Festivals & Events in France

France pulsates with a year-round calendar of festivals & cultural events, offering travelers an immersive glimpse into its art, music, heritage, and joie de vivre. From world-famous film premieres on the Riviera to centuries-old theatrical traditions in Avignon, each region celebrates its identity with unforgettable gatherings. Whether you’re planning to join the crowds in Cannes, dance in the streets of Paris, or marvel at illuminated monuments in Lyon, this guide highlights the top 12 festivals and events you shouldn’t miss. Below, explore dates, highlights, insider tips, and regional flavor to help you plan your French adventure around these spectacular occasions.

1. Cannes Film Festival (May)

Each May, the sun-drenched promenade of Cannes transforms into the epicenter of the international film industry. Established in 1946, the Cannes Film Festival showcases new films and premieres from around the globe, attracting A-list celebrities, directors, and thousands of cinephiles. Red-carpet screenings take place in the majestic Palais des Festivals, while parallel sections like “Un Certain Regard” spotlight emerging voices. Even if you can’t secure a badge, you can soak up the atmosphere on La Croisette—spot paparazzi around the Grand Théâtre Lumière, attend free outdoor screenings at Plage Macé, or join the open-air Cinéma de la Plage. Book your accommodation and credentials months in advance, as rooms and festival passes sell out quickly.

2. Avignon Festival (July)

The Festival d’Avignon, founded in 1947 by Jean Vilar, is Europe’s premier performing-arts festival. For three intense weeks each July, the medieval city becomes a stage for drama, dance, and experimental theatre. The iconic Cour d’Honneur courtyard of the Palais des Papes hosts classical productions, while off-site “IN” and “OFF” events take over churches, schools, and courtyards. Expect cutting-edge performances, contemporary reinterpretations of classics, and pop-up street acts. Fringe shows by independent troupes flourish alongside established companies. Tickets for “IN” performances are limited—reserve online early. For a deeper dive, attend pre-festival workshops or join a guided walking tour to discover Avignon’s hidden performance venues.

3. Bastille Day Celebrations (July 14)

July 14th, France’s national holiday, commemorates the 1789 storming of the Bastille and symbolizes liberty and republican values. Across the country, parades, fireworks, and concerts honor the occasion. In Paris, the grand military parade marches down the Champs-Élysées at dawn, followed by an evening firework spectacular over the Eiffel Tower — one of Europe’s most photographed displays. Provincial cities hold local dances (“bals populaires”), communal picnics in public parks, and fireworks over rivers or town squares. To join Parisians at the Champ de Mars for the fireworks, arrive by late afternoon, pack a picnic, and use Métro lines 6 or 8 (get off at École Militaire). Be prepared for crowded streets and heightened security.

4. Fête de la Musique (June 21)

Since its 1982 inception, Fête de la Musique has turned France—and now the world—into a giant open-air concert every summer solstice. On June 21st, amateur and professional musicians perform free shows in streets, parks, cafés, and metro stations from sunrise until well after midnight. Genres range from jazz and rock to classical, hip-hop, and world music. Major squares in Paris, Lyon, and Marseille host headline performances, while neighborhood venues spring to life with block parties. If you’re traveling with instruments, join in the fun—otherwise, simply follow the sound. Check the official city websites for schedules and stage locations. No tickets needed; donations to performers are welcome.

5. Lyon Festival of Lights (Fête des Lumières) (December)

Every December, Lyon awakens with dazzling light installations and projections across its historic districts. Rooted in a 17th-century religious tradition, the Fête des Lumières has evolved into a four-night urban spectacle, drawing nearly 4 million visitors. World-class light artists transform facades, bridges, and parks with multimedia shows—synchronized to music or interactive designs. Must-see sites include Place des Terreaux, Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, and Croix-Rousse. To avoid the largest crowds on the first evening, plan your visit for mid-week and purchase a Lyon City Card for public-transport access. Bundle up—temperatures can drop below freezing—and consider guided tours to learn about the festival’s history and techniques.

6. Nice Carnival (February)

One of the world’s largest carnivals, the Nice Carnival fills the Côte d’Azur’s capital with colorful parades, giant floats, and masked balls every February. Dating back to the 13th century, this two-week event features daytime “Battle of Flowers” flower-tossing parades along the Promenade des Anglais, and nighttime illuminated parades with music and dance. Themes change annually—past editions have celebrated superheroes, humor, and the environment—providing fresh motifs for spectacular floats. To experience VIP seating or behind-the-scenes access, book grandstand or “carnival village” packages in advance. Pair your carnival trip with a day-trip to nearby Villefranche for calmer beaches and pastel-hued streets.

