Fast facts (bookmark me)
-
When: Typically early April to early/mid-June. In 2025 it ran 4 Apr–9 Jun. Check the official site for the next edition’s exact dates. (Foire du Trône)
-
Where: Pelouse de Reuilly, Paris 12ᵉ (edge of Bois de Vincennes). (Paris je t'aime - Tourist office)
-
Getting there: Métro line 8 (Porte Dorée / Porte de Charenton / Liberté) or Tram T3a (Porte Dorée). (Foire du Trône)
-
Scale: ~300–350 attractions over 10 hectares—France’s biggest fête foraine. (Paris je t'aime - Tourist office)
-
Opening night deal: A charity inaugural evening with a special pass that cuts ride prices by ~50% for the night (pre-sale often ~10€, on-site ~15€; details vary by year). (Sortir à Paris)
Why go (even if you’re not Parisian)
Because it’s the anti-algorithm: real screams, sticky fingers, and strangers arguing sweetly about mustard vs. ketchup on their merguez. Foire du Trône is where Paris loosens its scarf—families, couples, teenagers, and bewildered expats (hi 👋) all under one twinkly sky. And it’s wonderfully curated chaos: classic chenilles and chaises volantes, ultra-modern thrill rides, haunted houses, and snack stands that smell like cinnamon ambition.
How to plan it (for non-French speakers & out-of-towners)
-
Pick your window: Weekday afternoons = chill; weekend nights = max vibes + bigger crowds. (Check hours each season on the official site.) (Foire du Trône)
-
Transport > taxis: Line 8 drops you near the entrances; follow the music. Tram T3a is stroller-friendly. (Foire du Trône)
-
Deals & budget: Watch for opening-night charity passes, digital coupon books, and ride bundles on the official site. Bring a small card + some cash; not every stand takes cards. (Sortir à Paris)
-
Food strategy: Share portions (churros, crêpes, gaufres, pralines). Then earn bragging rights on the big wheel photo. (You’re doing it for the language immersion, obviously.)
-
Safety basics: As with any busy venue—keep bags zipped, avoid bulky backpacks at night, and note the nearest exits. See official tourist safety tips if you’re new to Paris. (Paris je t'aime - Tourist office)
Micro-history you can drop casually
The “Trône” in the name nods to the historical Barrière du Trône; the fair’s lineage goes back to medieval market days and celebrated its millennium in 1957. In 1964, it settled by the Bois de Vincennes, where it lives its best spring life today. (Paris je t'aime - Tourist office)
What to ride/eat/do (starter pack)
-
Grand roue (Ferris wheel): skyline selfies + digestion station.
-
Chaises volantes (swing ride): feels elegant; hair becomes avant-garde.
-
Thrill towers & coasters: for the “I’ll just hold your bag” friend who absolutely won’t.
-
Classic fair snacks: barbe à papa, crêpe sucre-citron, merguez-frites, pomme d’amour. (One napkin is never enough—embrace it.)
Mini French phrasebook (use these & you’ll make friends)
-
Deux jetons, s’il vous plaît. — Two tokens, please.
-
C’est pour deux adultes / un enfant. — For two adults / one child.
-
On peut payer par carte ? — Can we pay by card?
-
On fait la grande roue ? — Shall we do the Ferris wheel?
-
C’était trop bien ! — That was awesome!
Language tips by level
-
A1: Memorize ride & snack words: manège, grande roue, crêpe, ticket, sortie, toilettes. Point + say one word with a smile.
-
A2: Practice polite requests: Je voudrais… / On pourrait… ? Ask for prices: C’est combien ?
-
B1: Small talk in line: Vous venez d’où ? / Il y a toujours autant de monde ! Give simple opinions: J’ai préféré la maison hantée.
-
B2: Use connectors: D’abord… ensuite… finalement… Compare rides: celui-ci est plus rapide que…
-
C1+: Drop the history nugget; debate “fête foraine vs. parc d’attractions” and whether the Foire du Trône counts as living heritage. Cite dates like a boss. (Paris je t'aime - Tourist office)
Practical links (to go deeper)
-
Official site (dates, coupons, access): foiredutrone.com. (Foire du Trône)
-
Paris tourist board overview (EN/FR): history, scale, tips. (Paris je t'aime - Tourist office)
-
Opening-night charity info & annual updates: Sortir à Paris. (Sortir à Paris)
-
Another quick facts page: JDS Paris listing (dates/hours). (jds.fr)
-
General safety guidance: Paris je t’aime + Interior Ministry’s multilingual guide. (Paris je t'aime - Tourist office)
Your turn 👇
Have you been to the Foire du Trône? Which ride made you scream in two languages? Drop a tip for first-timers (best metro exit, best snack stand, quietest time). A1 to C-levels welcome—post in French, English, or gloriously mixed “Franglais.”