March in Paris: What's On? A Guide to Cultural Events and Festivals

THE FC GUIDE TO PARIS
3/19/2025
Image courtesy of France Channel, “Fashion Week les nouvelles stars”

March is a fantastic time to visit Paris, as the city transitions from winter to spring with a mix of cultural events, festivals, and seasonal activities. Whether you're into art, music, film, or food, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Here’s your guide to the must-see events happening in Paris this March.

1. Paris Fashion Week (Early March)

Fashion lovers rejoice! March kicks off with Paris Fashion Week, showcasing the latest trends from top designers. While official runway shows are invitation-only, the city buzzes with pop-up events, exhibitions, and stylish street fashion. Stroll around hotspots like the Tuileries Gardens and Place Vendôme to catch a glimpse of the action.

2. Salon du Livre de Paris (Paris Book Fair)

Book enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the Salon du Livre, a major literary event held at the Grand Palais. This international book fair gathers authors, publishers, and readers for signings, discussions, and literary discoveries. Each year highlights a specific theme or country, making it a great place to explore new literary perspectives.

3. International Women’s Day (March 8)

Paris celebrates International Women’s Day with exhibitions, talks, and performances honoring women’s achievements in art, politics, and science. Keep an eye out for special events at museums like the Musée d’Orsay, which often highlights female artists, and public talks at cultural institutions around the city.

4. CinéFestival: Paris Film Festivals

March is a great month for cinephiles, as Paris hosts various film festivals. The Festival du Film Francophone shines a light on French-language cinema, while the Paris Environmental Film Festival focuses on sustainability and nature. Independent cinemas across the city also feature special screenings and retrospectives throughout the month.

5. Spring Art Exhibitions

March sees the launch of new art exhibitions in Paris’s top museums and galleries. The Musée du Louvre, Centre Pompidou, and Musée d'Orsay debut spring exhibits covering everything from Renaissance masterpieces to contemporary installations. The Fondation Louis Vuitton and Palais de Tokyo are also must-visits for modern art lovers.

6. Foire de Chatou (Antiques Fair)

If you love vintage finds, head to the Foire de Chatou, an antique and flea market fair just outside Paris. With hundreds of dealers showcasing everything from rare books to Art Deco furniture, it's a treasure trove for collectors and design enthusiasts alike.

7. Seasonal Delights: Food and Drink in March

Spring brings a fresh wave of seasonal produce to Parisian markets and restaurants. March is the perfect time to savor white asparagus, early strawberries, and hearty stews before lighter spring menus take over. Many bakeries and cafés also start introducing Easter-themed pastries, like chocolate eggs and hot cross buns.

8. St. Patrick’s Day (March 17)

Paris might not be Dublin, but it still knows how to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day! Irish pubs like O’Sullivan’s, The Green Linnet, and The Quiet Man host lively celebrations with Guinness, live music, and Irish dancing. Some cultural centers, such as the Centre Culturel Irlandais, also organize special events in honor of Irish heritage.

Planning Your March Visit

With a mix of indoor and outdoor events, March is a versatile time to explore Paris. While the weather can be unpredictable, milder temperatures and fewer tourists make it an ideal month for cultural discovery. Be sure to check event websites for exact dates and ticket availability.

From high fashion to literary gatherings, from cinema to seasonal cuisine, March in Paris offers a vibrant and diverse cultural scene that will make your visit unforgettable.