5 things to do in Paris this weekend

As Halloween approaches, Parisians are getting ready to put on their spookiest costumes and dance until the sun comes up. On the other hand, there's plenty to discover this weekend with new exhibitions, a new pop-up of independent brands and a locals-only lunch spot where you're sure to get your money's worth. Find out what the city has to offer this weekend.

Where to eat - Bahn Mi 88 

Looking for the best Bahn mi in Paris? In our opinion, it's Bahn Mi 88. Run by a former clothes shop owner known simply as Madame La, this establishment is 100% Vietnamese and authentic. The bahn mi sandwich is well loved by Parisians and is a departure from the traditional bakery sandwich. Here, the restaurant works with a local baker to ensure a daily delivery of fresh bread. Crispy pork belly, pickled carrots, mayonnaise, a handful of coriander, all stuffed into a perfectly crisp baguette? Lunch is served. Madame La also offers variations with grilled chicken, marinated beef and tofu. We also recommend a portion of her tasty glutinous rice. One of these authentic, traditional sandwiches costs just €4, which is surprising given the generosity of the portions.

88 Av. d'Ivry, 75013 Paris

What to discover - Hayao Miyazaki au Grand Rex Cinema 

If you're not in the mood to celebrate Halloween on Saturday night, we have another suggestion. Head to the Grand Rex cinema for an evening devoted to Japanese film-maker Hayao Miyazaki. From 8.30pm, film fans will have the chance to rediscover 4 of the director's films, including his latest opus: The Boy and the Heron. The other films to be screened are The Voyage of Chihiro, The Moving Castle, and the cult film Princess Mononoke. You may have already seen some of his films on streaming platforms, but it's unlikely that you've seen them on the silver screen. Instead of staying at home and watching your latest favourite series, get out and enjoy the art of one of the greatest actors of the 7th art.

1 Bd Poissonnière, 75002 Paris

Where to have fun - Les Nocturnes de la Terreur au Musée de l'Illusion

When it comes to Halloween, Paris is doing things differently. Instead of going door-to-door asking for sweets as in the United States, the city is opting for more event-based outings. This weekend, head to the Musée de l'Illusion for an evening of terror and mystery. What's on the programme? An immersive experience with more than ten actors and comedians to entertain visitors while they participate. The synopsis? A visitor among you has been bewitched, and through a series of scenes and theatrical performances, guests will have to try and guess who is in danger. Designed as a sort of "murder mystery" evening, this experience forces you to socialise with the other participants, in the spirit of Halloween.

98 Rue Saint-Denis, 75001 Paris

Where to shop - The Nitro Factory Pop-up chez Curties

On Saturday and Sunday, from 10am to 7pm, multidisciplinary development and production studio The Nitro Factory (TNF) will be setting up shop in the French capital. The pop-up will be spotlighting six different brands, mostly offering handmade products as well as a few vintage treasures. From crochet outfits and Korean-made beauty and skincare products to one-off pieces that can be made to measure, you're sure to find something unique. What better way to shop than to support small, independent brands? Discover emerging brands such as Odem Paris and Carlis Studio, and leave with new insights into what's new on the market.

16 Rue Louise Emilie de la Tour d'Auvergne 75009, Paris

Where to club - Pamela Hoelloween 

Attention queer community, the 'Hoelloween' evening at the Pamela promises an extraordinary night. It's one of Parisians' favourite nightclubs. It's a queer-friendly event for women/trans/non-binary people only, with DJ sets by Aaliyahnelle and 22heures30. The event will also feature performances by Maji Claire and Jennyfa. Organised by Parisian collective P3, the night promises debauchery, limitless costumes and dancing until dawn. The party starts at 10pm, and, according to the instagram post, invites you to dress up as the alter ego without any pretence. Tickets are still on sale on the Dice app for €21.42.

Pamela - 62 Rue Mazarine, 75006 Paris