Floral Friday

 

 

Pink today. Gone tomorrow.

 

Still time to see magnificent magnolia trees in bloom in Paris parks and squares, but not for long.

Thespian Thursday

Caught in the act.

 

A masked actor hands out leaflets at a metro entrance in Montmartre.

 

Théâtre Funambule

53 rue des Saules 75018 

  

Below: from Le Bal des Voleurs

A comedy (in French)

  

                                                 photo image: Le Funambule

 

 

***

 

 Montmartre is dotted with intimate theaters (typically under 100-150 seats) with an authentic, off-the-main-drag charm often featuring contemporary plays, comedy, and emerging companies and playwrights. These small neighborhood venues tucked away in some of the most picturesque and upscale parts of the butte - near the Moulin de la Galette, on leafy squares... - make for delightful evenings that usually end somewhere nearby for drinks or even a late dinner and lively discussion. For the latest shows, tickets, or any changes, be sure to check official sites. - BPJ

 

Window Wednesday

 This shop, renowned for its brioches aux pralines roses, stocks a variety of original gift ideas.

 

Pâtisserie Chocolaterie Pralus

9 rue des Petits Carreaux 75002 

 

Table Tuesday

 

 

Grab a blanket and claim a chair.

 

Above: lunchtime on lively market street rue Montorgueil

Mocha Monday

 

 

Paris runs on coffee... One espresso at a time.

  

Sit-down Saturday

 Shopping and stopping for lunch in the Passage Vivienne.

 

Floral Friday

 

Pink takes over at the Jardin du Palais-Royal... One magnolia at a time.

 

***

Heralds of spring:

Every year the Jardin du Palais-Royal, a short walk from the Musée du Louvre, surprises with a vibrant display of Asian magnolia trees, easily (and often) mistaken for cherry blossoms. Introduced in 1992 at the request of then-Culture Minister Jack Lang, they’re fairly new arrivals: sixteen deciduous trees that bloom dramatically in early spring, as seen this year, around March 6. Plumpish buds begin to appear on bare branches before any leaves, and at their peak create a striking contrast against the Buren columns, green lawns and surrounding architecture. But the spectacle is fleeting. Lasting just one to two weeks before the petals are scattered to the winds like pink confetti, photographers, locals, and visitors flock there from early til late, phones / cameras in hand, eager for an iconic Parisian moment that blends beauty, nature and casual city life. - BPJ 

 Jardin du Palais-Royal

 Hours: 8 AM til 8 PM every day