EVENTS CALENDAR

This list, updated often, features current and future events in Provence and on the Cote d'Azur. If you have events to submit, send them to: provenceblog@aol.com and we'll do our best to share. For a great list of opera and other music festivals in France, click here. Problems with spacing below are a glitch in my program and not the result of sloppy editing!

ALL OVER FRANCE: The 100th Annual Tour de France begins Saturday June 29, 2013 in Corsica and ends Sunday July 21st on the Champs-Elysee. The Tour will hit the South of France (in Nice) on Tuesday July 2 for Stage #4...then will be doing the Cagnes sur Mer to Marseille stage (#5) on July 3. Other stages in our neighborhood are: July 4 Aix to Montpellier...and July 5 Montpellier to Albi. Sunday July 14 is Givors (South of Lyon) to Mont Ventoux for Stage #15. Monday July 15 they're in the Vaucluse for a rest day and, I'm told, will be staying in various villages from St Paul les Trois Chateaux to Carpentras. On Tuesday July 16 they leave Vaison la Romaine and head to Gap (Stage #16).My peeps tell me that they will leave Vaison from in front of  the Centre Culturel at 1:20. This is also market day so expect the town to be CROWDED! For the schedule of stages, click here. For all the info, click here.

ALL OVER FRANCE: May 18, 2013 is the the Nuits des Musées, when hundreds of museums, churches and government offices wiill stay open, free for visits, until 1 a.m. Many put on special exhibits and demonstrations and visitors can enjoy moonlit museum tours. For all the info, click here: nuitdesmusees.culture.fr

ALL OVER FRANCE: Fete de la Musique, June 21 2013. Day and night, free music will take over streets, cafes, music venues, historic sites, gardens, parks and churches all over France. For more info, see what I wrote here last year...and then click here for this year's info.

AIX: There's always something interesting happening at Chateau La Coste. You can read my recent story about it here or go to their website here.

 

AIX: One of the highlights of all the activities surrounding Marseille Provence as the European Capital of Culture in 2013 is an art exhibit called ''Le Grand Atelier du Midi: Cezanne to Matisse'' at the Musee Granet in Aix from June 13 to October 13. More than 200 paintings including works by Monet, Picasso, Renoir, Dali, Braque, Signac, Soutine, Vallotton, Dufy, Camoin, Derain, Manguin, Gauguin, Man Ray et Modigliani who were inspired by the Mediterranean region will be on display. The art dates from 1880 to the mid 1960s. Tickets are available online as of January 13, 2013 at www.mp2013.fr and at www.fnac.com. Note:  Simultaneously the Musée des Beaux Arts- Palais Longchamps in Marseille will be hosting ''From Van Gogh to Bonnard.'' (Thanks to Provence Confidential for the heads up on this event.)

 

AIX: The AAGP Computer Club meets on the first Monday of each month. Various discussions are lead about overall topics of interest, technology news, websites and general questions and answers. For further information on the club and joining the AAGP please contact 04 42 26 91 84.

AIX: All Anglo American Group of Provence (AAGP) invites all English speakers to its Tastevin wine-tasting group, held once a month. The evenings are informative but mainly social. The meetings are generally held the 3rd Thursday of the month, from 7 to 10 pm. A contribution of 25 € per tasting covers the cost of wine, cheese and bread. For info contact Ilia Kalogroulis at iliak@bigfoot.com or 04 42 92 51 55. 

AIX: The new Festival de Paques (Easter Festival) celebrates classical music with 20 concerts over 10 days. This years event was a smashing success. Dates for 2014 to be announced soon.  For info, click here.

AIX: Vide Grenier/Flea Market every Sunday at the Pont de l'Arc from 6 a.m.

AIX: There are always interesting events at Book in Bar, the English-language bookstore and cafe. It's at 4, rue Joseph Cabassol, 04-42-26-60-07. For complete info, click here or email bookinbar@orange.fr. 

