What’s on in Paris this March?
With the year steadily ticking on, and spring gradually approaching, it’s the ideal time for a quick March trip to Paris.
While it may be the perfect weather for wandering around the Luxembourg Gardens, or taking a stroll along the Seine, there’s also plenty of cultural fodder to keep you entertained, and we’ve collected things to do this March in Paris that you really shouldn’t miss.
Henri Cartier Bresson Retrospective
What? An exhibition focusing on the work of Henri Cartier Bresson – an influential photographer who bore witness to some of the major events of the 20th century – namely the Second World War, the Spanish Civil War and widespread decolonisation.
Why should I go? This is a fascinating insight into vitally important political events, through the medium of beautiful, poignant photographs.
It pulls together photographs and documents in an effort to archive the life of this extraordinary photographer; not only did Cartier Bresson invent the concept of the ‘decisive moment’, but also co-founded the Magnum Agency.
When? The exhibition started in February and will run until 9 June, leaving you with plenty of time to check it out.
Centre Georges Pompidou12 February – 9 June 2014
Métro: Hôtel de Ville
Vincent Van Gogh / Antonin Artaud. Le Suicidé de la société
What? An exhibition examining the tragedy – and the reason – behind the suicide of Vincent Van Gogh.
Why should I go? One of the world’s most beloved artists, in his time Vincent Van Gogh was impoverished, under-appreciated and committed suicide before selling a single painting.
This exhibition puts forward the theory that this tragedy wasn’t the cause of Van Gogh’s perceived psychological imbalance, but more a result of his clear-sightedness – that which proved too much for the common man. Any fans of Van Gogh will find this fascinating.
When? This starts on 11 March, and doesn’t end until early June.
Musée D’orsay11 March – 6 June 2014
Métro: Solférino
Paris sur Mode
What? A tradeshow presenting a selection of 80 womenswear brands, balancing the well-established labels with newer, trendier ones.
Why should I go? This is an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in Paris’ fashion scene – especially if you’re not lucky enough to find yourself with VIP invites to the larger fashion week events.
With such a wide range of brands in the spotlight, you’re sure to find some fashion inspiration here!
When? This particular show is only on for the first three days of March, but you can check out this website for a run-down of all the fashion events taking place in Paris this month.
Jardin des Tuileries28 February – 3 March 2014
Métro: Tuileries
Omnivore Food Festival
What? Celebrated as one of the most creative food festivals in the world, the Omnivore Food Festival spotlights the very best (and often very strange) food and wines.
Why should I go? This is a young and trendy way of looking at haute cuisine, and for any appreciator of fine dining, an incredible opportunity. Offering master-classes and demonstrations by chefs from across the globe, you’re unlikely to find a better food event.
Although this may not be the cheapest event on our list, if you’re a fan of food then this three day exhibition (recommended by Paris by Mouth) is a holiday in itself.
When? The 16-18 March.
Maison de la Mutualité16 March – 18 March 2014
Métro: Maubert-Mutualité
Salon des Vins des Vignerons Indépendants
What? This collates wines from across France and offers them up to the general public for tasting.
Why should I go? France is famous for its vin and this exhibition allows anyone to be a connoisseur. Not only will you be able to taste each wine, you will also have the opportunity to learn about its origins and its function, and even meet the grape-grower who produced it.
Any Francophile will enjoy learning a little bit more about France’s wine traditions, as well as the opportunity to taste such a huge range of varieties!
When? At the end of March.
Espace Champerret28 March – 31 March 2014
Métro: Porte de Champerret
What do you do in March in Paris? Have we missed anything off our list? Let us know any Paris events you’re looking forward to this March in the comment section below.
Image credits:1. _MG_0800 by Carlos Torres, via Flickr.
2. Henri Cartier Bresson-Havana. La Havane. by Sebastian Januszevski, via Flickr.
3. Vincent Willem van Gogh 107 by The Yorck Project, via Wikimedia Commons.
4. STREETSTYLE by Zylenia, via Flickr.
5. Omnivore Food Festival (OFF 6) by Paris by Mouth, via Flickr.
6. wines we tasted by mari, via Flickr.
I love these guides, and if and when I ever live in France will be requesting one for wherever I end up. Paris seems very tempting at the moment, with so much going on!
The Van Gogh exhibition particularly interests me, so who knows, perhaps un petit séjour à Paris could be arranged!