đ What to do in Paris in October 2026?
đ What to Do in Paris in October 2026? Must-See Events and Activities
Paris transforms in October: the trees take on golden hues, museums host new exhibitions, and major cultural events bring the capital to life. From film festivals and international trade shows to Studio Ghibli-themed events and Halloween celebrations, visitors have a wide range of options to choose from.
Whether youâre planning a romantic weekend, a family vacation, or a cultural getaway, Paris offers experiences to suit every taste. Discover our selection of events and activities to plan for October 2026, along with our tips for making the most of the capital this fall.
đ 1. Immerse Yourself in the World of Studio Ghibli in Paris
đĄ Visit the Maison Ghibli pop-up store
Announced dates: October 17, 2026, through January 3, 2027.
Fans of Hayao Miyazaki have an excellent reason to visit Paris this fall: the Maison Ghibli pop-up store. Located at 15 rue des Halles in the 1st arrondissement, it features products inspired by the films of the famous Japanese studio.
Youâll find plush toys, figurines, accessories, Japanese tableware, and decorative items inspired by My Neighbor Totoro, Spirited Away, Howlâs Moving Castle, and Kikiâs Delivery Service. This spot will appeal to collectors, fans of Japanese animation, and families looking to bring home a unique souvenir from their trip.
To plan your visit, check out our article on the Ghibli Museum in Paris and the reopening of its official store.
đŹ Discover the MĂ©tamorphose Film Festival
Announced dates: October 17â25, 2026.
The MusĂ©e du Quai Branly â Jacques Chirac is hosting the MĂ©tamorphose Festival, dedicated to films for young audiences. The program highlights fantastical stories, imaginary creatures, and films from different cultures.
Animated films such as *Ponyo on the Cliff* and *The Boy and the Heron* are among those announced. The screenings offer a chance to rediscover the magic of Studio Ghibli on the big screen during the All Saintsâ Day school break.
The museum is located at 37 Quai Branly, in the 7th arrondissement. Check the official program to confirm showtimes, featured films, and booking details.
đ Attend the Ghibli screenings at the Maison de la Culture du Japon
Announced dates: October 24â31, 2026, depending on the screening.
The Japanese Cultural Center in Paris is also hosting screenings of Japanese animated films during the school break. Fans will be able to enjoy several works by Hayao Miyazaki and rediscover the richness of Japanese animated cinema.
Among the announced films are *The Wind Rises*, *Kikiâs Delivery Service*, and *Spirited Away*. The announced ticket price is âŹ3 per screening. Check the official schedule to confirm dates, times, and availability.
đź 2. Attend Paris Games Week
Announced dates: October 22â25, 2026.
Paris Games Week returns to Paris Expo Porte de Versailles for an event dedicated to video games and gaming culture. The event attracts gamers, families, esports enthusiasts, and visitors curious to discover the latest in the industry.
Youâll be able to try out games, explore interactive experiences, and watch competitions. This event is a great outing for video game fans looking to discover the latest trends.
The event takes place in the 15th arrondissement. Visit the official website for opening hours, ticket prices, and booking information.
đš 3. Explore Art Basel Paris at the Grand Palais
Announced dates: October 23â25, 2026.
Contemporary art lovers can explore Art Basel Paris at the Grand Palais. This international art fair brings together galleries from many countries and showcases works by modern and contemporary artists.
The event offers a chance to explore different artistic trends, discover new talent, and admire works presented by renowned galleries. It attracts both collectors and art lovers looking to explore contemporary art.
The Grand Palais is located on Avenue Winston-Churchill in the 8th arrondissement. Check the official website for opening hours and admission information.
đ« 4. Indulge at the Salon du Chocolat et de la PĂątisserie
Announced dates: October 28âNovember 1, 2026.
The Salon du Chocolat et de la PĂątisserie returns to Paris Expo Porte de Versailles for several days dedicated to culinary delights. Chocolatiers, pastry chefs, artisans, and professionals will showcase their creations and share their expertise with the public.
Visitors can discover chocolate specialties, attend cooking demonstrations, and admire original creations. This event is perfect for food lovers, gastronomy enthusiasts, and families looking for something to do during the All Saintsâ Day school break.
Visit the fairâs official website for opening hours, ticket prices, and booking information.
đ 5. Celebrate Halloween with the YĆkai Matsuri Festival
Announced date: Saturday, October 31, 2026.
For Halloween, the YĆkai Matsuri festival offers an experience inspired by supernatural creatures and Japanese folklore. Held at La Petite Halle in the 19th arrondissement, this event combines Japanese culture, costumes, entertainment, and festivities.
The announced program includes workshops, performances, Japanese stalls, and activities centered around yĆkaiâthe spirits and creatures from Japanese legends. A costume contest is also planned.
