Paris, August 6 – In the summer of 2025, a free, ephemeral outdoor swimming pool in the 18th arrondissement of Paris transformed the Poissonniers sports center into a popular summer spot. This initiative, part of the ‘Paris Plages 2025’ and ‘Paris en Seine’ programs, provided a refreshing escape for residents and visitors alike. The success of this temporary facility has sparked discussions about its potential return in future summers.
A Refreshing Oasis in the Heart of the 18th Arrondissement
The concept was simple yet effective: a large, demountable pool set up in the middle of a sports center, offering free access to both local residents and curious visitors. Located near Porte de Clignancourt, the ‘Baignade estivale – Poissonniers’ was a key component of the ‘Paris-Baignade’ plan, which includes several free summer pools across the city, such as the well-known Bassin de La Villette.
The Poissonniers site offered more than just a swimming area. It featured a solarium for sunbathing, showers, and changing cabins, providing a comprehensive alternative to traditional indoor pools. The project, supported by the City of Paris and the 18th arrondissement Town Hall, aimed to bring a fresh and accessible leisure option to the community during the hot summer months.
Operation and Accessibility
The official season for the ‘Baignade estivale – Poissonniers’ ran from Saturday, July 5, to Sunday, August 17, 2025. Entry was completely free, with capacity limits in place to ensure a comfortable experience for all. The pool operated with extended hours:
- Monday to Tuesday & Thursday to Friday: 10:00 to 20:30
- Saturday: 10:00 to 21:00
- Sunday: 10:00 to 18:00
The schedule was structured to accommodate both group visits and individual access. From Monday to Friday, leisure centers utilized the pool from 10:00 to 12:00 and from 14:00 to 16:00. Individual visitors had dedicated slots from 12:00 to 13:00 and from 16:00 to 20:30. A midday break for complete evacuation occurred from 13:00 to 14:00, Monday through Saturday. For any future editions, the municipality advises checking updated dates and times on paris.fr before visiting.
Beyond Swimming: A Hub of Activities
The pool was just one part of the offerings at the Poissonniers sports center. Around the water, a wide range of free activities was available, catering to various interests and age groups:
- Badminton
- Basketball
- Archery
- Field hockey
- Table tennis
- Foosball
- Pickleball
- Trampoline
Aqua gym sessions were also part of the active program, designed to encourage both physical activity and cooling off. The City of Paris announced that animations were accessible for children aged 7 and above, with an inflatable castle specifically reserved for 4-9 year olds.
Tips for Visitors
To make the most of a day at such a spot, visitors were advised to keep a few practical tips in mind:
- Bring a swimsuit, towel, flip-flops, and a filled water bottle.
- Regularly apply sunscreen, especially when using the solarium.
- Aim for public slots later in the day to avoid peak crowds.
- Supervise children at all times, even in shallow areas.
- Consult the ‘Baignades estivales’ section on the City of Paris website before heading out, to check opening status and any specific instructions.
The success of the ‘Baignade estivale – Poissonniers’ in 2025 highlights the demand for accessible and refreshing urban leisure options. The positive reception from the community and the comprehensive range of activities offered suggest that such initiatives could become a recurring feature of Parisian summers, providing much-needed relief from the heat and fostering community engagement.
Source: https://www.maison-travaux.fr/actualites/a-paris-cette-piscine-ephemere-gratuite-en-plein-air-dans-le-18e-pourrait-devenir-votre-spot-de-lete-635842.html
