Up All Night in Paris
Trip Start
Sep 05, 2008
1
40
Trip End
Ongoing
Paris,
Île-de-France,
France
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
What's French for staying up all night on the razz?
Our friends across the Channel call it a 'Nuit Blanche(white night). And on one night of the year in Paris, partying in the streets, dancing 'til dawn or simply putting the world to rights over a vat of red wine or two is quite literally de rigueur.
First launched in 2002, Paris Nuit Blanche has become a hotly-anticipated annual celebration when, for one night only, the city's museums, galleries, monuments, cinemas, bars, clubs, parks and even swimming pools stay open all night.
This year's event takes place on Saturday 4th October, and in keeping with tradition, the city's top attractions from the Louvre to Musee d'Orsay not only stay open 'til dawn but entry is free.
This access all areas extravaganza turns Paris into a night time playground complete with dazzling light shows and special illuminations of the landmark attractions.
The party, which kicks off at 7pm and winds up at 7am on Sunday morning, also features an exciting programme of special events, including street performances, concerts and contemporary art installations.
This year's art focuses on the city's main train stations. The major railway hubs of Gare du Nord and Gare du Lyon will be transformed with artistry and video projections on the concours, facades and platforms.
And just when you start to flag, another treat is in store. At dawn, each district's city hall, local associations and shopkeepers organise breakfasts for those who lasted through the night.
Last year, more than 600,000 night owls came out to play, and this year's party is expected to be an even bigger affair.
You can stay at the Adagio City Aparthotel Montrouge which has self-catering studio apartments from 202 euros; per studio for two nights.
Photos: http://bobleponge.photo.doctissimo.fr/Paris-Nuit-Blanche
