Festival Paris l'été

Festival Paris l'été: Performing Arts at the Heart of Parisian Summer

Since 1990, Festival Paris l'été has transformed the capital into a vast open-air theater. Every year, from mid-July to early August, dance, theater, circus, music, and performances take over the most beautiful Parisian sites: the Nef du Grand Palais, the Jardins des Tuileries, the Palais de la Porte Dorée, the Bois de Vincennes, the Monnaie de Paris, and many other emblematic venues.

A History of Over Thirty Years

Founded in 1990 by Patrice Martinet at the initiative of the Minister of Culture Jack Lang, the festival was originally called Paris Quartier d'Été. In 2017, under the leadership of Laurence de Magalhaes and Stéphane Ricordel, it was renamed Festival Paris l'été, marking a renewal in its programming and visual identity. Since 2025, Marie Lenoir and Thomas Quillardet have been the artistic directors of the festival.

A Multidisciplinary and Accessible Program

Each year, the program brings together about sixty artistic offerings—performances of contemporary dance, circus, street theater, music, cabaret, drag, and performances—in over fifteen locations in the Île-de-France region. The festival stands out for its commitment to making culture accessible: many events are free, and shows often take place outdoors, in exceptional settings.

Internationally Renowned Artists

Throughout its editions, Festival Paris l'été has hosted major artists from the contemporary scene: Lia Rodrigues, Gisèle Vienne, Chloé Moglia, Silvia Gribaudi, Marina Gomes, Josépha Madoki, and many others. The festival offers a unique showcase for the most inventive and inclusive artistic forms of performing arts.

A Festival Rooted in the City

Paris l'été is distinguished by its strong territorial anchoring. The festival extends beyond Paris proper, taking over venues in Seine-Saint-Denis, Val-de-Marne, and even the regional estate of Villarceaux. This geographical spread reflects the festival's desire to reach a broad and diverse audience, beyond the usual cultural attendees.