The Night of Museums is making its return for its 22nd edition, this coming Saturday May 23, 2026. To mark the occasion, the Grand Palais will open its doors for an enchanting evening. This iconic Parisian venue invites visitors to enjoy a nocturnal stroll among the artworks currently on display.
Originally opened for the 1900 World's Fair, this historic monument stands opposite the Petit Palais and is just a short walk from the Champs-Élysées. It ranks among Paris’s most iconic landmarks, featuring a stunning nave that rises 45 meters high, along with several adjoining halls.
The Grand Palais consistently draws all kinds of visitors: after all, its programming knows how to captivate. Thanks to its vast spaces and numerous galleries, the Grand Palais hosts exhibitions, fairs, and trade shows — and even dazzling fashion shows!
This May, it's art lovers who are set to gather in Paris's 8th arrondissement to enjoy one of the city’s major cultural events on the Parisian calendar. The Night of Museums is a special evening dedicated to art, offering the opportunity to explore hundreds of museums and cultural venues for free. What more could you ask for?
A pop-up game library sets up at the Grand Palais for a weekend, creating an open play space for everyone. Designed to bring together kids and grown-ups around a playful experience, the program features a varied, accessible lineup: board games, dexterity games, building games, video games, and activities for the very young. The Seine Salon invites visitors—families, individuals, or groups of friends—to celebrate the Night of Museums by playing... all day Saturday and Sunday.
A convivial competition built around a curated selection of games from the Salon Seine. Participants are invited to register in groups of three. The event runs at the same times on Sunday, May 24.
The exhibition « Matisse. 1941-1954 » sheds light on the final phase of the artist’s creative journey, spanning from 1941 to 1954, through a showcase of unprecedented scale in France. It features paintings, drawings, cut-out gouaches, illustrated books, textiles, and stained glass—each reflecting this vibrant new burst of artistic energy. Never before had Matisse demonstrated such prolific diversity across mediums and techniques. This exceptional and free exhibition is a highlight of this year’s European Night of Museums.
A true icon of contemporary photography, Nan Goldin is now showcasing her work as a filmmaker. The Grand Palais hosts the first retrospective in France dedicated to her videos and slide shows, which the artist describes as “films made of photographs.” It’s an intimate journey into her life, friendships, loves, and struggles.
Explore the visionary world of Hilma af Klint (1862-1944), a pioneering abstract artist whose work remained largely hidden for decades. Her groundbreaking creations challenged the traditional timeline of modern art. From large-scale compositions to mysterious, secret pieces, her art masterfully blends colors, shapes, and symbols with a captivating daring.
This special evening is expected to draw many art enthusiasts, so it's recommended to arrive early to avoid the crowds and enjoy the experience of this nighttime event.
Night of Museums: a captivating evening filled with art, history, and cultural surprises. Visitors can explore renowned exhibits, enjoy special performances, and experience the city’s heritage like never before. Don't miss this unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of museums after hours.
Dates and Opening Time
On May 23, 2026
Location
Grand Palais
3 Avenue du Général Eisenhower
75008 Paris 8
Access
M° Champs-Elysées Clemenceau
Prices
Free
Official website
www.grandpalais.fr
