Le Papillon Social #4

Week of May 12th to May 18th

Hey there 👋 I’m Daniela, and every week I round up the coolest events in Paris — most of them free or affordable. Each edition is a bit different depending on what’s happening. Here's what I’d add to your calendar for May 12–18:

During the Week:

  • 13-18/05: Art & Music Week @Quai de la Photo (Free Entry) 🌊

    Photography by day, riverside DJ sets by night. Find a full lineup of free cultural events, from vernissages to open-air dance floors.

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  • 13/05: Beer Pong Tournament @Fitzroy (Free with RSVP) 🍻

    A fun & chaotic night of beer pong with teams of 2–4, good vibes, and a little friendly competition.
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  • 14/05: Gabriela Mistral Tribute @Instituto Cervantes (Free Entry) 📚

    Marking 80 years since her Nobel Prize, this evening explores the poet’s work, legacy, and powerful social voice. Event will be held in Spanish.
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  • 15/05: JEUXDI @ParisLongchamp (913€) 🐎
    The best afterwork party with horse racing, DJs, street food & dancing on the grass (Physical ID required for entry.)
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  • 15–25/05: Rooftop Cinema @Hôtel Paradiso (Free Entry) 🎬
    Outdoor screenings of cult favorites from Cannes, including Holy Motors and Juste la fin du monde. Arrive early, no reservations.
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During the Weekend:

Psst... May 17 is Nuit des Musées! 🏛️ didn’t include all the participating museums in this email, but just a little reminder: museums all across Paris are staying open late (for free!)

  • 16/05: Le Grand Bal de l’Amour @Place de la Bastille (Free Entry) 🌈
    An open-air LGBTQIA+ celebration with karaoke, drag shows, DJs, and love.

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  • 16–18/05: 48 Hours of Urban Agriculture (Free Entry) 🌿
    A weekend of farm visits, gardening, and eco-events across Hauts-de-Seine.

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  • 17/05: Open-Air Jazz @Jardin du Luxembourg (Free Entry) 🎷
    Live jazz from Plat Band de L’Ysieux at 2 PM, followed by film & pop music by Orchestre de Moissy at 5 PM.
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  • 17/05: Eurovision Watch Party @Bastille (Free Entry) 🎤
    Join the crowd to watch the Grand Final live on the big screen.
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  • 17/05: David Hockney Night Visit @Fondation Louis Vuitton (Free Entry) 🎨
    Explore 70 years of Hockney’s work, from bold paintings to digital installations, during this special late-night opening as part of Nuit des Musées.

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  • 18/05: Frida Kahlo Walking Tour (15€) 🎨
    Follow Frida’s footsteps through Paris with this cultural route designed by the Instituto Cervantes. In Spanish, limited spots.
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  • 18/05: Acoustic & Literary Nap @Maison de la Poésie (12€) 😴
    Lay back, relax, and drift off during this dreamy combo of poetry readings and live acoustic music. You’re literally encouraged to fall asleep.
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  • 18/05: Minima’s Bingo @La Felicità (Free Entry) 🎱
    Drag, Prosecco, sass, and chaotic bingo rounds. Prizes include shots, bottles, and dinner for two.
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Pop-Ups & Markets:

  • Friendly Neighborhood Creative Market (Free Entry) 🎁

    Happening this weekend, May 17–18, it’s the perfect spot to pick up a handmade, heartfelt Mother’s Day gift.
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  • Vinyl Sale @Les Amarres (Free Entry) 💿
    Also running May 17–18, dig through 5,000+ vinyls starting at 5€, with DJ sets and surprise sellers all weekend long.
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  • Bonne Maman Pop-Up @Bonne Maman Boutique 🍓
    From now through May 25, enjoy jam-making, chocolate mousse workshops, madeleine demos, and a swing in a sweet Marais garden.
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  • Good Girl Coffee Shop by Carolina Herrera @Galerie Joseph ☕
    Running May 16–24, this red velvet café pop-up features signature lattes (matcha cherry, ube, black sesame), daily DJ sets, and a latte art workshop on May 24.
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  • Paloma Wool Pop-Up @CURRENT (Free Entry) 👗
    Open daily until June 15, the cult Spanish brand brings its dreamy knits, prints, and slow fashion magic to the heart of the Marais.
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À la semaine prochaine 🦋✨

Daniela