Oct 02 2009
Nuit Blanche 2009
Paris’ art and culture scene is the spotlight during Nuit Blanche, Paris’ all-night culture fest that takes place each Fall.
October 3rd, 2009 will mark the 8th edition of this cultural exhibition, as some of Paris’ most interesting art, musical and theatre-performance groups put on special performances throughout the night. The three focal points for the event in 2009 will be the areas of Buttes-Chaumont, Chatelet-Marais and the Quartier Latin.
Events will include musical performances (from classical to hip-hop), art installations from sculpture to photography, projections, fighter planes, abstract art, watercolor, video installations, crystal sculpture, mixed media, musical and light installations, and much more.
In yet a further extension of this celebration, the cultural event also extends to ten neighboring cities and numerous cities throughout Europe and beyond. “Nuit Blanche” literally translates to “White Night,” but it has a secondary meaning in French for “All-Nighter.”
Although its origination is claimed by three different cities (Paris, St. Petersburg and Berlin), the indisputable fact is that, since 1997, the cultural celebration has spread to many cities, which have each given it a name in the local language. In Italy, it’s “La Notte Bianca,” in Spain “La Noche en Blanco,” “Lejl Imdawwal” in Maltese, among many others. (It’s also taken other forms, such as “White Linen Night” in New Orleans, an all-night art celebration that takes place during mid-summer.)
In addition to official events, there are countless (literally hundreds) of spots throughout the city with special things to see and do. Galleries, museums, even swimming pools: the list is endless and admission is generally free to the public.
Some tips on getting around
This is October in Paris, which can mean chilly weather and unexpected showers. Dress warmly, and bring that all-important rain poncho and umbrella. (We recommend bringing along a compact travel umbrella. If you’re going to be taking pictures, this often will slip right into a camera or shoulder bag.)
Understand that Nuit Blanche is a popular citywide event, which means lots of people out and about. Although crime in Paris is rare, as always when traveling, keep a sensible eye on your belongings, any special documentation or traveler’s checks in an inside-clothing travel pouch.
Watch the time! Unless you’re somewhere that’s easy to reach by cab, understand the Métro closes at 2 AM, which may mean you have to leave a lot sooner if you need to make more than one connection. It does reopen again at 5:30 AM, if you’re feeling truly adventurous. Be aware it may be packed toward the later part of the night.
You can download the full schedule of events and map here:
http://goparis.about.com/gi/o.htm?zi=1/XJ&zTi=1&sdn=goparis&cdn=travel&tm=115&f=21&su=p284.9.336.ip_p531.50.336.ip_&tt=11&bt=0&bts=0&zu=http%3A//www.nuitblanche2009.com/les-buttes-chaumont.html%231
As always, in addition to the above keep a good Paris walking map on you, such as “Paris Pratique” (available at most Tabac and news agents).
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