AIX: The next Festival d'Aix (Opera) will be July 4, to 27, 2013. The 65th annual Festival,  under the leadership of General Manager Bernard Foccroulle, will feature five opera productions, a selection of orchestral concerts, recitals, chamber music performances, world music programs, and more than 50 events from the 16th annual European Academy of Music. For info, click here. 

APT: Luberon Jazz Festival, May 1 to 31, 2013. The 20th annual festival, featuring the new generation of French jazz musicians and numerous regional musical treasures. Plus, plenty of European and African discoveries too. For all the info: jazzluberon.net.

ARLES: The Gipsy Kings will play in the Arena Thursday June 27th, 9.30pm. For more details and booking click here. Tickets are 35 to 48€,

ARLES: The Musee Departemental Arles Antiques (the big blue museum) has too many good things coming up to list here. For all the info, 

click here or call 04 13 31 51 03. 

ARLES: Rodin: The Shadow of Antiquity"-- an exhibition at the The Musee Departemental Arles Antiques (the big blue museum). April 6 to September 1st, 2013. The world of antiquity, as well as the Renaissance, was one of the major sources of inspiration for Auguste Rodin (1840-1917).This exhibit, entitled Rodin, l’ombre de l’Antique (Rodin, the shadow of Antiquity), proposes to exhibit eight major sculptures by Rodin juxtaposed with antique pieces from the sculptor's extensive personal collection and from the major European museums (the Louvre in Paris, Madrid, Rome etc.). Full price : 8 €. Reduced price : 5 €. For info: http://www.arles-antique.cg13.fr/ or cal 04 13 31 51 03.

ARLES: The Saturday open-air market on the Place des Lices in Arles is one of the biggest in Provence. And the first Wednesday of every month, also on the Places des Lices, there's a large brocante (flea market). For more info, click here.

ARLES: If you speak French, there are always interesting things happening at the Théâtre de la Calade. For info, click here. Théâtre de la Calade, 49,Quai de la Roquette, Arles, 04 90 93 05 23, contact@theatredelacalade.org

ARLES: The next Rencontres d'Arles, the large international photo expo, will be July 1 to Sept 22, 2013. As in years past, the opening week will feature many of the most important events, opening and parties but many exhibits will continue until the end of the show. For all the info in English, click here.  

AVIGNON:  The Avignon Chapter of Democrats Abroad will host an inauguration 'apero' with the newly elected Avignon DA Chapter officers who are ready to lead DAs in Provence into the 2014 Congressional election campaign that will decide President Obama's legacy. They write: "We are eager to hear your views, ideas, and aspirations about how our chapter can work more effectively and harmoniously together in this next election cycle. And, at the same time, let's not forget to relax and enjoy the best of living in Provence. So, as this evening fades we'll sip glasses of our regional Cote du Rhone or, if you prefer, a flute or two of champagne (with, of course, a dash of Cassis!) in the elegant courtyard surroundings of the famous Hotel Europe in Avignon." Tuesday, May 21, after 18h at the Hotel Europe on the Place Crillon, Avignon. Cost: Just consume 10 euros or more per person. Please RSVP to d.shibut@free.fr or 06.60.84.32.31.

AVIGNON: Salon of the '50s to '70s. A large "rummage sale" of everything vintage. Saturday June 1st and 2nd, 2013, from 10 am to 7 pm. Location: La Grenier a Sel, Avignon. For all the info, click here.

AVIGNON: The next Avignon International One Day Antiques Market is Monday June 3, 2013. This show is dealers and pros only only so you have to have a card or other credentials. (To get credentials, click here.) Future shows will be Monday July 1, Wednesday September 18, Monday November 4 and Monday December 9, 2013. For more info click here or 04 94 03 40 72. http://www.avignon-antiquites.com/ 

AVIGNON: Emergences Festival of Young Talent is over for 2013. Dates for 2014 will be announced soon. Dance, theater, music, art and more. emergences-festival.com

