Planning to be in Paris over the next few months? Need an excuse to go? The only reason I ever need to visit Paris in the spring is the possibility that I might find myself strolling on the banks of the Seine in the mist— straight out of a Doisneau photo. However, if you’re looking for a bit more excitement, here is an eclectic smattering of interesting events and openings happening in the City of Lights this spring. Bon voyage et amusez-vous bien!

Le Festival Européen du Film Indépendant
March 12-March 14 2010
(European  Independent Film Festival) Between March 12- March 14, Paris will welcome over 60 of the top independent films made in Europe last year. Tickets range in price between 5-8 Euros, and all of the films are shown at these two locations:

Cinéma Le Grand Action
5 rue des Ecoles
75005 Paris
Métro : Cardinal Lemoine ou Jussieu

Théâtre le Triomphe
5, Rue Blainville
75005 Paris
Métro : Monge

elles@centrepompidou, women artists in the collections for the National Modern Art Museum
Centre Pompidou
May 27, 2009-February 21, 2011
If you’re a fan of contemporary creations by female artists, head to the Centre Pompidou  this spring (and into next winter) for this multifaceted exhibition. www.centrepompidou.fr

Le Carré des Ateliers de Paris (Paris Artist Expo and Sale)
First Saturday of the month between March and December 2010
From 10am to 7pm, artisans and artists in a variety of genres offer products for sale (including decorative objects, fashion accessories, jewelry, clothing, furniture, sculptures and lamps). Located on the Boulevard Richard Lenoir near Breguet Sabin metro station.
Métro : Bastille lines 1, 5, 8 or Bréguet Sabin line 5

The Paris Opera Ballet presents Siddhartha
March 18 – April 11 2010
With music by composer Bruno Mantovani and set design by visual artist Claud Lévêque, choreographer Angelin Preljocaj explores the story of the man who was to become Buddha.

Yves Saint Laurent at the Petit Palais
March 11 – August 2010
On March 11th, the Musée des Beaux Arts at the Petit Palais will open its first ever exhibition dedicated to high fashion- and the subject of the show is none other than the beloved French designer, Yves Saint Laurent (deceased in 2008). This comprehensive retrospective is sure to please design lovers and fashion aficionados.
Musée du Petit Palais
Avenue Winston Churchill
75008 Paris
01 53 43 40 00
Metro station : Champs-Elysées-Clémenceau or Concorde
RER C, Invalides ; RER A, Charles-de-Gaulle-Etoile
Full price: €11
Reduced price: €8
Half price: €5.50

Indochine at Stade de France
June 26, 2010
The 80s band Indochine is celebrating their 30th year performing together at Paris’ premier sports arena. Ticket prices range from 40-60 Euros and can be purchased online at