French chanson and variété: 12 concerts to see in Paris in 2026

The French variety scene is on the move, changing and coming together. Parisian venues are announcing dates that speak to the heart. As a result, audiences are looking for clear points of reference to help them choose without stress.

French variety: what’s on stage right now

The concert guide lists events for all ages. There are intimate formats and highly anticipated evenings. What’s more, French variety invites you to theOlympiaLa Cigale and Le Zénith, depending on the season.

Our programming focuses on getting close to the audience. Some evenings play the acoustic card, others rely on scenography. As a result, fans of French variety music will find very different atmospheres.

Weekday slots alternate with weekends. The calendar stretches from last-minute announcements to major tours. So it’s good practice to book early and compare venues.

“Songs tell our lives best when shared on stage.”

Confirmed artists and new faces

Headliners rub shoulders with up-and-coming talent. Songwriters and composers try out new repertoires. In this way, French variety music reinvents itself without abandoning its traditional codes.

Duets and collaborations are gaining ground. Some concerts revisit well-known repertoires with new arrangements. On the other hand, others focus on new creations and short formats.

• Check sit/stand configuration before purchase
• Compare categories and visibility by room
• Choose an official ticketing channel
• Anticipate transport and departure times
• Budget for merchandising and instructions

Ticketing, venues and formats: what to expect

Large venues advertise multiple categories. Audience sizes vary according to the stage and seating layout. For example, you can listen to French variety music standing up or comfortably seated.

Vanessa Paradis signs “Le retour des beaux jours”, produced with Étienne Daho and Jean-Louis Piérot. The album, priced at €24.99, confirms her place in the French variété scene.

Ticket offices often specify opening hours. Some dates offer an opening act, sometimes a very short one. So arriving on time avoids missing the essential.

Programming trends and audiences

Programming alternates between tributes, new creations and live reissues. Bridges between pop, folk and French variety are becoming frequent. In addition, concept concerts give new life to key albums.

The stage also values technical sobriety. Artists prefer lightweight sets and small crews. In this way, logistics are adapted to today’s touring constraints.

Practical tips for enjoying the concerts

Analyzing the venue changes the experience. A dynamic pit is ideal for those who want to vibrate. On the other hand, side seating ensures comfort and good visibility.

Preparing your journey is reassuring, especially on a weekday evening. Checking the latest practical information on the day helps to prevent the unexpected. In this way, the French variety is experienced with less stress and more pleasure.

After the concert, take a quiet moment to prolong your listening experience. Rereading the setlist helps memorize the highlights. As a result, French variety continues to resonate far beyond the venue.

• French variety