Hello Paris lovers,

Paris is humming again - terraces are buzzing, metro seats are harder to find, and the rentrée is around the corner. But late August still has its charms: golden sunsets, quieter parks, and those last long evenings that feel like a gift. Here’s your Thursday pocket guide - crisp, playful, and just a bit Parisian.

TODAY IN PARIS - Quick Local Snapshot

• 🌤 Weather: 26 °C / 79 °F this afternoon, sunny with a breeze. Tonight: 18 °C / 64 °F.

• 🎶 Key Event: Rock en Seine festival begins at Domaine de Saint-Cloud - Arctic Monkeys headline tonight.
  
  
• 🚇 Metro Tip: Expect extra traffic on Line 10 toward Boulogne — festival crowds.

WHAT'S ON - This Week’s Picks

• 🎨 Art & Culture: “Chagall, Paris-New York” - Grand Palais Immersif, until Nov. 3.
  
  
• 🍇 Food & Markets: Grape harvest tours at Clos Montmartre - a rare taste of Parisian wine.
  
  
• 🚲 Outdoors & Fun: Roller Parade - every Friday night, hundreds of skaters cruising through Paris streets.

📜 Did you know?

The Obelisk of Place de la Concorde: A Timeless Witness to Parisian History

At the center of Paris’s Place de la Concorde stands the striking Luxor Obelisk, linking France to ancient Egypt across thousands of years.

This 23-meter monument, carved for Pharaoh Ramesses II in the 13th century BCE and once guarding the Luxor Temple, was created from a single block of granite and adorned with detailed hieroglyphs.

Gifted by Muhammad Ali Pasha in 1831 and installed in Paris in 1836, its arrival and installation were celebrated feats of engineering and diplomacy.

Through history, the obelisk has borne witness to everything from ancient rituals to the excitement of the 2024 Summer Olympics, where Place de la Concorde hosted major urban sports.

Recent discoveries by Egyptologist Jean-Guillaume Olette-Pelletier revealed new insights hidden in its hieroglyphs, enriching its story.

Today, the Luxor Obelisk remains a timeless symbol of Parisian heritage and cross-cultural connection.

Emotional Corner - Heart of Paris

Josephine Baker Honored with Vibrant Mural in Paris

Paris has unveiled a vibrant mural honoring Josephine Baker, the legendary U.S.-French performer and civil rights activist, in the heart of the 19th arrondissement.

This striking piece, created by urban artist FKDL for the Paris Colors Ourq street art festival, beautifully brings Baker’s enduring legacy to the city’s streets.

Born in St. Louis, Baker sought freedom in France in 1925, swiftly captivating Paris with her electrifying performances and spirit.

Her life extended far beyond entertainment — she worked as a French Resistance spy during World War II and joined Martin Luther King Jr. in the U.S. civil rights movement.

At the mural’s unveiling, her son Brian Baker, one of the twelve children she called her “rainbow tribe,” spoke warmly of her memory.

The mural stands as a powerful symbol of freedom and resistance, echoing Baker’s history as the first Black woman inducted into France’s Panthéon.

This moving tribute highlights her lasting influence on French and global culture.

🍽️ Le Procope - Saint-Germain-des-Prés

Le Procope: Paris's Historic Café Embraces Modern Elegance
A Timeless Blend of Tradition and Contemporary Charm

Nestled in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Le Procope stands as a testament to Parisian history and culinary excellence. Established in 1686 by Sicilian visionary Francesco Procopio dei Coltelli, it holds the distinction of being the city's oldest café.

Over the centuries, Le Procope has been a gathering place for intellectuals and artists. Luminaries such as Voltaire, Rousseau, and Benjamin Franklin once engaged in profound discussions within its walls. The café's ambiance, adorned with crystal chandeliers and historical artifacts, offers patrons a journey through time.

In recent years, Le Procope has seamlessly blended its rich heritage with modern amenities. The introduction of a dedicated tea room provides a cozy retreat for guests to savor gourmet pastries and artisanal ice creams. This addition reflects the café's commitment to evolving while honoring its storied past.

The menu pays homage to traditional French cuisine, featuring classics like Coq au Vin and Tête de Veau. Each dish is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring an authentic gastronomic experience. The hidden terrace offers a serene setting for outdoor dining, further enhancing the café's charm.

Le Procope's dedication to excellence extends beyond its culinary offerings. The café actively participates in community initiatives, such as La Semaine Solidaire, supporting culinary workshops for youth and addressing food insecurity. This engagement underscores its role as a pillar of the Parisian community.

For those seeking a blend of history, culture, and fine dining, Le Procope remains an unparalleled destination. Its enduring legacy and commitment to innovation ensure that it continues to captivate both locals and visitors alike.

📍 13 Rue de l’Ancienne Comédie, 75006 Paris

YOUR TURN - Interactive !

Send us your photos of:

• A hidden courtyard

• A curious street detail

• An odd shopfront

• A rooftop view
  
  

👉 The most original will be featured in next Thursday’s issue — and the winner gets a surprise prize! 🎁

THE WINK

Paris doesn’t say goodbye to summer - it simply changes its dress. 😉