The Foire de Paris, one of the largest events in Paris, has set up shop at Porte de Versailles, running from April 30 to May 11, 2025. This annual fair features over 1,100 exhibitors showcasing a diverse range of products, from everyday items to innovative inventions. Among the highlights this year is the largest European exhibition dedicated to the home, alongside the Auto Mobil Paris, which will display the latest in automotive technology.
This year, the Caribbean will take center stage at the fair, with daily events from 10 AM to 7 PM, extending to 10 PM on May 10. Visitors can expect a vibrant program filled with carnival celebrations, concerts, parades, and more than 60 shows throughout the fair. The peak of the festivities will be the 'nocturne' event on May 10, featuring DJ sets, a giant guinguette, and performances across various music genres, including K-Pop and electro.
On May 8, Paris will resonate with the sounds of Africa, as two exceptional concerts are scheduled. Janydia will perform at the Village Talents d’Afrique within the Foire de Paris, while Etienne Mbappé will take the stage at Baiser Salé. Janydia, a rising star in Afro-descendant music, will deliver a vibrant show, infusing her performance with soul, Creole singing, and ancestral percussion. Her latest track, "Ancrée," serves as a manifesto for love and political engagement.
Meanwhile, Etienne Mbappé, a master of jazz bass from Cameroon, will present his new project, Country-Side, at Baiser Salé. His performance promises a more introspective experience, weaving memories of childhood and maternal lullabies into his music. Both concerts offer unique perspectives on African creativity, with Janydia embodying youthful energy and Mbappé inviting reflective listening.
On May 7, Minister Véronique Louwagie visited the Guadeloupe pavilion, which showcases the work of 40 artisans. The pavilion, adorned in carnival colors, serves as a vibrant representation of the region's economic dynamism. During her visit, Louwagie engaged with local leaders, including Ary Chalus, President of the Région Guadeloupe, and Simon Vainqueur, President of the Chambre des métiers et de l'artisanat de Guadeloupe (CMAG).
The discussions highlighted the challenges faced by Guadeloupean artisans, such as high social and fiscal charges. Vainqueur emphasized the need for reforms to alleviate these burdens and improve access to raw materials. Louwagie assured that the forthcoming law on Overseas territories aims to address these issues, reaffirming the importance of supporting local artisans who contribute to cultural preservation and economic growth.
In a notable success story, Nathalie Nicolas from Poligny has developed an innovative stainless steel lid rest, which can hold one to two lids and features a removable cup. Her idea, born from a personal accident in 2012, led to a patented design that she presented at the Concours Lépine during the Foire de Paris. Surprisingly, she won a silver medal for her creation, which has already seen sales of 1,000 units out of the 5,000 produced.
Nicolas's journey to bring her product to market was fraught with challenges, particularly in securing a patent, which was initially denied in 2019 but finally granted in 2023. Her lid rest, priced at 19.99€, has garnered attention for its practicality and safety, allowing cooks to handle heavy lids without risk of burns.
Additionally, the HEBDO France-Antilles / France-Guyane has established a stand at the Foire de Paris to connect with its audience. Celebrating its first anniversary, the publication has generated excitement with a special edition that highlights the talents and initiatives of the Caribbean community in France. The stand has attracted political figures, including Béatrice Bellay, a deputy from Martinique, who stopped by to show support.
The HEBDO Édition Hexagone aims to provide insightful coverage of the fair, featuring culinary delights and essential information for attendees seeking to immerse themselves in the Caribbean experience. As a weekly publication, it strives to amplify the voices of the Antillean and Guyanese communities, offering a platform for dialogue and exploration of current issues.
As the Foire de Paris continues, it not only showcases innovation and creativity but also serves as a vital platform for cultural exchange and community engagement. The event is a testament to the rich tapestry of talents and stories that define the Caribbean and its diaspora in France, making it a must-visit for locals and tourists alike.