7. Tour de France (July)

While not a static festival, the Tour de France is the world’s most prestigious cycling race, winding across France’s varied landscapes over three weeks each July. Fans line mountain passes in the Alps and Pyrenees, cheering riders as they battle steep ascents and fast descents. Key stages include Alpe d’Huez, Mont Ventoux, and the finish on the Champs-Élysées in Paris. To join the throngs, book accommodations near start or finish towns early—small villages sell out quickly. Alternatively, follow the caravan of sponsors’ vehicles offering freebies along the route. For an inside look, volunteer as a “Media Carrière”—local organizers sometimes recruit English-speaking helpers for logistics and hospitality.

8. Paris Fashion Week (January/February & September/October)

Twice yearly, Paris Fashion Week cements the city’s status as the global style capital. Held at venues such as the Grand Palais and Palais de Tokyo, designers from Chanel and Dior to emerging talents showcase their latest haute couture and ready-to-wear collections. While most runway shows are invitation-only, street style and public installations abound in the Marais, Saint-Germain, and around Place Vendôme. Watch for pop-up galleries, showroom events, and live streams at concept stores. If you’re a fashion insider, register via the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode months ahead. Otherwise, attend off-schedule trade shows or join guided fashion-district walking tours to soak up the atmosphere.

9. Strasbourg Christmas Market (Late November – December)

Dating back to 1570, the Strasbourg Christkindelsmärik is France’s oldest and largest Christmas market. Every winter, over 300 stalls fill the Grande Île UNESCO site, offering handmade ornaments, mulled wine (vin chaud), Alsatian biscuits (bredele), and artisan crafts. Key squares—Place Broglie, Place Kléber, and Cathedral Square—feature themed booths and a giant Christmas tree. Evening illuminations enhance the medieval streets. To experience local flavors, sample tarte flambée drizzled with Gewürztraminer or sip spiced cider. Book nearby hotels or charming gîtes months ahead. For quieter visits, aim for early mornings on weekdays; weekends can see up to 2 million visitors over the month.

10. Festival Interceltique de Lorient (August)

Every August, Lorient in Brittany hosts the Festival Interceltique, celebrating Celtic cultures from Brittany, Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Galicia, and more. Over ten days, the port city welcomes around 700,000 attendees for concerts, street parades, bagad competitions (Breton pipe-band), and traditional dance workshops. The “Grande Parade” down the docks showcases dazzling costumes and floats. Workshops teach Celtic harps, bodhráns, and Gaelic songs. Explore artisan markets selling Celtic jewelry and textiles. Festival-goers often stay in nearby campsites or rent gîtes for the week. To join the musical gatherings, purchase a “passeport” for access to both free and ticketed venues across the city.

11. Hellfest (June)

In Clisson, near Nantes, Hellfest has become Europe’s premier heavy-metal festival. Each June, 180 bands—ranging from metalcore to black metal—perform on multiple stages over three days. Organized since 2006, Hellfest attracts over 60,000 fans per day. Beyond music, the festival features tattoo artists, food trucks, and gothic markets. Camping tickets sell out rapidly; options range from basic fields to comfort glamping with showers. For a smoother experience, use the festival shuttle buses from Nantes and Angers. Hellfest’s camping community is renowned for its camaraderie—arrive early to claim a good spot, and prepare for rain by packing waterproof gear and sturdy boots.

12. Jazz à Juan (July)

Since 1960, Jazz à Juan in Juan-les-Pins on the French Riviera has attracted jazz legends from Louis Armstrong to Herbie Hancock. Held over ten nights each July in the open-air Pinède Gould amphitheater, the festival blends international headliners with emerging talents. Daytime beach concerts and jam sessions spill into local clubs and cafés; watch sunrise sets on the Plage de la Gravette. Advance tickets are essential for marquee acts; consider a “Pass Jazz à Juan” package for multiple nights. Off-season, Juan-les-Pins retains a laid-back vibe, but in July the waterfront buzzes with microphones, saxophones, and dancing crowds under the stars.

Conclusion

Whether you’re chasing stars at Cannes, dancing to street bands in Paris, or marveling at illuminated facades in Lyon, France’s festivals & events offer a kaleidoscope of experiences. Each celebration reflects regional character—from Brittany’s Celtic rhythms to Provence’s floral pageantry. To coordinate logistics, check official festival sites for dates and ticketing, and use our Transportation Guide for getting around. For tips on where to stay, eat, and explore between events, return to our France Travel Guide. Immerse yourself in the festive spirit and discover why France truly knows how to celebrate life.