le 22 mai 2026

Step into Paris from anywhere in the world. Each week, the Paris Postcard shares what’s new, noteworthy, and utterly enchanting in the City of Light.

Pentecost Sunday and Monday fall on May 24 and 25 this year. These are official holidays in France, marking the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles—and yet another long weekend on the Paris calendar. Many Parisians use the occasion to escape to the countryside or coast, while visitors settle more fully into the city ahead of the peak summer season.

For those staying in Paris, the Nuit des Musées (Museum Night) takes place on Friday, May 23. During this annual event, museums across the city open their doors late into the evening, offering complimentary admission and special programming throughout Paris. There is something especially magical about experiencing the city’s museums after dark—wandering through galleries illuminated at night before spilling back onto softly lit Parisian streets. It is a popular event, so plan accordingly and expect long lines and considerable wait times.

On Sunday, May 25, the Palace of Versailles hosts its annual Fêtes Galantes, one of the most visually spectacular evenings of the season. Guests arrive dressed in elaborate period-inspired attire for an immersive celebration inside the palace and gardens, inspired by the grandeur of Louis XIV’s court. The evening blends candlelight, baroque music, dancing, illuminated gardens, and extraordinary costumes into an experience that feels suspended somewhere between history and theater.

Meanwhile, the French Open is now underway at Roland-Garros, bringing a completely different kind of energy to the city. Paris embraces tennis season wholeheartedly at this time of year. Café televisions quietly stream matches throughout the day, conversations drift toward draws and upsets, and the unmistakable red clay begins appearing everywhere—from storefront windows to hotel lounges. Roland-Garros always feels uniquely Parisian compared to the other Grand Slam tournaments—be sure to check out my recent post, Five Things I Love About Going to the French Open.

One of the largest brocantes of the season takes place this weekend on Rue de Bretagne in the Marais, transforming the street into a lively open-air treasure hunt. Stalls line the neighborhood with everything from antique tableware and vintage textiles to old books, artwork, and unexpected curiosities. It is the kind of event where you go without a plan and leave with something you did not know you were looking for, all set against the backdrop of one of the Marais’ most vibrant streets. You can also read my post How to Find the Best Brocantes and Vide-Greniers.

Altogether, this week captures one of the most beautiful transitions in the Paris calendar. The city feels fuller, more animated, and increasingly alive with outdoor culture, while still holding onto the softness and elegance that define Paris in spring.

ICYMI

Earlier this week, I shared 96 hours in Biarritz—a few days that capture the city’s distinct rhythm along the Basque coast. From long seaside walks and café stops overlooking the Atlantic to the balance between elegant hotel stays and relaxed neighborhood dining, it’s a portrait of life in motion between coast and café culture.

Speaking of parties at Versailles, this week’s nostalgia post from September 2008 revisits Party Prep at Le Petit Trianon, just before its post-renovation opening gala.

Bon week-end!

xoxo, Jeannine