New York is dubbed as ‘the city which never sleeps’. For one night a year, Paris actually doesn’t.
In 2002 Christophe Girard proposed to the then mayor of Paris, Bertrand Delanoë, a new cultural festival. As culture minister, Girard was expected to come up with a new proposal. But his suggestion of an all-night cultural event went entirely against the grain. However, the French decided to try it out and as it’s been a great success, it has remained a permanent fixture in the French calendar.
Called Nuit Blanche it’s a night where all the museums, cinemas, parks and swimming pools stay open all night. Often as part of Nuit Blanche special events are laid on within the attractions – people are encouraged to stay up by free entertainment throughout the night.
In the morning for those who lasted the whole night, free breakfast is offered in various locations. Lasting from 7pm until 7am, it is a twelve hour cultural extravaganza, which encourages people to appreciate the city around them.
What’s more, in the dark the museums and swimming pools have a much better ambiance. It feels like something truly special. Particularly as Paris is a beautiful city by night.
You might think taking part in Nuit Blanche will leave you exhausted; in fact, it will leave you buzzing with energy.
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