This event will appeal to fans of Japanese culture and visitors looking to celebrate Halloween in a unique setting. Be sure to check prices, hours, and admission requirements before you go.
đ„ 6. Introduce Children to Cinema with Mon Premier Festival
Announced dates: October 21â27, 2026.
Mon Premier Festival offers a selection of films for young audiences at several Parisian movie theaters and cultural venues. This event allows children to discover a variety of films and develop their curiosity about cinema.
The lineup includes screenings tailored to different age groups and makes for a great outing during school breaks. The announced price is âŹ4.50 per screening, subject to confirmation by the organizer.
Check the official program to choose a film suitable for your childrenâs age and reserve your tickets.
đŹ 7. Explore science with the Pariscience festival
Announced dates for the general public: October 22â26, 2026.
Pariscience is an international science film festival featuring screenings dedicated to science, nature, technology, and major contemporary issues.
The screenings offer the chance to discover documentaries and science films. Some screenings are accompanied by Q&A sessions with experts or film crews, allowing attendees to delve deeper into the topics explored on screen.
This event is perfect for the curious, families, and science enthusiasts. Check the official program for details on the films, screening locations, and booking information.
-15%BOOKING.COMExclusive offer15% off Paris hotels with Booking.com- No conditions at all
- Hotels and stays
- Booking in a few clicks
đïž 8. Visit the fall temporary exhibitions
đŒïž Mary Cassatt at the MusĂ©e dâOrsay
Announced dates: October 6, 2026, through January 31, 2027.
The MusĂ©e dâOrsay is dedicating an exhibition to Mary Cassatt, a major American Impressionist artist. This exhibition highlights her artistic journey, her place within the Impressionist movement, and her role in artistic exchanges between France and the United States.
Take advantage of your visit to explore the museumâs permanent collections, housed in a former train station renowned for its architecture. Check the hours and reservation details before you go.
đ· Nadar: Inventing Paris, from the Depths to the Sky
Announced dates: September 29, 2026, through January 31, 2027.
The Catacombs of Paris are hosting an exhibition dedicated to Nadar, a 19th-century photographer and inventor. This exhibition explores his underground and aerial photographic experiments as well as his perspective on Paris.
This exhibition offers a unique perspective on the history of photography. It can complement a visit to the Catacombs, where the tour immerses visitors in the capitalâs ancient underground quarries.
đš CĂ©zanne and Us at the Grand Palais
Announced dates: September 23, 2026, through January 17, 2027.
The Grand Palais is also presenting an exhibition dedicated to Paul CĂ©zanne and the influence of his work on art history. This exhibition will appeal to art lovers and visitors looking to deepen their understanding of modern art.
You can combine this visit with a stroll down the Champs-ĂlysĂ©es or a tour of the monuments in the 8th arrondissement.
đïž 9. Discover events celebrating Japanese culture
Paris is hosting several events dedicated to Japanese culture during the second half of October. Beyond the world of Studio Ghibli, fans of Japanese art can discover handicrafts, stationery, and temporary exhibitions.
A pop-up shop dedicated to the Japanese stationery brand Kakimori is scheduled for October 17 through November 1, 2026, at KIMONO ARCH / Y. & SONS. Visitors can explore notebooks, inks, and writing accessories inspired by Japanese craftsmanship.
The Ăcho 119 gallery is also hosting an exhibition of works by Japanese ceramicist Yasuhiro Kuze and jewelry designer Quitterie through October 17. Be sure to check the hours before your visit, as this event ends soon.
đ 10. Explore the Paris Motor Show before it closes
Announced dates: October 13â18, 2026, for the public.
The Paris Motor Show brings together automakers, enthusiasts, and visitors to explore the industryâs latest innovations. Visitors can explore new models, electric vehicles, and technological innovations that are transforming the automotive industry.
The show takes place at Paris Expo Porte de Versailles. Please note: it ends on Sunday, October 18. If youâre visiting Paris after this date, check out the other events in our selection.
đł 11. Enjoy Parisâs gardens in their fall colors
October is a wonderful time to explore the capitalâs green spaces. The trees are gradually turning shades of gold and red, while the temperatures still make for pleasant walks when the weather stays dry.
The Luxembourg Gardens offer a pleasant setting for strolling around the central pond and admiring the statues. The Tuileries Gardens provide an easy route from the Louvre to Place de la Concorde, while the Jardin des Plantes combines a botanical walk with scientific discovery.
If youâre traveling with children, combine a stroll with a visit to the National Museum of Natural History. Check the opening hours of the galleries and greenhouses before planning your itinerary.
đŒ 12. Admire the Eiffel Tower and Parisâs landmarks
The Eiffel Tower remains a must-see, no matter the season. In October, the late-afternoon light offers ideal conditions for photographing the monument from the TrocadĂ©ro, the Pont dâIĂ©na, or the Champ-de-Mars.
