Best October Events in Paris in 2019

Paris may be flooded with sun-seeking locals and visitors in the summertime, but the fall is equally beautiful and has a host of events, festivals, and exhibits to explore. In October, for example, there are Parisian art fairs, harvest celebrations, and open-air concerts to enjoy in the City of Light.

01 of 06

Nuit Blanche (White Night)

Nuit Blanche is a popular October event in Paris — Ashley Byock

Don't miss this annual celebration of all things art and culture, in which hundreds of museums, galleries, and other spots around Paris keep their doors open the evening of Saturday, October 5th, 2019. Enjoy dozens of free exhibits, multimedia installations and performances from theatre to music throughout the night.

02 of 06

Vendanges de Montmartre (Montmartre Wine Harvest)

Food, drink, music and ceremonies are all on the agenda at the vendanges de Montmartre — C Tully/Creative Commons 2.0

Witnessing the Vendanges de Montmartre-- a genuine wine harvest-- is a fantastic way to experience the best of Paris in autumn. The village-like Montmartre neighborhood boasts vines that still produce decent wines—how many major cities can claim that? Each year, the harvest is celebrated with much fanfare, bringing together musicians, performing artists, and wine connoisseurs for a joyous three days of festivities perfect for the fall. In 2019, the Vendanges will be held on October 9th to 13th. Find more info on this year's events here.

03 of 06

International Contemporary Art Fair (FIAC)

Grand Palais, Paris — Jean-Pierre Dalbéra/Flickr

One of the most important annual events in Paris' contemporary art scene, the FIAC showcases work from 180 international galleries and some 3,000 artists at three locations on the city's right bank. A gallery's night out event brings dozens of the city's smaller galleries into the heart of the event. The next fair takes place October 17th–20th, 2019 at the Grand Palais, Tuileries Gardens, Jardin des Plantes, and Esplanade des Invalides.

04 of 06

Salon du Chocolat (Chocolate Trade Fair)

Salon du Chocolat, 2018 — Salon du Chocolat

Each year the Porte de Versailles convention center at Paris's southern edge hosts a show entirely dedicated to chocolate, with visitors sampling everything from dark chocolate chunks to savory chocolate-based concoctions featuring foie gras or olive oil. A runway fashion show showing off zany chocolate couture creations is another highlight. Reserve ahead: This is a popular one, for obvious reasons! In 2019, the Salon du Chocolat will run between October 30th and November 3rd.

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05 of 06

Musical Waters at the Chateau de Versailles

Experience the mingling of light, water, and classical music in the gardens of the world's most famous chateau. The festivities will run every weekend through the end of October, so there are plenty of chances to see it for yourself.

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Festival de l'Automne (The Autumn Festival)

Since 1972, the Paris Autumn Festival or "Festival de l'Automne" has brought in the post-summer season with a bang by highlighting some of the most compelling works in contemporary visual art, music, cinema, theater, and other forms. The program is filled with activities until late December, so make sure to have a look and see whether something piques your interest.