20 Best Festivals in France You Must Experience

France is renowned for its beautiful landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. This country also boasts a wide array of festivals that are celebrated throughout the year, drawing locals and tourists alike to its charming streets, picturesque villages, and iconic cities. 

Whether you’re passionate about art, history, or music, France offers something for everyone. From the iconic Carnival of Nice to the legendary Bastille Day, this article will guide you through the top festivals in France this year that you must experience.

20 Best Festivals in France

Below are the top 20 upcoming festivals in France, each offering a unique and exciting experience.

1. Bastille Day (La Fête Nationale)

• The National Day of France

Bastille Day is the most significant and unique festivals celebrated in France, held annually on July 14th. It commemorates the storming of the Bastille prison in 1789, a key event in the French Revolution. 

The day is marked with grand parades, particularly the military parade on the Champs-Élysées, fireworks, and concerts. It’s a patriotic celebration of France’s independence, filled with joy, music, and national pride.

What to Experience:

• Watch the military parade on the Champs-Élysées
• Enjoy the spectacular fireworks display over the Eiffel Tower
• Take part in local street parties and dances

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2. Carnival of Nice (Carnaval de Nice)

• A Spectacle of Color and Fun

Held in February, the Carnival of Nice is one of the world’s largest and most famous carnivals. With its roots in the 13th century, the event features vibrant parades, extravagant costumes, and grand floats. 

The carnival celebrates the arrival of spring, bringing together music, dance, and local traditions. It’s a dazzling spectacle that attracts thousands of visitors to the French Riviera every year.

What to Experience:

• Participate in the flower battle (Bataille de Fleurs)
• Watch the grand parades featuring intricate floats
• Join in the festive street performances

3. Tour de France

• The Ultimate Cycling Challenge

The Tour de France, held every July, is the most prestigious and challenging cycling race in the world. Stretching over three weeks, the event covers various regions of France, with cyclists competing in intense stages. 

The race is followed by millions of spectators, both in person and via broadcast, as it weaves through the beautiful French countryside.

What to Experience:

• Watch cyclists tackle grueling mountain climbs and fast-paced sprints
• Join in the lively fan atmosphere along the race route
• Explore the iconic finish line at the Champs-Élysées

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4. Cannes Film Festival (Festival de Cannes)

• A Celebration of Cinema

One of the most prestigious film festivals in the world, the Cannes Film Festival takes place every May in the glamorous French Riviera town of Cannes. It’s where filmmakers, actors, and celebrities from around the world gather to showcase their latest cinematic works.

The festival is an iconic celebration of the art of film, complete with red-carpet events and award ceremonies.

What to Experience:

• Attend film premieres and red-carpet events
• Explore the Cannes Film Market
• Spot celebrities and enjoy international films

5. Montmartre Grape Harvest Festival (Fête des Vendanges de Montmartre)

• Celebrating French Wine Culture

Held in October, the Montmartre Grape Harvest Festival celebrates the wine culture of Paris’s iconic Montmartre district. 

During the event, the area’s vineyards harvest their grapes, and local festivities take place in the charming streets, with wine tasting, folk music, and a lively parade. It’s a unique and fun way to experience Parisian culture and gastronomy.

What to Experience:

• Take part in wine tastings from local producers
• Enjoy music, dance, and food stalls
• Watch the grape harvest procession through the streets

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6. Fête de la Musique

• A Celebration of Music

On June 21st, the Fête de la Musique takes over the streets of France, with free music performances in cities, towns, and even rural villages. 

From jazz to rock and classical, musicians of all genres take to the streets, parks, and open-air venues, making it a celebration of sound and creativity. Everyone from amateur to professional musicians participates, creating an atmosphere of community and joy.

What to Experience:

• Enjoy live music performances across cities
• Discover new and emerging talents
• Dance along to the rhythm of the street performances

7. Christmas Markets (Marchés de Noël)

• Holiday Magic Across France

From late November through December, Christmas markets fill the streets of major cities like Strasbourg, Paris, and Lyon, offering a magical holiday atmosphere. 

Visitors can enjoy festive decorations, handcrafted gifts, mulled wine, and delicious seasonal treats like roasted chestnuts and gingerbread. The markets are a great way to immerse yourself in the Christmas spirit.

What to Experience:

• Shop for handcrafted holiday gifts
• Taste traditional Christmas treats
• Explore the festive decorations and light displays

8. La Fête des Lumières

• The Festival of Lights

Every December, Lyon hosts the spectacular Festival of Lights, where the city transforms into a magical wonderland of light displays. 

