History - activities

History of Paris Carnival: a medieval tradition still celebrated in the capital

Colors, music, costumes, food: the Carnaval de Paris is a big party, taking place this year on February 11, 2024. By the way, do you know the history of Carnival?

The Freemasonry Museum: an organization steeped in history and mystery

Discover the influence of Freemasonry on French society and history over the centuries, at the heart of the Grand Orient de France. Learn all about the mysteries of this organization!

Why is St. Nicholas Day celebrated on December 6? Origin and history of this holiday

If December is the time of dreams for all little children, thanks to the arrival of Santa Claus, the beginning of the month is marked by Saint-Nicolas. Celebrated every December 6, this holiday is above all a tradition scrupulously respected in several French regions such as Lorraine and Alsace. So, who is Saint-Nicolas, and what is the history of this holiday? We explain.

What is Hanukkah? History and meaning of the Jewish Festival of Lights

From December 7 to 15, Jews celebrate the Festival of Lights: Hanukkah. Where does this festival come from and what does it mean? We tell you.

Attend the changeover of the Garde Républicaine every first Tuesday of the month in front of the Élysée Palace.

A tradition abandoned 27 years ago is back this Tuesday, November 7, 2023. At 9 a.m., watch the free changing of the Republican Guard in front of the Élysée Palace, every first Tuesday of the month.

Why is November 11 a public holiday in France? History and origins

Every year, France celebrates November 11th with a series of tributes and commemorations. But do you know why this historic date is a national holiday? We tell you.

History and traditions: behind the scenes of Christmas window displays in Paris

Christmas window displays in Paris are a veritable part of our heritage! Every year during the festive season, passers-by flock to the windows to admire the decorations and displays designed to enchant young and old alike.

Why is November 1st a public holiday? History and origins of All Saints' Day

In France, as in many other countries, November 1st is a public holiday. But do you know exactly why All Saints' Day is a holiday, and what its history and origins are? We tell you all about it.

Sissi & Moi by Frauke Finsterwalder with Susanne Wolff and Sandra Hüller: trailer

Sissi & Moi, the new film by Frauke Finsterwalder starring Susanne Wolff and Sandra Hüller, opens in cinemas on October 25, 2023.

Vikings set up camp just outside Paris at Château de la Madeleine

Watch out for Vikings if you're hanging around the Chevreuse Valley this weekend! To close the Rendez-vous de la Madeleine, they're setting up camp at the foot of the château, and awaiting you and your family for a whole host of free activities!

Fête de la Science: discover the origins of this scientific event for the whole family

The Fête de la Science is the not-to-be-missed October event for fans of scientific experiments and new knowledge! Discover the history of this event, born in the capital!

Le Chevalier du Ciel exhibition at the Musée de l'Ordre de la Libération - our photos

Immerse yourself in the captivating life of the Compagnon de la Libération, Édouard Corniglion-Molinier, thanks to the exhibition "Le Chevalier du ciel" at the Musée de l'Ordre de la Libération in Paris from October 2, 2023 to February 4, 2024. Rediscover this aviation hero, outstanding pilot, daring adventurer and key player in the French Resistance.

Heritage Days: history, origins and dates 2024 of this cultural event

The European Heritage Days return on Saturday and Sunday, September 21 and 22, 2024, with a new theme. Although the cultural event is celebrating its 41st edition this year, few people actually know the origins of this essential back-to-school event. We'd like to tell you about the history of the Journées du Patrimoine, created in 1984 by the French Ministry of Culture.

Les secrets de la princesse de Cadignan: historical romance with Arielle Dombasle and Julie Depardieu

"Les secrets de la Princesse de Cadignan", a film by Arielle Dombasle, features a diabolical seductress (Arielle Dombasle herself), finally finding true, true love. A historical romance to be discovered in cinemas from September 13, 2023.

Did you know? The Gloriette de Buffon is the oldest metal structure in Paris.

In the heart of Paris's 5th arrondissement, the Jardin des Plantes is home to the mysterious and historic Gloriette de Buffon, dating from 1786. Discover a hidden treasure.

Did you know? The Eiffel Tower has seen many parachute jumps, the first dating back to 1912.

Parachuting from the Eiffel Tower is not the best idea, as history has amply demonstrated. The first man to attempt the feat didn't survive, in 1912, and he's far from the only one, given the dangerous nature of the act, which is obviously forbidden.

Il Boemo: Vojtěch Dyk in Petr Václav's film with Elena Radonicich and Barbara Ronchi

Il Boemo features the forgotten composer Josef Myslivecek. Featuring Vojtěch Dyk, the film follows his rise to fame in Venice in 1764 thanks to an opera that would turn his career upside down.

Did you know? France's roads start at ground zero, in front of Notre-Dame de Paris.

Paris' long history gives it a number of advantages, not least that of being the starting point for all the roads in France. It has been the country's capital for centuries, and is home to ground zero, located on the forecourt of Notre-Dame Cathedral.

Did you know? Where does the name Champs-Elysées come from?

Do you know the origin of the name of the Champs-Elysées, the famous Parisian avenue? Created in 1674 by André le Nôtre and officially named in 1698, this royal thoroughfare takes its name from Greek mythology, we tell you.

Did you know? Where does the name Seine come from?

Have you ever wondered about the origins of the Seine's name? Originating from the commune of Sources-Seine in Burgundy, this river is named after a Celtic goddess, Sequana. We tell you all about its history and legend.