting the best of Picasso’s works.
Philippe Starck – Paris is Pataphysique – Musée Carnavalet, until August 27, 2023
This exhibition explores the fascinating link between Paris and Philippe Starck, the renowned designer. Pataphysique, described as the “science of imaginary solutions,” plays a prominent role in the display, as Starck’s inspiration from Paris has influenced his designs across various domains.
RELATED LINKS:
- Who would of thought that cold drinks could be so controversial? Read about ice cold drinks in Paris.
- No cold drink? No problem. Have an ice cream instead!
- Enjoy the late summer weather on the best terraces in Paris.
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