AVIGNON: Alterarosa-Festival of Roses. From May 9 to May 12, 2013, at the Palais du Papes. In the prestigious Benoit XII cloister, major rose-growers from France and abroad come every year to provide a sneak preview of new varieities...among many other acitivities such as conferences, workshops and more. This year’s celebration of roses shares the spotlight with hydrangeas. Every year there's a charitable beneficiary; this year its the Geist 21 Association, which fights Down's Syndrome. A rose will be created and christened for this association, and the profits from its sales will benefit the association. Alterarosa continues its commitment to handicapped audiences by facilitating access to the exhibition and providing communication and awareness-raising.This special rose weekend is also sponsored by Jardiland. See the whole programme on : www.alterarosa.com 

AVIGNON: Camille Claudel, from grace to exile – the woman, her madness, her creation. 30 March to 2 June, Musée les Arcades.  100 years after being confined to an insane asylum and 70 years after her death, Camille Claudel is the subject of this art exhibit which pays tribute to the prodigious artist who spent the last 30 years of her life at the Montdevergues psychiatric hospital, known today as Montfavet, an outlying part of Avignon. Thirteen works will be on display, on three themes: woman, madness, creation. Original sculptures on the themes, made in the Marie-Laurencin studio, will also be displayed alongside the works by Camille Claudel. www.ch-montfavet.fr and www.camilleclaudel2013.com

AVIGNON: FORMERLY AND IN THE PAST, FROM THE CITY TO THE SEA, 11 April to 16 June 2013, at the Angladon Museum. A selection of photographs 1900-1925 from the Roger-Viollet collections. The Angladon Museum proposes a stimulating vision of the years 1900-1925, at a time, with photographs from a world undergoing tchange.   Photographers’ gaze at the first 25 years in the 20th century. 73 photographs of new trends arriving fast – the early enthusiasm for the first cars, the beginning of seaside holidays, futile elegance and useful work, the little crafts and trades in the streets, social changes, what children were up to, the changes in clothing styles with influence from the major couturiers such as Poiret and Doucet.An outstanding collection of photographs: the Roger-Viollet collections. This collection, unique in Europe, shows a century of photographs. It started with the shop of the “peddler of images”, Laurent Ollivier, on Rue de Seine in Paris, purchased in 1938 by Hélène Roger then her bequest to the city of Paris in 1985. And from 20 June to 3 November 2013: "Denise Colomb, Portraits d’artistes". www.angladon.com

AVIGNON: Mirages d'Orient, an exhibit at at the Collection Lambert and the Eglise des Celestins, runs through April 28, 2013. The exhibit showcases various aspects of the East or Orient, as visited or imagined by westerners of different eras and different continents. For info: avignon-tourisme.com

AVIGNON: Exhibition and sound-and-light show at the Popes’ Palace. A monumental show in 3D, Les Luminescences d’Avignon, from 15 August to 28 September: grandiose original night scenography to take the audience out of time and space for 35 minutes. The main courtyard of the Popes’ Palace will be dressed in light, placing the audience in the heart of monumental 3D images and sequences supported by a sound track. A 21st-century sound-and-light show prepared by Amaclio, creator of the Nuit des Invalides in Paris last spring. Entrance fee : €10/person. Dates: every evening in August, at 9.15pm and 10.15pm, and on Fridays and Saturdays in September 2013. For more info: lesluminessences-avignon.com

AVIGNON: See the Metropolitan Opera, the Bolshoi Ballet and the Netherlands Dance Theater perform live, on the large screen in high-def. The cinema is the Gaumont Pathe at Cap Sud, a large shopping mall just outside Avignon. The Met is October 2012 thru April 2013; the Bolshoi is October 2012 thru May 2013 the Netherlands Dance runs through May. For tickets and more info: cinemasgaumontpathe.com

AVIGNON: Scottish Country Dancing every Monday. Learn the dances in a fun and friendly group. Dancing in groups of 8, so you don't need to bring a partner. English- and French-speakers welcome. Mondays 2:30 to 5 pm at the Maison pour Tous, 20 Avenue Monclar, Avignon. For info: 06 80 32 16 53.

AVIGNON: Every Saturday morning at 11 am, the covered Les Halles food market hosts demos and tastings with top local chefs. For info, click here.

