Festival de la Lune 2025 in Belleville, Paris: street food and lantern festival this weekend

The Festival de la Lune returns to Belleville in a warm, family-friendly spirit. In the streets, the lantern festival brings together neighbors, curious onlookers and gourmands, to the rhythm of workshops and dances.

Why Belleville celebrates the moon

The district of
Belleville
straddling the 19th and 20th arrondissements, Belleville cultivates a strong link with Asia. This is why the mid-Autumn festival is held under the open sky, with street stalls and light parades. People gather in the late afternoon, as the lanterns light up at dusk. What’s more, the atmosphere is friendly and intergenerational.

The event highlights tradition, sharing and creation. The Festival de la Lune serves as a bridge between cultures, with no fixed folklore. Families circulate, then stop to listen to a story or taste a hot dish. On the other hand, everyone manages his or her own pace, which makes for a flexible visit.

What we see and what we experience

As we turn down an alleyway, we see colorful lanterns carried by proud children. You can also hear the drumming of the lively liondance. The Moon Festival often features handicraft workshops, calligraphy and fun stalls. The district is transformed into an open-air stage.
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At night, Belleville lights up and everyone finds their place, without fuss.

Street food takes center stage. Stir-fried noodles, kebabs and steamed ravioli are all on the menu. The more curious sample the moon cake, a symbol of family reunion. As a result, the scents guide the stroll as much as the light.

Practical and useful tips

The Festival de la Lune kicks off at the end of the day, when the lights go down. Arriving a little early helps you spot the entertainment and meeting points. Bring a small flashlight, as the streets can get quite crowded. And don’t forget water and a light jacket.

• Come early to spot the procession and workshops.
• Bring cash for street food.
• Respect the pace of children with lanterns.
• Choose an exit point to the metro.
• Find out how long it will take.

Children’s workshops go quickly, often in small groups. So it’s worth registering on site as soon as they open. You can make a small lantern or learn calligraphy. Then follow the procession at a gentle pace.

In terms of flavours, the stroll is an invitation to travel. From fragrant rice to Asian soups, then on to sweet treats. Mooncake is for sharing, as it symbolizes reunion. Indeed, this gourmet moment reinforces the festive spirit.

Culture, transmission and respect for the neighborhood

The Festival de la Lune values the transmission of gestures and stories. Volunteers patiently explain symbols and customs. We learn why the moon brings families together in autumn. And everyone participates at their own level.

Respect for local residents remains central, as the event takes place on busy streets. Put your garbage in the bins, and keep the noise level reasonable. The organizers remind us of the simple instructions that are useful for everyone. In this way, the party remains smooth and peaceful.

Highlights and tips from the field

The passage of the lion dance always attracts the crowd, with energy. To get a good view, you stand back, then move forward afterwards. The Moon Festival often includes a quiet time after the procession. This allows families to take a breather and enjoy a snack.

Night photography is seductive, but requires simple choices. Turn off the flash, as ambient light is often sufficient. A steady hand or support helps a lot. What’s more, respecting children prevents any discomfort.

To get home, use the nearby metro lines. Leave the crowds on a side street, then head for the station. Strollers fit in better if you plan ahead. In short, a calm return prolongs the good mood.

Year after year, the Festival de la Lune consolidates local social ties. Local residents are keen to take part, as the festival keeps their memories alive. Visitors enjoy a simple, beautiful and open event. In this way, Belleville shines, while remaining true to itself.

• Moon