Le Zénith de Paris Concert Venue

One of the biggest Parisian concert halls, Le Zénith is located along the Ourcq Canal and stands out from other venues in Parc de la Villette thanks to its distinctive red, cubic exterior.

Built in 1983 as an initiative of Jack Lang, Minister of Culture at the time, Le Zénith de Paris was conceived as a temporary structure meant to be dismantled three years later. But, much like the Eiffel Tower, it remains standing today thanks to its popularity. In fact, 15 Zéniths have since cropped up throughout France, from Montpellier to Strasborg and Caen.

Inside the small Parisian arena with a capacity of 6,300, hawkers walk through the stands selling baguette sandwiches. Past concerts at Le Zénith de Paris include French names like Serge Gainsbourg, Renaud, Zaxie, Shy'm, and David Guetta as well as international performers like Busta Rhymes, Bruce Springsteen, Marilyn Manson, Nicki Minaj, Feist, The Who, Britney Spears, and The Strokes.

Many musicians have produced live albums at Le Zénith de Paris, including France Gall, Johnny Hallyday, and The Cure.