Paris events

An annual five-week festival of quality French and international jazz, blues, R&B, soul, funk, flamenco and world music. Where: various venues in Seine-St-Denis.

Annually from March until April

For one night, museums open their doors late for special events and entertainment. Where: all over France

Annually mid May

Outrageous floats and flamboyant costumes parade towards Bastille; then there’s an official fête and various club and nightlife events. Where: various venues in Paris.

Late June

The ultimate cycling endurance test climaxes after some 3,600 kilometres (2,200 mi). Blink and you’ll miss the winner flying past the finishing line on the Champs-Elysées. Where: Av des Champs-Elysées, 8th.

Annually in July

Three days, four stages, and one world-class line-up of rock groups. Where: Domaine National de St-Cloud.

Annually late August

Culture by moonlight: galleries and museums host special after-dark installations, and swimming pools, bars and clubs stay open late into the night. Where: various venues.

Annually in October

The City of Light dazzles with festive holiday illuminations, choirs and concerts. Enjoy the temporary ice skating rinks and visit the many Christmas markets.

Annually in December

Perhaps the world’s most picturesque marathon, with 35,000 runners heading from the Champs-Elysées along the Right Bank to the Bois de Vincennes, and back along the Left Bank to the Bois de Boulogne. Where: Av des Champs-Elysées, 8th, to av Foch, 16th

Annually early April

The Grand Slam tournament, whose tricky clay courts have been the downfall of many champions, always attracts a selection of showbiz stars. Where: Stade Roland-Garros, 2 av Gordon-Bennett, 16th

Annually late May-early June

Two months of free jazz weekends at the Parc Floral. Where: Parc Floral de Paris, Bois de Vincennes, 12th.

Annually in June and July

Palm trees, huts, hammocks and tonnes of fine sand on both banks of the Seine bring a seaside vibe to the city. Where: Pont des Arts to Pont de Sully

Annually from mid July until mid August

A major annual festival of challenging contemporary theatre, dance and modern opera, intent on bringing non-Western culture into the French consciousness. Where: various venues.

Annually mid September until late December

Paris presents its haute couture and prêt-à-porter collections at a variety of venues across town, but to invited guests only. Where: various venues.

Annually in March, July, October and January

Jubilant crowds swarm along the Champs-Elysées letting off bangers. Nightclubs and restaurants hold expensive New Year’s Eve soirées. And on New Year’s Day the Grande Parade de Paris brings floats, bands and dancers.

Annually New Year’s Eve/New Year’s Day