To explore Paris from the Seine, you can also book a sightseeing cruise. This activity lets you admire several iconic landmarks from the river, including Notre-Dame, the Louvre, and the Eiffel Tower.
Book a cruise on the Seine or a sightseeing activity in Paris with GetYourGuide.
If youâd like to go up the Eiffel Tower, book your ticket in advance. Sightseeing enthusiasts can also plan a visit to the Arc de Triomphe, Notre-Dame, or the Louvre.
đ¶ 13. Stroll through Montmartre and the Marais
To discover historic Paris, take the time to stroll through Montmartre. The SacrĂ©-CĆur Basilica, Place du Tertre, and the narrow streets of the hill offer a special atmosphere in the fall. You can extend your walk with a break at a cafĂ© or by exploring the neighborhoodâs shops.
The Marais is another excellent option. The Place des Vosges, the mansions, the art galleries, and the independent shops make for a cultural and culinary stroll.
To plan your itinerary, check out our guide to Parisâs must-see neighborhoods.
đ° 14. Sample Parisian Fall Specialties
A trip to Paris wouldnât be complete without a culinary break. In October, pastry shops, chocolate shops, and restaurants offer a wide variety of seasonal specialties.
Take advantage of your visit to the Marais to discover an artisanal bakery or stop by a chocolate shop before heading to a museum. Food-loving visitors can also plan their day around the Salon du Chocolat, which begins on October 28.
If youâre looking for a unique activity, choose a cooking class or a tasting led by a professional. Check prices and availability before booking.
đšâđ©âđ§ 15. Plan an outing during the All Saintsâ Day break
The All Saintsâ Day break, from October 17 to November 1, 2026, in the Paris school district, offers plenty of opportunities to plan family activities. Film festivals, museums, workshops, and seasonal events provide something for all ages.
âMon Premier Festivalâ is perfect for kids who love movies. The Ghibli screenings at the Maison de la Culture du Japon will appeal to animation fans, while the MĂ©tamorphose festival lets you discover fantastical stories from different cultures.
For Halloween, the YĆkai Matsuri festival on October 31 offers a unique take on Japanese folklore. Families can also opt for a stroll through a garden, a museum visit, or a creative activity.
đ What to do in Paris in October 2026?
- October 16â18: Last chance to visit the Paris Motor Show, and the Maison Ghibli store is set to open on October 17.
- October 21â27: Mon Premier Festival, Pariscience, Paris Games Week (October 22â25), and Art Basel Paris (October 23â25).
- October 28â31: Start of the Salon du Chocolat, Japanese film screenings, and the YĆkai Matsuri festival on Halloween night.
- Throughout your stay: temporary exhibitions, monuments, gardens, and walks through historic neighborhoods.
â FAQ: Visiting Paris in October
Whatâs the best event in Paris in October 2026?
It depends on your interests. Video game enthusiasts might prefer Paris Games Week, art lovers might enjoy Art Basel Paris, and Studio Ghibli fans might appreciate the Maison Ghibli store and Japanese film screenings. The Salon du Chocolat is a great option for foodies starting October 28.
Where can you find Ghibli events in Paris in October 2026?
The Maison Ghibli pop-up store is scheduled to open on October 17 at 15 rue des Halles, in the 1st arrondissement. Screenings of the studioâs films are also scheduled at the MusĂ©e du Quai Branly and the Maison de la Culture du Japon during the All Saintsâ Day school break.
What to do in Paris with kids during the All Saintsâ Day break?
Mon Premier Festival, Ghibli screenings, museums, and gardens are among the activities to consider. Check the recommended ages and booking details for each outing.
What to do in Paris when it rains in October?
Museums, temporary exhibitions, art fairs, and movie screenings let you continue to enjoy Paris even when the weather isnât cooperating. You can visit the MusĂ©e dâOrsay, explore Art Basel Paris, or catch a Japanese film.
Should you make reservations for activities in Paris in October?
Reservations are recommended for major trade shows, highly popular exhibitions, and screenings with limited seating. Check the organizersâ websites before your trip to find out about prices, schedules, and admission requirements.
âš In conclusion: Paris in Octoberâa month full of discoveries
October 2026 offers a varied program in Paris. From the world of Studio Ghibli to international trade shows, film festivals, exhibitions, and Halloween, visitors can easily plan a trip tailored to their interests.
To make the most of the capital, select the events that interest you, group your visits by neighborhood, and book the most popular activities. Also, be sure to set aside time to stroll through the gardens, explore historic streets, and sample Parisian specialties.
Whether youâre visiting Paris for a weekend or during the All Saintsâ Day break, fall is a wonderful opportunity to discover the capital in a whole new light.