Looking for things to do in Paris in May 2026? The month blends big “shopping & home” events, foodie festivals, pop culture, artists’ studio open days and a nature & wellness show. To help you plan, here’s a simple guide: dates, venues, announced opening times, who it’s for… and the official website to book or check the latest info.
And if you’re wondering where to stay to enjoy several outings without spending your time in transit, a central base is ideal: from Hôtel R de Paris (Paris 9th, Saint-Lazare area), you can easily reach Porte de Versailles, the Grand Palais, Parc Floral and eastern Paris—then come back to the comfort of our rooms at the end of the day.
The big public events in May 2026
Foire de Paris
Paris’s unmissable spring fair: home, shopping, food, innovations and entertainment. Great for an all-in-one day out—especially if you’re visiting as a family.
- Dates : 30 April – 11 May 2026.
- Venue : Paris Expo Porte de Versailles — 1 Place de la Porte de Versailles, 75015 Paris.
- Announced opening times : daily 10h–19h; late opening until 22h on Saturday 9 May.
- Who it’s for : general public, families, shoppers, home & décor projects, foodies, innovation lovers.
Taste of Paris
A major foodie rendezvous at the Grand Palais: chefs, tastings and culinary events. Perfect for a “food” weekend in Paris, with daytime and evening sessions.
- Dates : 21 – 24 May 2026.
- Venue : Grand Palais — 7 avenue Winston Churchill, 75008 Paris.
- Announced opening times : session format: daytime 11h30–16h; evening 19h–23h30 (depending on ticket / day).
- Who it’s for : food lovers, couples, groups of friends, anyone curious about cuisine and gourmet experiences.
Le Salon Fantastique + Japan Party
A very public pop-culture / fantasy / cosplay weekend: medieval-fantasy worlds, manga, gaming, makers and entertainment. A high-energy outing that often draws big crowds.
- Dates : 23 – 25 May 2026.
- Venue : Parc Floral de Paris — Espace événements (Hall de la Pinède), Route de la Pyramide, 75012 Paris.
- Announced opening times : to be announced (subject to confirmation on the official website).
- Who it’s for : cosplay fans, manga/anime lovers, fantasy, steampunk, families, groups of friends.
Late May: open days & art up close
Belleville artists’ studio open days
An art trail open to everyone: step into studios, meet the artists and discover the neighbourhood differently. A great end-of-month culture idea.
- Dates : 28 – 31 May 2026.
- Venue : Belleville district (Paris 10th/11th/19th/20th).
- Announced opening times : 14h–20h.
- Who it’s for : art lovers, curious visitors, walkers, travellers who enjoy lively, offbeat places.
Wellness & organic: spanning late May / early June
Salon Naturally
A public nature, organic and wellness show: products, workshops, talks and “greener living” ideas. It starts at the end of May—handy if you’re in Paris for the bank holiday weekend / last weekend of the month.
- Dates : 29 May – 1 June 2026.
- Venue : Paris Expo Porte de Versailles — Hall 5.1, 1 Place de la Porte de Versailles, 75015 Paris.
- Announced opening times : Fri/Sat/Sun 10h30–19h; Mon 10h30–18h.
- Who it’s for : organic-curious visitors, wellness, healthy homes, “natural” beauty, food and sustainable alternatives.
Also on the radar: “May 2026” event announced (date to confirm)
Père-Lachaise artists’ studio open days
A classic in eastern Paris: open studios, meet-and-greets and an arty stroll in the 20th arrondissement. Dates are usually confirmed on the association’s website.
- Dates : May 2026 (to be confirmed).
- Venue : Père-Lachaise area / southern 20th arrondissement (Paris).
- Announced opening times : 14h–20h (to be confirmed depending on the edition).
- Who it’s for : art lovers, curious visitors, free cultural walks, fans of local addresses.
