le 8 juillet 2026
Paris has settled into summer and, while the record-breaking heat that arrived in late June is a little less oppressive, temperatures remain well above seasonal norms, with another spell of hot, sunny weather expected throughout the week. Parisians are adapting as they always do—seeking the shade of leafy gardens, lingering over cool drinks on café terraces, and saving leisurely strolls along the Seine for early morning or after sunset hours.
Music lovers may want to wander into the elegant Parc de Bagatelle, where the annual Festival Chopin continues with intimate piano recitals set among one of Paris’s most beautiful rose gardens. It is one of those quintessentially Parisian experiences that feels wonderfully undiscovered—a perfect summer afternoon surrounded by music, nature, and the timeless beauty of Paris.
If you have never visited the Parc de Bagatelle or Château Bagatelle, this is the perfect opportunity to explore this enchanting corner of the Bois de Boulogne. Built in 1777 following a famous wager between the Comte d’Artois, brother of King Louis XVI, and Marie-Antoinette, the château was completed in just sixty-four days—a remarkable feat that gave rise to its name, Bagatelle, meaning a “trifle” or something of little importance. Today, the elegant château, romantic gardens, and renowned rose collection offer a peaceful escape from the energy of central Paris.
As Bastille Day approaches, excitement begins to build across the city. While it is known around the world as Bastille Day, the French do not typically call it that. In France, July 14 is known as la Fête Nationale or simply le Quatorze Juillet—a day to celebrate the French Republic, liberty, and the values that have shaped the nation’s history.
Fun fact: Bastille Day took place during my very first visit to Paris. We hadn’t planned our trip around the holiday and had no idea what was about to unfold. That afternoon, we settled in for a leisurely lunch on the terrace at Chez Francis near the Pont de l’Alma. As the hours passed, the streets around us became increasingly crowded, and we soon realized we had inadvertently claimed one of the best vantage points for the evening’s Eiffel Tower fireworks. Rather than joining the crowds, we simply lingered over our meal and watched the spectacular display from the comfort of our café table. It remains one of my favorite—and most unexpected—Paris memories!
These days, visitors have the opportunity to experience that same magic during one of Paris’s most spectacular annual celebrations. On the evening of July 13, the Concert de Paris returns to the Champ-de-Mars beneath the Eiffel Tower, bringing together some of the world’s finest musicians for a spectacular open-air performance. The evening culminates with Paris’s breathtaking fireworks display illuminating the sky above the Eiffel Tower.
The celebration continues on July 14 with the traditional military parade along the Champs-Élysées, accompanied by the dramatic flyover of the Patrouille de France, which paints the sky in brilliant blue, white, and red. Throughout the day—and well into the evening—neighborhood Bals des Pompiers, or Firemen’s Balls, invite locals and visitors alike to dance in fire stations transformed into lively community celebrations. This beloved French tradition is one of the most joyful ways to experience le Quatorze Juillet like a Parisian, with music, dancing, and a wonderful sense of community.
If you are fortunate enough to be in Paris this week, plan ahead. Security will be heightened around the Bastille Day festivities, and areas surrounding the Eiffel Tower and Champs-Élysées will be especially busy. An early start—and a little patience—will reward you with some of the city’s most memorable summer moments.
#ICYMI
If you missed it earlier this week, I shared The Art of the French Apéro, a celebration of one of France’s most cherished traditions. With Bastille Day just around the corner, there’s no better excuse to gather with friends, pour a favorite French wine, and embrace the simple pleasure of lingering over good conversation.
For a bit of nostalgia, here’s a link to my September 2009 post A Visit to the Château de Bagatelle.
Until next Friday, I hope you will find a shady café terrace, linger over a chilled glass of rosé or a crisp Chablis, and savor everything that makes life enchanting – no matter where you live!.
xoxo, Jeannine
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