January in Paris: 8 trade shows and fairs to explore with family and friends

January promises to be a month full of discoveries in Paris! The capital hosts a diverse program of trade shows and fairs for the general public: adventure, sports, wellness, contemporary art, urban culture, wedding planning, and automotive passions. These are perfect outings for a stay with family, friends, or as a couple: a mix of sightseeing, "wow" moments, gourmet breaks, and strolls through Paris. By staying at the Hôtel R de Paris, in the heart of the 9th arrondissement (Saint-Lazare area), you'll benefit from a convenient base: easily reach major event venues and return home without any hassle, in peace and quiet. The 8 events not to miss in January 2026 Here is a selection of the most welcoming and accessible trade shows (even if you're not an "expert" on the subject). The right approach: choose 2 to 3 shows if you're coming for a weekend, or 3 to 5 if you're staying for several days.

  • Scuba Diving Show (January 8–11) – Paris Expo Porte de Versailles
  • Climbing Show (January 10–11) – Paris Expo Porte de Versailles
  • Thermalies (January) – Carrousel du Louvre
  • Bio & Wellness (January) – Paris Expo Porte de Versailles Retromobile (January 28 – February 1) – Paris Expo Porte de Versailles Art3F Paris (January 30 – February 1) – Paris Expo Porte de Versailles World Tattoo Convention (January 30 – February 1) – Grande Halle de la Villette Wedding Fair (January 31 – February 1) – Paris Expo Porte de Versailles Early January: Adventure and Extreme Sports Scuba Diving Show (January 8–11) – Porte de Versailles A truly unique show: even if you don't dive, you'll find a "travel & discovery" atmosphere with equipment, advice, Meet-ups and often activities. It's exactly the kind of outing that appeals to both the curious and the passionate, because the experience is visual and immersive.
    • Why go: New products, destination ideas, demonstrations, and a friendly, family atmosphere.
    • For whom: Families, friends, travelers, adventure enthusiasts.
    • Visit tip: Plan a proper loop (stands + activities) rather than a straight run.

      • Climbing Show (January 10–11) — Porte de Versailles

      Shorter but very lively, this show is perfect if you love thrills, sports culture, and a sense of community.

      You can simply come and browse, or be tempted by the discovery/introductory areas when they are available (depending on the year's program).
      • Why go: demonstrations, meetings, inspiration (rooms, equipment, practice).
      • For whom: friends, teenagers, athletes, curious minds.
      • Visiting tip: if you are coming in a group, arrange a meeting point (the "sports" trade shows are often very lively).

      Mid-January: Wellness, relaxation, and getaway ideas

      The Thermalies (January) — Carrousel du Louvre

      The ultimate "gentle break" trade show: thermalism, thalassotherapy, spas, treatments, ideas for rejuvenating getaways... Come to find inspiration, compare, ask questions, and Leave with concrete ideas (and sometimes great tips, depending on the exhibitors).

      • Why go: Wellness inspiration + personalized advice.
      • For whom: Couples, friends, relaxation enthusiasts.
      • To combine: A stroll through the Tuileries Gardens/Louvre before or after, depending on your energy level.

        • Organic & Wellness Fair (January) — Porte de Versailles

        Natural cosmetics, ethical products, gentle practices, workshops, and conferences: this fair is a great place to be if you enjoy conscious consumption and discovering useful everyday products.

        It can be very dense: it's best to come with a specific idea in mind (cosmetics, food, practices, etc.) to avoid getting overwhelmed.
        • Why go: discoveries, workshops, discussions, new organic/natural products.
        • For whom: lifestyle enthusiasts, wellness lovers, families (depending on the area).
        • Visitor tip: make a note of the "needs improvement" stands and come back at the end of your visit (avoid impulse purchases).

        Late January: Art, Culture, and Passions

        Art3F Paris (January 30 – February 1) — Porte de Versailles

        A contemporary art fair designed to be accessible: stroll around, discover a wide variety of styles, chat, and be surprised.

        It's a great "inspiration" outing for a trip, even if you're not a collector.
        • Why go: to discover, discuss, get inspired (and sometimes buy).
        • For whom: art lovers, curious minds, families with teenagers.
        • Visitor tip: do a first "scouting" tour, then a second, more focused one.

          • Mondial du Tatouage (January 30 – February 1) — Grande Halle de la Villette

          An impressive, highly visual convention with a unique atmosphere: styles from all over the world, artistic universe, urban culture, demonstrations… Even if you don't plan on getting a tattoo, it's an amazing, energetic outing.

          • Why go: to discover styles, see artists' work, experience the atmosphere.
          • For whom: friends, curious couples, enthusiasts, lovers of contemporary culture.
          • Visitor tip: if you like taking photos, choose quieter moments.

          Wedding Fair (January 31 – February 1) — Porte de Versailles

          A very "project-oriented" fair: dresses, accessories, decorations, vendors, design ideas, advice… It's useful even if you're just starting out: you can gather inspiration and a clearer vision of your priorities (venue, budget, style, timeline).

          • Why go: inspiration + vendors + trends + advice.
          • For whom: couples, witnesses, accompanying families.
          • Visitor tip: come with 3 objectives (e.g., venue / (photo/decor) to remain efficient.

          The unmissable: Rétromobile

          Rétromobile (January 28 – February 1) — Porte de Versailles

          The classic: exceptional vehicles, rare pieces, an atmosphere of enthusiasts… You can easily spend a long time there, because there is as much to admire as there is to learn. It's also a great family outing: even if you're not a car enthusiast, you'll be captivated by the designs, the history, and the details.

          • Why go: Spectacular exhibition, varied themes, legendary atmosphere.
          • For whom: Families, enthusiasts, the curious, friends.
          • Visitor tip: Plan to take breaks (it's a show where you do a lot of walking).

            • Access from the Hôtel R de Paris

            These events are spread across three main venues: Paris Expo Porte de Versailles, the Carrousel du Louvre, and the Grande Halle de la Villette. From the Saint-Lazare area, journeys are easily made by metro (line 12 is often convenient for Porte de Versailles, and other lines allow you to reach the Louvre or La Villette depending on your route). To optimize your day (best time slot, simplest route, smooth return), our digital concierge can advise you.

            Suggested Day Trips for Residents

            • Family Trip (Porte de Versailles): Scuba diving or Rétromobile + afternoon snack break + leisurely return.
            • Couple Trip (Central Paris): Thermalies + stroll through the Tuileries Gardens/Louvre + evening in the 9th arrondissement.
            • Friends Trip (Culture & Atmosphere): Mondial du Tatouage (World Tattoo Convention) + stroll through La Villette + drinks to debrief.

              • Relaxation and Comfort Between Visits

              After a day at the convention, rediscover the pleasure of returning to a peaceful retreat: our space Wellness (sauna & hammam), a moment in the bar-lounge, then a good night's sleep before heading out again. And to start the day off right, enjoy our breakfast. To extend your stay at your own pace, discover our rooms.