5 things to do in Paris this January
Paris in January is irresistible; what with the lack of tourists and the romantic wintery weather, it’s the perfect place to vanquish your post-Christmas blues.
However, if wandering the snowy streets isn’t enough to keep you entertained, check out our list of the best events on in Paris this January, perfect for when you want to come in from the cold!
Raymond Depardon Exhibition
What? An exhibition of both black and white and colour photographs taken by 20th century French artist Raymond Depardon.
Where? Le Grand Palais.
Why should I go? The first exhibition ever to be dedicated to this influential 20th century photography and film director, this event offers us the opportunity to see previously unseen photos taken by Raymond Depardon.
Fascinated by both vast spaces and the loneliness of cities, Depardon’s work is poignant and interesting, and this exhibition is a once in a lifetime opportunity to enjoy such a vast collection of this French artist’s work in Paris.
When? The exhibition runs right through January – until the 10 February. Adult tickets are 11 euros each.
Raymond Depardon: Un moment si douxLe Grand Palais, Galerie Sud-Est, 3 Avenue du Général Eisenhower, 75008
Métro: Champs-Elysées – Clemenceau
Paris Fashion Week
What? The fashion week to end all fashion weeks.
Where? Although the main shows are invitation only (and most of us won’t be lucky enough to find our name on the list) there are many events held in the Carousel de Louvre.
Why should I go? Paris is the fashion capital of the world, and for this one week it takes centre-stage. The city will be buzzing with fashion (as well as the January sales) and it would be a crime not to participate.
You might even be lucky enough to spot one of the many, very-famous designers, models and celebrities that will descend on the city for Paris Fashion Week.
When? It runs from 16 – 24 January, and you can check out this website for more information. The January sales start 8 January.
Paris Fashion WeekVarious locations across Paris
Brassaï: pour l’amour de Paris – Exhibition
What? A free photography exhibition showing images that celebrate the French capital.
Where? Hôtel de Ville
Why should I go? This is un-missable for any lover of Paris – the beautiful photographs taken by a number of different photographers celebrate everything we love about the French capital.
From the romance, to the style, to its quintessential beauty, everything perfect about Paris is showcased here.
When? This exhibition started in November and runs through until March, but we think spending a long afternoon here is the perfect way to vanquish your January blues.
Brassaï: pour l’amour de ParisHôtel de Ville, 5 rue de Lobau, 75004
Métro: Hôtel de Ville
Reading with Jonathan Lethem
What? The acclaimed American novelist will be visiting Paris to read from his latest novel, Dissident Gardens.
Where? The Shakespeare Book Company
Why should I go? The Shakespeare Book Company is a must-visit for lovers of literature. It sells second hand books, as well as regularly hosts literary events for Anglo-expats.
This reading from a popular writer is a perfect way to experience this lovely, intellectual community, as well as immerse yourself in a cultural event completely off the beaten track.
When? 13 January, 7pm. But if you can’t make it, you should still be sure to check out the shop!
Shakespeare and Company, 37 Rue de la Bûcherie, 75005RER: Saint-Michel – Notre-Dame, Métro: Saint-Michel
C’Magic Festival
What? Three installations based on the themes of disappearance, destruction and fleeing time.
Where? Le Centquatre.
Why should I go? These installations challenge the spectators’ perspective of the world around them – performed by two artists through discontinuous temporalities, they are probably the most interesting, mind-warping and unique thing in Paris this January.
When? Throughout January – these installations won’t be taken down until 2 February.
C’MagicLe Centquatre, 5 Rue Curial, 75019
Métro: Riquet
The Novel of a Wardrobe Exhibition
What? An exhibition showcasing the wardrobe of 1930s Parisian socialite Alice Alleaume.
Where? The Musée Carnavalet
Why should I go? This exhibition is a must-see for anyone interested in fashion, or the fascinating mid-war period. The clothes offer an insight to the Parisian chic of a time rich with history and intrigue.
When? The exhibition will remain in place until March, so you’ve got the whole of January to go see it for yourself. Check out this website for more information.
The Novel of a WardrobeMusée Carnavalet, 23 Rue de Sévigné, 75003
Métro: Chemin Vert
And a few more…
You can also check out the production of La Belle et la Bête at the Théâtre Mogador – although it’s in French, there is visually plenty to keep even the non-Francophone entertained.
Or, if you enjoy ice-skating (and can brave the cold!), the rink at Hôtel de Ville will be open throughout January.
What are you most looking forward to in Paris this January? Share your thoughts in the comments box below!
Image credits:1. Snowy Paris, by emilianofraccaroli on Flickr.
2. Raymond Depardon, l’humanité et rien d’autre, by grofjardanhazy [GRJ.hu] on Flickr.
3. Mode à Paris – Steffie Christiaens – Paris Fashion Week – Pret à Porter – Spring / Summer 2013 – September 25, 2012, by Jason Hargrove on Flickr.
4. La Part d’Ombre, by Christian Chauvet on Flickr.
5. Shakespeare and Co, by Hannah Swithinbank on Flickr.
6. Cent Quatre, via Wikipedia.
7. Musée Carnavalet (Paris, Le Marais), by Frédérique PANASSAC on Flickr.
8. Paris ice rink near the Hotel de Ville, by milletre on Flickr.
About the Contributor
Judy MacMahon
