Vibe Check: Parc des Nations at the Paris 2024 Olympics
|
Listen to this story
|
PARIS, FRANCE: The 2024 Olympics might be about records, medals, and competition, but occasionally, you need a break from all the athletic intensity. Enter the Parc des Nations at La Villette, the ultimate cultural playground where countries flaunt their finest in food, music, and sheer joie de vivre. Think of it as the Olympic Village’s much cooler, more cultured cousin, where the competition is all about who throws the best party. Spoiler alert: everybody’s winning.
Club France: Vive la Vibe!
Fans watch Olympics on the big screen at Club France. (Jean-Baptiste Gurliat / Ville de Paris)
First stop, Club France. If you’ve ever wondered what it feels like to be French for a day (beyond mastering the art of the smouldering gaze), Club France is the place to be. This pavilion is the epitome of French chic – minus the stress and plus a whole lot of fun.
Expect to find yourself surrounded by fit French volunteers, who, let’s face it, are probably better at everything than the rest of us. But instead of being intimidating, the atmosphere here is friendly and exuberant, like a giant family reunion where everyone’s just really good at sports. There’s live music, of course, because what’s France without a lively soundtrack? And for those who need sustenance beyond sportsmanship, the food offerings are enough to make you consider defecting to France permanently, and there’s more brown stuff on offer than flows down the River Seine.
But the real pièce de résistance? The big screen. Imagine your favourite French athletes performing under the stars while you sip on a glass of the pink. It’s like Parisian nightlife had a baby with the Greek games, and everyone’s invited to the baptism. Tourists have called Club France the “vibrant heart” of the Parc des Nations, and who are we to argue with tourists? They’re always right – especially when they’re not.
Casa Brasil: Samba, Sun, and Serious Fun
At the Casa Brasil in the Parc des Nations (19th arrondissement of Paris), visitors can follow the competitions to the rhythm of Brazilian culture. (R.Le Dourneuf/20 Minutes)
Next, we samba over to Casa Brasil, where the vibe is the only thing more infectious than the beats. If you didn’t get your groove on at Club France, you certainly will here. The pavilion is a non-stop carnival of colour, sound, and the kind of joy that makes you question why you don’t live in Brazil already.
From the moment you walk in, it’s like being teleported to Sao Paulo, minus the airfare and jet lag. The air buzzes with the sound of music, and don’t be surprised if you find yourself swept up in an impromptu dance lesson. After all, what’s a visit to Casa Brasil without learning a few moves? Even the most rhythmically challenged will feel like dance floor royalty after a samba session here.
And the food? Let’s just say that if you haven’t had Brazilian food yet, you haven’t lived. The meats are grilled to perfection, the caipirinhas are as potent as they are delicious, and the atmosphere is nothing short of a celebration of life. Brazilian culture is all about bringing people together, and Casa Brasil nails it, creating a space where strangers become friends over plates and beats.
The pavilion should be praised for its authenticity and energy, with some visitors returning multiple times to soak up the sounds, sports, and atmosphere – even the wall of slippers. If Club France is the big show, Casa Brasil is the surprise house party.
Ekhaya: Home is Where the Heart (and the House Music) Is
Staff at Ekhaya – South Africa House at Parc des Nations, on the night of the Olympics Closing Ceremony. (Joe Ruzvidzo/Sideline)
Finally, we make our way to Ekhaya, which literally means “home” in isiZulu. Trust me, you’ll feel right at home here – if your home happens to be filled with the sounds of house music and the sweet smells of a South African braai. The Ekhaya pavilion at Little Villette is a warm, welcoming space where the spirit of Ubuntu is alive and well.
From the moment you step in, you’re greeted by the infectious smiles of the hosts, who embody the South African spirit of hospitality. The pavilion offers a rich cultural experience, from music performances to fashion and exhibits that transport you to the heart of South Africa. Visitors can watch live Olympics events in the viewing room, or chill in the large garden to the sound of Amapiano and sample the food on sale – thick, chunky boerewors rolls with peri-peri sauce and Mrs Balls chutney.
But what really sets Ekhaya apart is its focus on community. This isn’t just a place to learn about South African culture; it’s a place to connect with it on a deeper level. The pavilion has been a hit with both locals and visitors, who praise its authenticity and the sense of belonging it fosters. Whether you’re here to cheer on the South African athletes or soak up the vibe, Ekhaya is a must-visit.
The Verdict: La Villette is Where Everyone Wins
The Parc des Nations is more than just a collection of houses; it’s a celebration of humanity, where the spirit of the Olympics extends beyond the stadiums and into the heart of Paris. Each pavilion offers a unique experience and enough entertainment for all ages.
The reviews are in, and the consensus is clear: the Parc des Nations is a big hit. It’s where cultures collide in the best possible way, where food, music, and sport come together to create something extraordinary. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the Parc des Nations offers a chance to experience the world without leaving Paris.
So, if you’re in town for the Games and looking for something to do between events, or just need a break from all the adrenaline, head to the Parc des Nations. It’s the ultimate Olympic hangout, with an atmosphere as diverse as it is delightful, and everyone leaves feeling like a winner.
The vibe is, indeed, correct.
