SUMMER IN PARIS

     Although Paris summers are known for being quite warm, there are various unique events held in the city which make it worth the visit.

Bastille Day--La Fete Nationale

July 14, 2013
     Bastille Day (known as La Fete Nationale in France) marks the day in 1789 in which the French people stormed the Bastille prison, thus beginning the French Revolution.  This is a well-celebrated French national holiday.

     During the day, there is a military parade down the Champs-Elysees.  This is a rather elaborate affair, starting at the Arc de Triomphe and is complete with marching and mounted military units, bands, military and civil choirs, and singers singing classic French patriot songs.

     La Marseillaise, the National Anthem of France, is played with great reverence. The parade often ends with a popular parachute display from the French Armed Forces.

    At night, the French set off an impressive fireworks display around the Eiffel tower.  The Paris Visitor's Bureau  states that the fireworks will begin around 11:00 p.m. this year.  The public can view the display from the Champs de Mars and Trocadero.


                                                     
                                             Eiffel Tower Fireworks, Wikipedia  

Paris Plages

July 20 to August 20, 2013
     The "Paris Beach" is a rather unique event run by the mayor's office to provide relief to Parisians during the hot summer.  It has proved to be quite popular for Parisians who cannot escape to the seaside!

     During this event, roads along the river Seine are transformed into artificial beaches, complete with sand, palm trees, umbrellas, and beach side cafes.  They recently added a floating swimming pool and a ferry to serve as a shuttle between the two river banks.

     This is a regular summer event in Paris , and a great opportunity to cool off and mingle with the locals!

                                                     
                                                       Paris Plages, Wikipedia

La Villette Open-Air Cinema

Parc de la Villette, 19th arrondissment
July 24 through August 28, 2013

     This is a another summer favorite held  at the Parc de la Villette in northern Paris.  At least one film is shown each evening, and many are in English.  Parisians bring their picnic baskets, blankets, and folding chairs to view both classic and recent hit movies.

     Showings begin at sundown, and are mostly free.  For those without folding chairs or blankets, they are available there to rent.

                                                           
                                                     Cinema en Plein Air Poster  

Summer Fashion Sales

June 29, 2013 through July 30, 2013

     Paris is famous for its fabulous summer sales which can reach discounts as high as 75%.  Superb discounts can be found on clothes, shoes, bags, watches, jewelry, and luggage at boutiques and department stores.

     Look for the "Soldes" signs!

                                           
                                                              Sales Signs in Paris