The event celebrates the history and culture of Lyon, with artists creating stunning illuminations on buildings, parks, and monuments throughout the city. It’s a mesmerizing display of creativity and technology.

What to Experience:

• Explore the beautiful light installations across the city
• Take part in the cultural events and exhibitions
• Enjoy the festive and family-friendly atmosphere

9. Salon du Chocolat

• A Sweet Treat for Chocolate Lovers

The Salon du Chocolat, usually held in Paris every October, is the world’s largest event dedicated to chocolate and cocoa. It brings together chocolatiers from around the globe to showcase their most exquisite creations. 

Visitors can indulge in tastings, attend workshops, and learn about the rich history and production of chocolate.

What to Experience:

• Taste gourmet chocolates from top chocolatiers
• Attend chocolate-making workshops and demonstrations
• Purchase unique chocolate products and souvenirs

10. Fête de la Saint-Jean

• Celebrating the Summer Solstice

Held on the night of June 23rd, Fête de la Saint-Jean is a French celebration of the summer solstice. The event includes bonfires, music, dancing, and local traditions. It’s a lively festival marked by community gatherings, especially in the southern regions of France.

What to Experience:

• Join in the bonfire lighting and dancing
• Enjoy traditional music and festivities
• Celebrate the start of summer with locals

11. La fête de l’Humanité

• A Festival of Politics and Music

The Fête de l’Humanité, held every September, is a unique festival that blends political debates, music, and culture. It is organized by the French newspaper L’Humanité and attracts political leaders, activists, and artists. 

It’s a great way to experience French political culture while enjoying performances from popular bands and musicians.

What to Experience:

• Attend political debates and discussions
• Enjoy performances by famous musicians
• Participate in cultural workshops and exhibitions

12. Fête du Citron (Lemon Festival)

• A Citrus Wonderland

Held annually in Menton, on the French Riviera, the Fête du Citron (Lemon Festival) takes place in February and celebrates the region’s renowned lemon harvest. 

The town is adorned with incredible sculptures and decorations made entirely of lemons and oranges. It’s a citrus lover’s dream come true, with a range of fun activities and events.

What to Experience:

• Explore the lemon and orange sculptures
• Attend the grand citrus parade
• Taste lemon-inspired dishes and desserts

13. La Noche de la Vela

• The Night of the Candles

La Noche de la Vela is a beautiful festival held in the town of Séguret, where thousands of candles illuminate the narrow streets in a dazzling display. The event, usually held in July, is accompanied by local music, dance, and a celebration of Provence’s culture.

What to Experience:

• Wander the candle-lit streets of Séguret
• Enjoy live performances by local musicians
• Sample regional delicacies

14. The Fête de la Saint-Trophime

• Honouring Saint Trophime

The Fête de la Saint-Trophime in Arles is a traditional festival honoring Saint Trophime, the patron saint of the town. 

Held in May, it features colorful processions, traditional costumes, music, and local dance performances. It’s a deep-rooted celebration of Arles’ religious and cultural history.

What to Experience:

• Participate in the colorful procession
• Watch local folk dances and music performances
• Explore the history and heritage of Arles

15. La Paris Jazz Festival

• Jazz in the Heart of Paris

The Paris Jazz Festival takes place during the summer months in Parc Floral, one of Paris’s most beautiful parks. 

The event brings together jazz musicians from all over the world, offering a range of performances, from experimental to classic jazz. The festival creates a relaxed, open-air atmosphere for music lovers.

What to Experience:

• Enjoy open-air jazz concerts
• Relax in the beautiful gardens of Parc Floral
• Discover new jazz talents

16. La Fête de la Musique des Universités

• University Music Festival in Toulouse

In Toulouse, the La Fête de la Musique des Universités festival takes place in June, showcasing performances from university students. This free, open-air event brings together young musicians from across France to perform everything from rock to classical music.

What to Experience:

• Watch performances by university musicians
• Dance along to various music genres
• Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Toulouse

17. Les Vieilles Charrues

• Celebrating music in Brittany

Les Vieilles Charrues is one of France’s largest music festivals, held annually in Carhaix, Brittany. This festival, founded in 1992, draws large crowds for its diverse lineup, which spans multiple genres from pop and rock to electronic and folk. 

