A guide to enjoying Paris’s Fête de la Musique like a local

Every June 21st, Paris transforms into an open-air music stage. The Fête de la Musique welcomes the start of summer with one simple motto: music for everyone, everywhere, and free. From Hotel Pulitzer Paris, right in the heart of the 9th arrondissement, you’re perfectly located to enjoy it all without overplanning. All you need are comfortable shoes, open ears, and a desire to go with the flow. Get ready to experience one of the most iconic nights of the year — just like a true Parisian.  Here’s how to do it.

What is the Fête de la Musique?

The Fête de la Musique, created in 1981 by then Minister of Culture Jack Lang, marks the start of summer with a truly unique celebration: free, open-air concerts taking place in every corner of the city. On every street, square, park, or even metro platform, you’ll find musicians playing.

And the best part? It’s all free, spontaneous, and open to everyone. No tickets — just music in all its forms, for all kinds of people, everywhere. From jazz and electronic to rock, classical, and world music, everything has its place in this collective celebration that turns Paris into one big urban stage.

At what time does the music start and end?

Many concerts kick off around 2:00 PM, but it’s when the sun goes down that the atmosphere truly comes alive. The streets fill with melodies and the rhythm intensifies. In general, outdoor performances go on until around 10:00 or 11:00 PM.

To check the exact schedule and find out what’s happening near you, visit the official Fête de la Musique 2025 program here: https://fetedelamusique.culture.gouv.fr

 

Feel the rhythm of the city!

With the arrival of good weather, Paris is best enjoyed on foot. The best way to experience the Fête is to simply step out of the hotel and start walking. Just a few steps from the Pulitzer, you’ll find areas that turn into key spots of the festival year after year:

  • Rue Montorgueil – Perfect for mixing live music with outdoor dining.
  • Place de la République – One of the liveliest stages, ideal for urban music and DJ sets.
  • Canal Saint-Martin – Musical strolls by the water with a relaxed, bohemian vibe.
  • Le Marais – Charming streets and more intimate musical performances.

Our tip? Don’t overplan. Follow the sound, wander into unknown streets, and discover surprise performances along the way. That’s part of the magic of the Fête. Concerts pop up where you least expect them — in courtyards, squares, parks, even on balconies. The city becomes a free, improvised, and vibrant festival. If you hear something that draws you in, follow it.

 

What kind of music will you hear?

From string quartets in quiet gardens to electronic beats thumping by the canal — you’ll find it all. During the day, expect more acoustic, classical, or jazz performances, while at night the party begins with DJ sets, urban sounds, and electronic music.

Looking for something off the beaten path?

While the Fête de la Musique turns all of Paris into one big improvised stage, there are also unique experiences that go beyond the usual routes and let you see the city from a different angle. Here are a few of our favorites!

Musical cruise: A boat ride along the Seine with live music. The DJ set blends French classics with electronic beats. Departing from Port Suffren, right by the Eiffel Tower, this is the perfect option if you’re in the mood for a special night out.

Jazz at Hôtel Pont Royal: For those who prefer a more intimate setting, this jazz evening in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés blends live music with signature cocktails. A trio of piano, double bass, and vocals creates a warm, elegant atmosphere.

Orchestre de Paris at the Louvre: A spectacular setting for a truly unique cultural experience. Under the direction of Klaus Mäkelä, the Orchestre de Paris will perform works by Puccini, Ligeti, and Stravinsky in the Louvre’s courtyard, with nods to the exhibition "Naples à Paris". An ideal choice if you're looking for a more sophisticated evening.

Open Air Sacré Radio (Quai Anatole France): An open-air party by the Seine with views of Paris’s most iconic landmarks. Expect electronic music from sunset until the early hours, featuring a lineup of local and international artists. Perfect if you're in the mood for a long, high-energy night.

How to get around during the Fête:

Paris becomes a moving stage, so the best way to get around is like a local:

  • Metro: Runs late and offers extended service during the event.
  • Vélib’: Perfect for hopping between neighborhoods at your own pace.
  • On foot: The best way to fully immerse yourself in the experience.

If you’re staying at Hotel Pulitzer, many of the liveliest spots are just a 10 to 15-minute walk away. And the best part: there’s often music on the very street where the hotel is located — sometimes all you have to do is open your window and soak in the atmosphere.

¿Y si llueve?

Junio en París es impredecible, pero no te preocupes: la música no se detiene. Con un impermeable y una sonrisa, los parisinos siguen bailando bajo la lluvia. Y créenos, un paraguas y una chaqueta ligera bastan para seguir el ritmo sin interrupciones.