Paris Plage
November 8th, 2010 | Travel | No Comments »
photo credit: benoit.darcy
Traveling to Paris in the summertime? You may be surprised to discover that Paris now has beachfront property! Paris Plage, an annual summer event that began in 2002, turns the banks of the Seine into a real beach party complete with sand, water, music, sports and good times. Both city-bound Parisians as well as tourists come to soak up the sun and the lively atmosphere that is part of this 4-week festival that starts in mid-July.
How do they do it? The city starts by blocking off the banks of the Seine to all automobile traffic. Then trucks arrive hauling in 2,000 tons of fresh, soft sand which gets spread along the asphalt roadway. After the sand come the palm trees, the parasols, the deck chairs and loungers; a specially-constructed swimming pool (which stays in place only for this event), water misters and spray showers. For those who don’t wish to lounge in the sun, a variety of sports opportunities are available: climbing walls, fitness classes, mini-golf, fencing, a fishing area…everything one could hope for in a seaside resort, right in central Paris! In all, three and a half kilometers of prime beach land are set up, awaiting the happy sun-worshipers and anyone who wants to come and enjoy this amazing and unique installation. And because no French activity is worth much without food or drink, a choice of snack bars and ice cream stands can be found on site. Pull up a chair, pour yourself a refreshing pastis and get ready to people-watch!
This year, Paris Plage plans include concerts and other musical events, dance classes should you wish to learn to tango, salsa or chachacha, and workshops for children where they can learn mask-making, T-shirt painting, or do some science experiments. For the adults, there is a special “spa” space where you can get a massage. The square in front of Paris’ city hall will be turned into a volleyball court (with sand covering the current cobblestones) and you can participate in pétanque, or lawn bowling tournament along the riverbanks. Forgot your book? You can rent one from the Paris Plage library for 1€, and laze away the afternoon reading in one of the specially-installed hammocks.
Paris Plage details
Paris Plage is situated between the Tuileries gardens (near the Louvre) and extends east towards the Pont Henri IV. It is open July 20-August 19, each day 8:00am until midnight. Paris Plage is a free event.