With more than 250,000 attendees, it has become a major cultural event in France, bringing together music lovers and performers. The festival is known for its lively atmosphere and beautiful rural setting, making it a unique experience for those who love live music.

What to Experience

• See performances from world-famous artists
• Dance and enjoy the lively festival atmosphere
• Explore the picturesque Brittany countryside
• Experience the festival’s welcoming spirit and diverse music

18. Festival d’Avignon

• Celebrating Theatre and Performing Arts

The Festival d’Avignon is one of the world’s most important theatre festivals, held each summer in the city of Avignon in southern France. 

Founded in 1947, it has become a global hub for contemporary theatre, with performances staged in both traditional theatres and unconventional outdoor spaces like the famous Palais des Papes. 

What to Experience:

• Attend groundbreaking theatre performances
• Explore theatre in alternative spaces, like the open-air courtyard of the Palais des Papes
• Enjoy workshops and exhibitions that showcase the performing arts

19. La Fête de la Saint-Jean 

• Midsummer Bonfire Festival 

Celebrated on June 24th, La Fête de la Saint-Jean is a traditional midsummer festival marked by bonfires, dancing, and festivities. 

Originating in the Provence region, the festival is a way to celebrate the summer solstice, with people gathering to light bonfires, sing, and dance late into the night. 

What to Experience:

• Participate in bonfire ceremonies and traditional dances
• Enjoy local music and entertainment around the fire
• Visit rural villages where the festival is celebrated in its most traditional form

20. La Fête des Vendanges de Montmartre 

• A Wine Harvest Celebration 

Held in the famous Montmartre district of Paris every October, La Fête des Vendanges de Montmartre is a celebration of the grape harvest. It’s a colorful event full of wine tasting, parades, music, and gourmet food. 

The Montmartre vineyard, one of the few remaining in Paris, becomes the heart of the festivities. 

What to Experience:

• Taste local wines and learn about the Montmartre vineyard
• Join in the lively parades and processions
• Enjoy traditional French dishes and wine pairings

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FAQs

What is the best time to visit France for festivals?

The best time to visit France for festivals depends on your interests. For music lovers, the Fête de la Musique in June is a must, while wine enthusiasts may prefer the Montmartre Grape Harvest Festival in October. 

Are there any festivals in France that focus on food?

Yes, France hosts a variety of food-focused festivals. For example, the Salon du Chocolat in Paris showcases the world of chocolate, while the Fête du Citron in Menton celebrates the region’s famous lemon harvest. 

There are also numerous wine festivals, such as the Montmartre Grape Harvest Festival, that celebrate French gastronomy.

Can I attend a festival in France if I don’t speak French?

Absolutely! While knowing French can be helpful, many festivals in France, especially larger ones like Bastille Day or the Carnival of Nice, are welcoming to international visitors. 

Many people working at festivals speak English, and many events have multilingual signage and guides. You’ll still be able to enjoy the festivities and immerse yourself in the atmosphere.

What is the Carnival of Nice known for?

The Carnival of Nice is famous for its vibrant parades, stunning floats, and colourful flower battles (Bataille de Fleurs). It is one of the world’s largest carnivals, and it marks the beginning of spring with music, dance, and a spectacular display of creativity in Nice.

Are the festivals in France family-friendly?

Yes, many festivals in France are designed to be family-friendly. 

Events like La Fête de la Musique, La Fête des Vendanges de Montmartre, and the Christmas Markets are perfect for families, with plenty of activities for children, including music performances, parades, and food stalls.

What is La Fête de la Saint-Jean all about?

La Fête de la Saint-Jean is a traditional midsummer festival, celebrated with bonfires, music, and dancing. It marks the summer solstice and is particularly popular in southern France. 

The festival brings people together in rural villages to enjoy lively famous celebrations in France around the fire.

How do I attend the Cannes Film Festival?

The Cannes Film Festival is an exclusive event, and obtaining tickets can be challenging. However, you can attend by gaining accreditation if you are part of the film industry, or by participating in public events and screenings. 

The festival is held annually in May and attracts filmmakers, celebrities, and film enthusiasts from around the world.

Are the Christmas Markets in France open throughout December?

Yes, Christmas markets which are a big part of the Christmas festival in France typically open in late November and continue until Christmas Eve. 

The most famous ones, such as those in Strasbourg and Paris, offer a magical atmosphere with festive decorations, crafts, and delicious seasonal treats throughout the entire month of December.