This weekend, Paris takes on the atmosphere of Bahia. From September 10 to 13, 2026, the Lavage de la Madeleine celebrates its 25th edition with four days dedicated to Afro-Brazilian cultures. What’s in store? A free parade on Sunday, featuring more than 700 artists and nearly 60,000 people expected to attend, according to organizers.
The main event
On Sunday, September 13, meet at 11:00 a.m. sharp at Place de la République for the start of a parade covering approximately 4 km to La Madeleine. The program features samba dancers, batucada percussionists, maracatu, capoeira, decorated floats, and 15 Afro-Brazilian folk groups. A special float bringing together Brazilian and French artists is also planned for this anniversary edition.
But take note: this is no ordinary carnival. Pristine white replaces the glitter, and the parade carries a message of peace, diversity, and the preservation of Afro-Brazilian cultures. At 2 p.m., Bahian women dressed in white carry out the ritual washing; next, a Catholic priest and a babalorixá from Bahia will lead a prayer, after which the women will place scented water and flowers before sweeping the steps of the Madeleine. A moment straddling the sacred and the profane.
A Bit of Brazilian History
Created in 2002 by Bahian artist Robertinho Chaves and organized by the Viva Madeleine association, the event is inspired by the Lavagem do Bonfim in Salvador de Bahia, recognized as part of Brazil’s intangible cultural heritage since 2013.
Besides the parade, what else is there to do?
The festivities kick off on Friday with Caroliina Mafioza, Samba da Quebrada, and DJ Orelhafor “Brazilian Vibes” at the Voltaire Consulate, followed by dance workshops on Saturday. On Sunday evening, head to the Pavillon Wagram for the “Mada Fête” featuring Jau and Robertinho.
Practical Information
The parade is free and does not require a reservation. To get to République, take lines 3, 5, 9, or 11—line 8 does not serve that station. And be sure to wear comfortable shoes and white clothing so you can blend in with the procession.
Brazilian Vibes
Date: September 11, 2026
Location: Voltaire Consulate, 14 Avenue Parmentier, 75011
Price: €20
Mada Fête
Date: September 13, 2026
Location: Pavillon Wagram, 47 av Wagram, 75017
Price: €20 to €75