6 Ideas for Enjoying European Museum Night with the Family

At the Quai Branly Museum

Want to wander through a museum at dusk to listen to birdsong or be captivated by stories about nature? For the 2026 edition, the Musée du Quai Branly (^{7th arrondissement}) promises a wonderful escape. On the agenda: a collaborative mural to color as a family, mini tours to uncover the secrets of the collections, and a sound immersion in the world of the “Africa Fashion” exhibition. Above all, don’t forget to strike a pose at the photo booth to capture this magical adventure!

At the Musée des Arts et Métiers

Join us for a nighttime tour of the Musée des Arts et Métiers (Paris City Center) featuring activities designed for young visitors. Flash tours and group demonstrations will be offered throughout the evening. For example, you can discover Clément Ader’s airplane, learn how Foucault’s pendulum works, or get hands-on with the first phonographs. An engaging and educational journey exploring major mechanical and scientific inventions.

At the Rodin Museum

This year, the Rodin Museum (^{7th arrondissement}) is spicing up its European Museum Night with a totally sizzlingMexican-themed evening! Imagine your children strolling through the sculpture garden to the sound of mariachis, between two creative workshops offered at the Atelier Rodin. Together with them, you’ll admire the sculptor’s masterpieces while grooving to the rhythm of folk dances. Don’t miss: the group reggaeton workshop.

At the Cinémathèque Française

Poupoupidou! This year, the French Film Library (^{12th arrondissement}) is rolling out the red carpet for a night of glamour, all thanks to Marilyn Monroe. In addition to checking out the special exhibition dedicated to her, the whole family is invited to join the fun: sparkling and colorful drag performances, vocal jazz concerts, and more. Young film buffs can also explore the world of Georges Méliès between all the glitz and glamour.

At the Palais de la Porte-Dorée

For European Museum Night 2026, the Palais de la Porte-Dorée (^{12th arrondissement}) will transform into a dance floor with Pamoja, an evening conceived by choreographer Wanjiru Kamuyu. Here, there’s no question of staying seated and silent: from Middle Eastern dabkeh to the vibes of American clubs, including African and Breton dances, young and old alike are invited to get up and move to the rhythm of a mix of cultures from all corners of the world.

At the Museum of Relief Maps

For a European Night of Museums full of adventure, head to the Musée des Plans-Reliefs (^{7th arrondissement}). Through dramatized tours, giant puzzle games, and family challenges, the museum’s impressive historical models will come to life at nightfall. You might bump into Louis XIV or Napoleon as you turn a corner, solve mysteries as a team, and trace the course of history while having fun.