Observatory of Paris - 400 year celebration
400 Years ago Galileo, the italian Astronomer and Physicist, discovered the first of several important observations in our galaxy. 2009 has been declared 'The Year of Astronomy' by Unesco and the observatory is planning several events throughout the year to celebrate. Come and see the stars from Paris. in the 1667 Perreault building, in the heart of Paris. Visits are guided and last two hours, must be pre-booked. Only on Tuesday and Thursdays.
Metro: Denert-Rochereau
www.grandpublic.obspm.fr
61, Av. de l’Observatoire, 75014 (Enter 77 ave Denfert-Rochereau)
Chinese New Year
February 10th. Head to the 13th arrondissement for authentic Chinese and Vietnamese restaurants and Celebrations. Each year there is a big street carnival commencing at 1.30pm via the Rue du Disque and continuing via Ave d'Ivry, Ave de Choisy and the Place d'Italie.
This area is worth exploring anytime of year and represents 'Chinatown' in Paris.
Metro: Mason Blanche
Winter - Ice Skating Hotel de Ville
There are two major skating rinks, one at the Hotel de Ville and one at Montparnasse. Skates are reasonable around 5 euros. Free entry if you have your own. Join in the Winter fun, even if you can't skate it's a great place to learn.
Commences early December till late February.
Hours of operation:
Mon-Thu 12pm-10pm; Fri 12pm-12am; Sat 9am-12am; Sun 9am-10pm
Les Marionnettes
Where would Paris by without a Puppet show, these shows are held regularly in Parks across Paris, Normally every weekends and Wednesdays (15.30) when children all over France, do not go to school or go half day. The site below provides details and times of each show being held in Paris.
Three venues we know of are: Parc des Buttes-Chaumont (avenue Simon Bolivar, rue Botzaris)
Parc Montsouris & Rond Point des Champs Elysées
(angle avenue Matignon et Gabriel).
www.parisparis.com
Pinder - Jean Richard Travelling Circus
During the year 'Pinder' tours France with its circus show, probably the oldest, since 1854, they have toured the globe, I remember a Pinder show in Australia in 1970s. It's old fashioned circus routine, Lions dominate the show and the usual magic and clown shows. Tickets are reasonable, from 15 euros to 50. They are back in Paris November 2008 until 11 January 2009, otherwise they are on Tour.
www.cirquepinder.com
Le Cirque d'hiver - Winter Circus
In the heart of Paris, the 11th, this circus has been running since 1934. Acts from Russia, USA and Germany make up the team of trapeze artists, lion tamers and of course clowns (from Italy in 2008). Winter show commences October 2008. Check their site for correct pricing. M:Ligne 8 Filles du Calvaire
www.cirquedhiver.com
110 rue Amelot, 75011 t: 01 47 00 62 32
Parc Astérix
The French competition to Disneyland. The park is themed around different periods of history, the Roman Empire, Vikings, La Gaule etc. Lots of rides similar to Disney. Activities all year round.
www.asterix.tm.fr
Puppeteering workshops
A wonderful atelier offering puppet shows and workshops. Learn how to make hand, glove, stick or shadow puppets. There are different workshops held throughout the year. Grouped by ages of 6 or 10 years they are reasonably priced, between 8 and 10 euors. See their website for the full program of show and ateliers or email atbgresa@free.fr
M: Ledru-Rollin
atelierbonnegraine.free.fr
Enter via 117 rue du Faubourg St. Antoine