Culture & Interest

Family-Friendly Summer Events & Activities in Paris, France 

June 25, 2025
Family-Friendly Summer Events & Activities in Paris, France 

Paris truly comes alive in the summer with a plethora of family-friendly events and activities, transforming its iconic landmarks and hidden gems into vibrant playgrounds for all ages. As the days grow long and the city basks in golden sunshine, families can dive into unique outdoor experiences, from relaxing on urban beaches along the Seine to witnessing spectacular fireworks illuminate the Eiffel Tower. Beyond the world-renowned museums and historical sites, Paris embraces a festive summer spirit with open-air concerts, movie screenings under the stars, and lively cultural celebrations. Whether you’re seeking active adventures, educational explorations, or simply a charming Parisian picnic, there’s something to captivate every member of your family. 

Major Summer Festivals & Events

  • Paris Plages (Paris Beaches): The city transforms parts of the Seine riverbanks and the Bassin de la Villette into urban beaches. This year, it’s taking on a Brazilian theme!
  • Bastille Day (Fête Nationale): France’s national holiday is celebrated with grand flair in Paris.
    • Date: Monday, July 14, 2025.
    • Activities: Expect a military parade on the Champs-Élysées in the morning, and a spectacular fireworks display from the Eiffel Tower in the evening (usually around 11:00 PM). There are often public dances (Bals des Pompiers – Firemen’s Balls) the night before.
    • Summary: A truly iconic Parisian experience, perfect for families to witness national pride and an incredible fireworks show. Be prepared for large crowds.
    • Link (General Information): Activities Paris July 2025: Ultimate Guide to Outings & Events
  • Festival Paris l’Été: A multidisciplinary festival with dance, theater, circus performances, and concerts in various Parisian parks and monuments.
  • L’Été du Canal, l’Ourcq en Fête: The banks of the Ourcq canal come alive with activities.
  • Carnaval Tropical: A colorful and lively parade celebrating tropical cultures.

Summer Concerts & Music Festivals

  • Fête de la Musique (Music Festival): A city-wide open-air party where music of all genres fills the streets.
    • Date: Saturday, June 21, 2025.
    • Summary: Free concerts and performances take place on every corner, from professional stages to impromptu street musicians. It’s a fantastic way to experience Parisian culture and music.
    • Link: summer events in Paris 2025 – Memories France
  • Festival FNAC Live: Free concerts hosted by the FNAC megastore.
    • Dates: July 2-4, 2025.
    • Time: Starts at 5:00 PM.
    • Location: Likely on the Parvis de l’Hôtel de Ville (City Hall Square).
    • Summary: Three days of free concerts featuring around twenty different acts.
    • Link: summer events in Paris 2025 – Memories France
  • Pestacles (Children’s Music Festival):
  • Musical Summer at Jardin d’Acclimatation: Various musical groups perform at this popular family park.

Summer Movies (Outdoor Cinema)

Beyond the Typical Art Museum: Other Attractions & Activities for Families

Parks, Gardens & Playgrounds

  • Jardin du Luxembourg (Luxembourg Gardens):
    • Features: Beautiful formal gardens, playgrounds, pony rides, puppet shows, and the iconic activity of sailing vintage toy sailboats on the Grand Bassin.
    • Summary: A true gem for families, offering plenty of space to run, relax, and play.
    • Link: Jardin du Luxembourg – Paris je t’aime
  • Jardin d’Acclimatation: An amusement park within the Bois de Boulogne.
    • Features: Over 40 family-fun attractions, including rollercoasters and rides, a large aviary, and 45-acre gardens. Also features a paddling pool and beach area in summer.
    • Summary: An ideal family-friendly destination for thrill-seekers and those looking to enjoy rides and animals.
    • Link: Jardin d’Acclimatation
  • Parc de la Villette: A large, modern park known for its unique red “folies” (architectural structures), themed gardens, and cultural institutions.
    • Features: Home to the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie (science museum), outdoor art installations, and various play areas.
    • Freestyle 2025 Festival: (May 31 – June 1, 2025) A free street culture festival with fun and sporting activities for youngsters, including workshops (costumes, instrument making, screenprinting, graffiti) and a “Monster Parade.”
    • Summary: Offers a blend of interactive museums, open spaces, and unique architecture.
    • Link (Freestyle Festival for kids): Freestyle 2025 is also for kids: free activities for young people at La Villette – Sortiraparis.com
  • Parc Zoologique de Paris (Vincennes Zoo): Home to over 3,000 animals across five biozones.
  • Jardin des Tuileries (Tuileries Gardens): Located between the Louvre and Place de la Concorde.
    • Features: Playgrounds, statues, fountains, and the traditional “Petits Bateaux” (small sailboats) for rent on the Grand Bassin. The Fête des Tuileries (funfair) usually takes place here over the summer.
    • Fête des Tuileries: A traditional funfair with rides and attractions.
      • Dates: June 21 to August 24, 2025.
    • Summary: A classic Parisian garden perfect for post-museum playtime and a charming historical amusement park.
    • Link (Fête des Tuileries): Paris Plage 2025 : baignades, animations, programme – JDS (scroll down to “Fête des Tuileries”)

Museums & Cultural Experiences for Kids

  • Musée de la Magie (Museum of Magic): A quirky and fun museum dedicated to the art of magic, with automata and illusions.
  • Musée des Arts Forains (Fairground Arts Museum): An enchanting private museum filled with antique fairground rides and attractions. Book in advance for guided tours.
  • Atelier Rodin: From April 5 to August 31, 2025, the Rodin Museum offers the “Atelier Rodin” to introduce children to the sculptor’s work through hands-on activities.
  • Puppet Shows: Paris has a strong tradition of puppet shows.
    • Théâtre de Guignol des Champs-Elysées: A Parisian institution.
    • Théâtre de Marionnettes in Parc Montsouris: Another pleasant puppet theatre.
    • Summary: Classic and contemporary puppet shows are a delightful option for younger children.
    • Link: Shows for kids and family in Paris – Paris je t’aime

Always check official websites for the most up-to-date details.

Contact Paris Property Group to learn more about buying or selling property in Paris or to be introduced to a trusted mortgage professional.