A popular Paris tradition of recent years, the temporary beaches along the Seine and the Bassin de la Villette, has reopened for the year, despite fears that it would have to be canceled because of the Covid-19 pandemic. And this year, Paris Plages has a new feature: float-in cinema.
The outdoor movie, which can also be watched from deck chairs, comes with a fleet of 38 small electric boats, each accommodating a group of up to six people who are together. Although indoor cinemas have been allowed to reopen, attendance has been very low.
The ‘plages’ run for about six weeks each summer, closing at the end of August. They have been a summer feature since 2002, when they were opened by former Mayor Bertrand Delanoe. In addition to sand and cinema, activities have included outdoor gyms, table football and a host of children’s activities. This year, some activities have had to be canceled or modified.