5 activities to do this weekend in Paris

The outings are numerous for this new weekend marked by the festivities of the Lunar New Year, the final of the Africa Cup of Nations (CAN), and the Paris Carnival. Prepare to be enchanted by unique flavors at the Rue au Maire food market, celebrating the year of the dragon, followed by an immersive cultural experience at La Samaritaine. Experience the final moments of the CAN in the streets of Paris, unearth vintage treasures in the Marais, or dance until the early hours of the morning at Silencio des Prés. Discover what the city has to offer this weekend.

Where to Eat: Discover Asian Flavors at the Rue au Maire Food Market

Celebrated in various Asian countries such as China, South Korea, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Singapore, the Lunar New Year, based on the annual cycle of the sun and the phases of the moon, will take place in 2024 on Saturday, February 10th. This day and evening will mark a transition to the Wood Dragon sign, symbolizing growth, creativity, and renewal. On this occasion, an entirely Asian food market sets up in the Marais, the oldest Chinatown in Paris. Under the impetus of the Ultimate Guide and for the second consecutive year, all the merchants on the street will offer their specialties to passersby, ranging from bo bun to onigiri, Chinese soup, and tacos made from rice cakes, all for just 2 euros! For the first time, the Bao Family, renowned for its modernization of Chinese cuisine, will also present its specialties.

Rue au Maire, 75003 Paris

What to Discover: Celebrate Chinese New Year at La Samaritaine

This Saturday, February 10th, La Samaritaine joins in the celebration of the Year of the Dragon by inviting you to immerse yourself in a shopping and cultural experience. Let yourself be carried away by captivating animations and thrilling workshops. The dragon dance, starting at the Pont-Neuf, will extend from outside to inside the store, reaching its climax on the 5th floor under the glass roof. In addition to this enchanting spectacle, the store also offers a free calligraphy workshop led by the artist Jianfei, open to everyone and without appointment. Leave with your name calligraphed in Chinese or other surprise goodies.

9 R. de la Monnaie, 75001 Paris

Where to Have Fun: Watch the CAN Final in a Festive Setting

Broadcasted on beIN Sport, the Africa Cup of Nations is fully experienced in the lively streets of Paris. For this highly anticipated final, several restaurants and bars in the capital offer the opportunity to watch the match. This Sunday, Ivory Coast will try to clinch a third star against Nigeria. If you couldn't get a spot for the viewing organized by the collective Air Afrique, don't worry, we've spotted a few places to fully experience this moment. Since the start of the CAN, the Embassy of Ivory Coast in France has been broadcasting all the Elephants' matches. For those preferring a more intimate atmosphere, Coqk'Ivoire, a famous Ivorian restaurant on Rue Meslay, is ideal. As for pub lovers, Frog Revolution and The Moose have been showing all the tournament matches so far, so it's likely they'll continue on this trend.

Where to Shop: A Vintage Pop-Up in the 3rd Arrondissement

Until January 18th, the boutique at 7 Rue des Gravilliers comes alive with a pop-up of creators orchestrated by the creators of three vintage boutiques. Thrift Or Die, Come Prima, and Recovered Paris announce their return with a tailor-made event for fashion enthusiasts, featuring a selection of retro shops, handmade jewelry, and clothing designers. Jewelry enthusiasts will have the opportunity to discover the unique creations of Leyre_access from February 8th to 16th, followed by Sinlerworld on February 17th and 18th. Moreover, the event will showcase young designers such as Floredesermet on February 10th and 11th, as well as Kenzaiatrides from February 12th to 18th.

7 Rue des Gravilliers, 75003 Paris

Where to Party: La Gigi at Silencio des Prés

We've found the perfect event to liven up your Saturday night. Head to Silencio des Prés for the Gigi Party. After a colorful New Year's special edition, Gigi is back on the Left Bank, enhanced by a live performance from a well-known artist on the Parisian scene. The day after the release of his latest single Boyz II Men, Le Diouck will have the pleasure of taking the stage at the trendiest cinema in Paris. Tickets are available on shotgun starting from 15 euros, a sweet price for an evening that promises to exceed your expectations.

22 Rue Guillaume Apollinaire, 75006 Paris