A Free Cultural Evening on Saturday, May 17
On Saturday, May 17, 2025, Paris will host the 21st edition of the European Night of Museums. Organized annually by the French Ministry of Culture, this free event invites everyone to enjoy a unique cultural experience across the city, with over 80 museums staying open late into the night. Special programming will allow visitors to rediscover the capital’s art and heritage in a magical atmosphere.
A Major Cultural Event Across Europe
While Paris is at the heart of the celebration, the event spans far beyond. In 2025, over 3,000 museums across France and Europe are participating, all sharing a common goal: to make culture accessible to everyone, in a festive and welcoming setting.
In Paris, it's a chance to revisit iconic institutions like the Louvre, the Musée d’Orsay, or the Centre Pompidou—but also to explore lesser-known gems hidden in the city’s quieter neighborhoods.
A City-Wide Program Designed Just for the Night
From the late afternoon onward, Parisian museums will roll out programming tailored for all ages. Expect exhibitions, live performances, guided tours, concerts, screenings, and interactive experiences. Whether you come alone, with friends, or as a family, you can design your own cultural journey.
Bringing kids along? Many museums offer dedicated family-friendly activities like creative workshops and themed walks. Adults will appreciate open-access exhibitions, expert-led tours, artistic performances, and behind-the-scenes conversations with museum staff.
Spotlight on “La classe, l’œuvre!”
Once again this year, the "La classe, l’œuvre!" program shines a light on arts education. From primary school to high school, students who’ve studied a work of art throughout the academic year become museum mediators for one night only. Since 2013, this initiative has allowed young people to take part in Nuit des Musées by presenting their own creative projects—offering a fresh perspective to teachers, families, and fellow visitors. It’s an inspiring way to connect younger generations with cultural life.
New for 2025: Focus on Rural Museums
The 2025 edition also spotlights rural museums, as part of the national "Culture and Rurality" plan. Ecomuseums, local history centers, artists' homes—these lesser-known institutions preserve and share the unique stories and skills of their regions. A national digital guide (available as a web app) will launch on May 13 to help the public discover these hidden treasures.
Practical Information
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Date: Saturday, May 17, 2025
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Time: Generally from 6 p.m. to midnight (may vary by museum)
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Admission: Free for all
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Access: Over 80 participating museums across Paris
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Full program: check online via the official event website
How to Plan Your Night of Museums in Paris
To make the most of the evening, it’s best to plan your visit in advance. Some museums require reservations for special activities. Be sure to check each museum’s schedule and identify the ones closest to your route or interests.
Don’t try to do it all! It’s better to select a few museums and explore them fully, rather than rushing through too many. Keep in mind that some venues draw big crowds—arriving early is a smart way to beat the lines.
An Invitation to Explore and Be Inspired
The Night of Museums is the perfect excuse to break out of your routine, rediscover familiar art in a new light, or explore new collections for the first time. Whether you're an art lover, a history enthusiast, or just curious, don’t miss this free and open celebration of culture.
See you in Paris for an unforgettable cultural night !
Photo ©Alexus Goh - Unsplash