5 things to do in Paris this weekend

The holiday season is in full swing, and even though winter seems determined to shroud us in its gloom, the weekend is near—a breath of fresh air before the New Year's Eve frenzy. Sure, the cold doesn’t invite lingering outdoors, but it’s high time to step out of your cocoon. The streets, less crowded but still lively, offer activities for every taste. Discover what Paris has in store this weekend to end the year on a high note.

Where to eat: Chez Ajar

Under the colorful facades and cobblestones of Place Sainte-Marthe, ajar quietly establishes itself as a neighborhood bistro that defies categorization. Created by Sophie-Marie Larrouy, Ruben Curiel, and Justine Audoin, the place embodies a contemporary take on bistronomy, featuring cuisine that flirts with creativity without sacrificing accessibility. Here, the tortilla becomes a star, and traditional dishes are reborn, enhanced by impeccable technique and multicultural inspirations. Enjoy smoked chili polenta fries, marvel at a chicken skin-chestnut caramel sundae, and toast with pickle spritzes. All in an atmosphere perfect for big group dinners, late-night feasts, and ultra-generous lunches for €25—a deal that might just become your new ritual.

To discover: Olga de Amaral at Fondation Cartier

In the luminous setting designed by Jean Nouvel, Olga de Amaral, the matriarch of Colombian Fiber Art, offers a retrospective where gold and linen intertwine to tell another world’s story. Through nearly 80 works—some leaving Colombia for the first time—the Fondation Cartier unveils a textile immersion, blending pre-Colombian tradition and modernism. The pieces, suspended in space like mirages, capture every light variation. Here, a golden weave glimmers like a solar echo; there, knotted threads evoke forgotten landscapes. Lina Ghotmeh orchestrates a subtle scenography, balancing the monumental with the lightness of these "three-dimensional paintings." A perfect dialogue with the surrounding nature. Until March 16, head to the ground floor and be captivated: an immersive journey through light and textures awaits.

Where to have fun: At the Cinémathèque

Between foie gras and family debates, you could say the holidays are already a horror movie. So, why not embrace the theme at the Cinémathèque this weekend? The Cinémathèque continues the second chapter of its horror cinema anthology. A masterful dive into terror, orchestrated by the genre’s legends. On Friday, ease into it with The Omen: Arkasha Stevenson’s Origin, before plunging into the chilling classic The Omen. Saturday offers vintage horror fans a treat with Vampyr and Night of the Demon. For 80s enthusiasts, John Carpenter’s Fog is a must. Sunday? Kiyoshi Kurosawa delivers a chilling diagnosis with Cure, followed by Hideo Nakata’s iconic Ring. And to finish strong: A Nightmare on Elm Street.

Where to shop: At Olalaa

Never before have tights looked so chic. Long relegated to discreet accessory status, they are now gloriously rehabilitated by Olalaa. Designed by Camélya Bouida, they’re no longer just a functional nylon layer but a true style statement. The brand’s first collection embodies this vision with reimagined camo patterns and eye-catching colors. These tights, now the centerpiece of your outfit, add an unexpected, standout touch.

Where to party: At La Machine du Moulin Rouge with Quartiers Rouges

This Friday, La Machine du Moulin Rouge will host a special edition of Quartiers Rouges, the club’s iconic party, to end the year in style. This time, DJ and producer Anetha will headline the lineup with futuristic, cutting-edge techno beats that promise to captivate dancers until dawn. For the occasion, London’s renowned FOLD club takes over La Chaufferie, bringing its unique party vision. The impressive central lineup features Anetha, Young Marco, VBK, and James Newmarch B2B with Voicedrone. A night that promises to be a melting pot of avant-garde techno, magnetic house, and energy worthy of London’s finest nights.