Summer isn't fully over in Paris in September. (Thank goodness.) The leaves are beginning to turn but the temperature remains warm and the city remains vibrant. That's what makes it the ideal time of year for a month-long celebration of style and design – two things that Paris does best – in the form of Fashion Week. But, fashion isn't the only reason to stay in Paris in September, nor is the lovelu weather (nor are the amazing Plum Guide homes). The locals are in good spirits and the tourists are finally beginning to disperse, and there are so many great things to see, do and enjoy. So, let's take a look at what the month has in store...
Paris Fashion Week
February may be Fashion Month the world over, but September is when fashion really becomes serious. You'll see Spring-Summer collection runways take place and just before that, it's Design Week. With fashion well and truly in the air, it's the ideal time to seek out some stylish new wares yourself. Hats are an essential accessory in the autumn in Paris, and there are some fabulous atéliers in the 6th arrondissement. Follow the fashion pack to some of the hippest haunts in town throughout the week. On the stylish Rue Saint Honouré just streets away from the Louvre, the luxurious Café RUC is a magnet for the rich and famous during Fashion Week. There's Place Vendôme too. Located north of the Louvre and the fashionable rue Saint-Honoré, Place Vendôme is the gemstone capital of the world. In this square alone you'll find Cartier, Lalique, Chopard, and Guerlain. Place Vendôme is another of the fashion crowd's faves. And lastly, what used to be a favourite amongst the socialites of the 19th century is once again home to the beautiful and the trendy. With one counter dedicated to coffee and treats and one to its ice cream legacy, Tortoni is a worthy pit-stop amidst the bustle. And if you want to stay somehwhere stylish throughout your trip, choose from one of our homes in Paris like Rue Marbeuf.
Rue Marbeuf, Plum Guide home in Paris
Journées du Patrimonie
Organised by the French Ministry of Culture and Communication more than 30 years ago, European Heritage Days invite visitors to experience iconic Parisian landmarks and monuments for free. Whether it's your first time in Paris or you're a seasoned pro, you know a day spent somewhere like the Fondation Louis Vuitton or the Arc de Triomphe is always worth it. European Heritage Days invite the general public to experience classic and contemporary spots around the city. There are fun activities like workshops, walks, and even guided tours - learn something new every day.
Paris Design Week
Aiming to bring the public together with talented and emerging young designers, Paris Design Week is a free event that occurs during the second week of September. Home décor, fashion, and even food experts display their wares, collections, and prototypes to the culturally starving. Paris Design Week is an extension of the MAISON & OBJET trade fair, dedicated to the very art of a good lifestyle. The event takes place at nearly 200 venues across Paris including museums, art galleries and incomparable institutions like La Maison Rouge. Who knows what kind of inspiration you can pick up along the way? Because, after all, everyone is due a little switch-up now and then… Go even further and stay in a design-led Plum home like The Opera House during your trip for even more interior inspiration.
The Opera House, Plum Guide home in Paris
Fête de la Gastronomie
In France - as seems unsurprising - there are a number of life's joys that have their own days of celebration. Music (Fête de la Musique) is celebrated in July while even work (if you're lucky you enjoy your work) has its own day. It only goes without saying, then, that food has its own celebrations, too. The Fête de la Gastronomie happens annually in September, usually around the tail end of it. This celebration stretches over the whole country, but nowhere is intent on making it excel than Paris. Its programme brings cooking professionals together with the public, offering events like cooking classes and special deals in some of the hottest restaurants in town. Keep your eyes on some of the city's cultural centres during the festival as they often have cuisine-specific celebrations of their own.
La Fête au Bois de Boulogne
This festival (also known as the Fête à Neuneu) is a highlight of the season for families all over Paris. It happens in the far reaches of the Bois de Boulogne in the 16th arrondissement, one of the best places to stay in Paris with kids. It's here, on the western edge of the city, you'll find classic town fair goodies like a Ferris wheel, competitions, thrilling rides, stalls, and entertainment. Primarily (but not exclusively) for those children, hundreds upon hundreds descend upon the park every September for fun, candy floss, toffee apples, and memories. It's never too late to recapture the joys of childhood.
Jazz à la Villette
Music-lovers and audiophiles alike wait in anticipation year-round for the jazz festival in the 19th arrondissement in the Parc de la Villette. Each year, the unique programme brings together the music-minded from all walks of life. Whether you love jazz, blues, funk, or hip-hop, there's something for you at the Jazz à La Villette. Prices range from €8-40, but the joy of music will never leave you. Why not stay in the Rue de Sambre-et-Meuse Townhouse while you're at it?
If you enjoyed reading all about Paris in September, then start planning your trip by heading over to our guide to the most unique places to stay in Paris, or perhaps a list of the most luxurious Parisian homes in our collection instead.
