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France is a country which is known for its rich culture and history. Among many attractions, the festivals in France are one of the spectacular events. From traditional carnivals to film festivals and dazzling light shows, these celebrations showcase the country’s rich culture, culinary and historic heritage. France hosts hundreds of festivals annually, each with its unique touch. Whether you are a foodie or a music lover, French festivals offer unforgettable experiences. In this blog, you will explore the most iconic festivals of France and their significance.
10 Festivals In France
Festivals in France blend history, art, religion, and traditional customs. They offer unique experiences that reflect the country’s heritage and creativity.
1. Cannes Film Festival
Photo: bestentours / Wikimedia Commons
Cannes Film Festival is known to be one of the most glamorous and prestigious festivals in France and also known to be the most famous Festival in the world, held in the city of Cannes, where most celebrities filmmakers gather to celebrate the world of cinema, which includes showcasing the red carpet premieres and the special award called the Palme d’Or award. This Festival is known to be the hub of the global cinema industry, and it is held in the month of May every year. Beyond the screenings, it also hosts workshops and many exclusive parties.
Month: Mid-May
Location: Cannes, France
2. Bastille Day (Fete Nationale)
Photo: Marie-Lan Nguyen / Wikimedia Commons
Bastille Day is celebrated on July 14th of every year, marking the storming of the Bastille prison in 1789, also known as one of the turning points in the French Revolution. You can enjoy the grand parade in Paris, the world-famous military procession on Champs-Élysées, parties, and dancing at the Fireman’s balls across the fire stations. It gives you a chance to blend with the locals, and you can also enjoy fireworks at the Eiffel Tower for 30 minutes with a breathtaking view. One can visit early to get the perfect spot to witness it.
Month: Every year on July 14th
Location: Paris
3. Carnival Of Nice
Photo: Carnaval.com Studios / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Carnival of Nice became an official event in the year 1873. The Carnival of Nice is an extravagant spectacle of parades, flower battles, and floats. It happens in the month of February. This Festival features the iconic flower battle (Bataille de Fleurs), costumed performers, and giant floats, and the night ends with fireworks, creating a magical atmosphere. If you want to enjoy the carnival, it is essential to secure the perfect spot along the Promenade des Anglais, and you can also join the street parties and savour the local delicacies like chickpeas and pancakes.
Month: Mid to late February
Location: Promenade des Anglais,place Massena, Nice, France
4. Avignon Festival
Photo: Marianne Casamance / Wikimedia Commons
The Avignon festival is one of the most prestigious performing arts events, founded in 1947 by actor Jean Vilar. This post-war cultural revival transformed into a global stage for theatre, dance and experimental performances. It happens in July in the city of Avignon and in churches, palaces and open-air venues, including the Palais des Papes. It includes 2 different programs called the “IN” festival and the fringe “OFF” festival in France for curated productions and independent acts. There is a massive demand for the IN acts, so booking early is recommended.
Month: July (First 3 – 4 weeks)
Location: Avignon, Provence
5. Fete des Lumieres (Lyon festival Of Lights)
Photo: CC0 Public Domain / pxhere / Image For Representation Only
This festival originated as a tribute to the Virgin Mary in the year 1852. It happens every year in December from the 6th to the 9th. It is a 4-day event that transforms the city with beautiful light installations, artistic displays, and projections. There is also a traditional candle, a tradition where the locals place the candles in their windows as a symbol of honouring the Festival. You can also get free access, as most of the installations are walkable, with some premium paid exhibits as well. You can also try local treats like hot wine and pralines, and explore the hidden gems in Vieux Lyon as well.
Month: December (6th – 9th)
Location: Lyon’s City Center
6. Strasbourg Christmas Market
Photo: francois / Wikimedia Commons
The celebration highlights include the excellent Christmas tree towering 30 metres high and themed villages that showcase traditional crafts, the cathedral square, the medieval-style stalls with artisanal gifts, and some workshops for making Christmas decorations. You can enjoy the glittering nights of the city, climb the cathedral platform for a beautiful panoramic view and try the mulled wine spiced Christmas cookies, and capture the golden hour at Petite France’s Timbered houses, the morning mist and the cathedral reflection in the river.
Month: Strasbourg, France
Location: November to December
7. Menton Lemon Festival
Photo: CEllen / Wikimedia Commons
This Festival is one of the unique festivals of France and attracts over 2,00,000 visitors annually. The origin of this Festival was when some local hoteliers thought of celebrating Menton’s citrus groves, which were already famous across Europe for their quality and fragrance. This Festival in France is celebrated by displaying citrus sculptures with specific themes and massive installations of lemons and oranges. The live parades, which include the day and night parades with the display of lights, music, and dancers, also feature 200-plus performers in grand costumes, the golden garden of lights, and some local traditions, which include citrus competitions.
Month: Mid-Feb to Early March
Location: Menton, France
8. Jazz a Juan
Photo: CC0 Public Domain / pxhere / Image For Representation Only
Jazz a Juan is one of Europe’s prestigious and longest jazz festivals in France. It started in 1960 when there were some locals organising an open-air concert, after which the Festival gained a lot of fame among all Jazz lovers, and today it remains a benchmark for music excellence. This Festival gives an experience of world-class performances, stunning views, and some beachside concerts. You can also try local specialities like Socca and Pan Bagnat. You can make dining reservations at the Le Perroquet or Les Pêcheurs and enjoy dinner at waterfront tables and a private beach club experience at the Festival.
Month: Mid to late July
Location: French Riviera (Juan-les-Pins)
9. Beaujolais Nouveau Festival
Photo: Sheba_Also / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
This Festival in France is also known as the Festival of Wine and is celebrated every third Thursday in the month of November. The Beaujolais Nouveau festival is celebrated on the event of the first release of wine in the Beaujolais region to harvest that specific year’s wine. It is a vibrant festival in France that welcomes all the wine lovers on a date to toast for the fruity red wine. The Festival traces its roots to 1951, and by the 1970s, the Festival of France became a global phenomenon. Today, it remains a beloved tradition of the country.
Month: November
Location: Beaujeu
10. Paris Fashion Week
Photo: Anastasiia Ivanova / Wikimedia Commons
The Paris Fashion Week (PFW) is one of the top fashion shows that sets global trends. It started in 1973 under the French Federation and has become one of the top international shows. Today, Paris Fashion Week showcases over 100 brands and designers across the world. The Paris Fashion Week transforms into a fashion playground from runway extravaganzas where iconic designers showcase their pieces and are displayed at iconic venues like the Grand Palais or along the Seine River. The front row is reserved for exclusive viewing for celebrities, editors, and influencers.
Month: Late September to Early October / Late February to Early March
Location: Paris
The festivals in France offer unforgettable experiences that celebrate the nation’s rich culture, creativity, and history. With the cinematic glamour of Cannes or sipping wine at the Beaujolais, there is always a festival to captivate you. These festivals transform your ordinary experiences into the most memorable ones and make sure you delve into the country’s culture. If you want to indulge yourself in the French traditions and culture, plan your trip today with TripxL.
Cover Photo: Yann Caradec / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
