Paris Events: Oct 2011

It is my humble opinion that fall in Paris is the best time of year to visit. It isn’t just the changing of the season, the crisp leaves below your feet as you pass through the Tuilleries, or the warm moelleux au chocolat that tastes a bit sweeter as the evening turns cool and cozy. There is a calm that spreads over Paris and anchors itself into the daily lives of those who only have a week to live them.

Here are some perfect fall moments this October that aren’t to be missed:

Bastille Market

One of the great things about staying in a private apartment is the opportunity to cook your own food. And to cook, you’ll need to shop. In a world of super markets and super sized food in America, it’s easy to fall into the trap of bringing that mentality with you to Paris. In a city where the language and people can seem foreign on all fronts, food should be something you look forward to exploring. And getting away from the grocery store brand names we have at home is half the battle. The Bastille Market is a fantastic way to see how real people buy real food at a bargain price and make a day of the experience.

Sunday’s in the Bastille Market are lively and exhilerating. You’ll find fresh fish, veg, fruit, flowers...you name it, they’ve got it. Bustling with activity, this is one of the largest in the city and well worth a morning out.

Bastille Market
11th arrondissement

Boulevard Richard Lenoir, from rue Amelot to rue St Sabin
Métro Bastille

Open: Thursday, Sunday


Concerts at the Olympian

For anyone looking to spend an evening as the Parisians do, a concert at the Olympian should be on your to do list. October is a great month to check out some amazing local and large acts, ranging from winners of American Idol’s cousin “ The X Factor France”, to French soul singers and even big names like Tori Amos. The Olympian is a small venue near the old Opera house, with lots of restaurants and bars within easy walking distance. For a particularly good evening, check out Millow on Oct 13th and his hit single “You Don’t Know (Me)”.

The Olympian
www.olympiahall.com
28, boulevard des Capucines
75009 PARIS - de 12h à 19h


Vendanges de Montmartre
Montmartre Wine Harvest: Witnessing the Vendanges de Montmartre is a fantastic way to experience the best of Paris in autumn. The village-like Montmartre neighborhood boasts vines that still produce decent wines-- how many major cities can claim that? Each year, the harvest is celebrated with much fanfare, bringing together musicians, performing artists, wine connoisseurs and lovers.


When: October 6th-10, 2011

Where: Metro Abbesses (line 12).