 
AVIGNON: There's always something good at the Calvet Museum. For info, click here.

AVIGNON: Book and Record Market. Second-hand books, records and festival posters. For info: 04 90 85 23 57 or http://www.avignon-tourisme.com/

AVIGNON: BookShare monthly rendezvous. Members lend and discuss current English-language books and visitors are welcome. The venue is Zeste Cafe, 62 Place des Corps Saints, Avignon (www.soyonszeste.fr) For more info on the next Book Share gathering, contact Dennis Shibut: 09.52.84.34.79, 06.60.84.32.31, or d.shibut@free.fr 

AVIGNON: Brocante in the Halles d'Avignon. Every Tuesday and Thursday, from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. For info: 06-08-94-71-70.

AVIGNON: The next Festival d'Avignon, the huge theater and music festival that takes over the whole city, will be July 5 to 26, 2013. The 'Off' or fringe festival will be July 8 to 31, 2013. For the main festival website, click here. For the Off Festival, click here.

AVIGNON: The Clown Festival is alas, over for 2013. Stay tuned for info on next years fest, taking place in March 2014. It's a full week of performances for all ages.  For info: 04 32 74 32 74, officetourisme@avignon-tourisme.com, avignon-tourisme.com or provenceguide.com. 

AVIGNON: Truffle Festival at Les Halles, February 2014. The large Les Halles indoor food market celebrates local black truffles, for the fifth year. This year, over fifteen chefs will demonstrate their knowledge and share tastings of truffle-based recipes. The Compagnons  des  Côtes  du  Rhône  will be proposing the best Côtes du Rhône wines to go with...and the Grand Avignon Music Conservatory, just next door, will hold conferences and other special events in conjunction with the fest. All events are free and open to th epublic. For info: festiv-halles.com. 

AVIGNON: The International Short Film Festival, 3^nd edition, will be in March 2014, at the Théâtre du Chien qui Fume. Fiction, animation, documentaries, plus the chance to meet the actors and directors, and brainstorm with young creators who will be presenting their works independently. This Short Film Festival is a way to discover the many aspects of the world of cinema through the master classes, the meetings, the demonstrations of equipment, exhibits, discussions and synopsis-writing workshops. fenetresurcourts.com

AVIGNON: 12th Annual Avignon Motor Festival will be in March 2014, at the Avignon Fairgrounds. In 2013, there were 380 exhibitors including 140 clubs. For info: avignon-motor-festival.com

AVIGNON: Les Papesses, 1 June to 11 November 2013. French artist Camille Claudel spent more of her life in the psychiatric hospital in Montfavet just outside Avignon than she did in her Parisian sculpture studio. Under her aegis, four women artists have been selected for this exhibit, four papessa of contemporary art. Their work will be shown in the Grande Chapelle in the Palace of the Popes, and at the Lambert Collection in Avignon. Louise Bourgeois, who passed away in May 2010, is featured, with her giant Spiders, among other works. American feminist artist Kiki Smith presents her first exhibit in France. Belgian artist Berlinde de Bruyckere and Jana Sterbak, a Czech-born artist living in Montreal will also be part of this pantheon of women artists. Their timeless works will be shows against the austere stone walls of the Palace of the Popes, in dialogue with the medieval imagery. The title of this exhibit, Les Papesses, refers clearly to the highly individualist status these women artists hold in contemporary art. 

BEAUCAIRE: The new cultural season (2013) at the Casino-Notre dame des Pommiers on the Place de la Republique includes performances on April 20, April 28, May 26, June 15, June 16, June 29 and July 7. For all the info: 04 66 59 26 57, beaucaire.fr.

BEAUCAIRE: If you can time it right, the Beaux Quais happens in Beaucaire every Friday evening in July and August, 2013, from 6 pm to Midnight. The quayside road is closed off to traffic and stalls are set up selling all sorts of crafts, food and more. The restaurants extend their seating onto the road and there’s live music...it’s a jolly, lively, noisy fun way to pass an evening. Starts July 5, 2013. BONNIEUX: Pottery Market, April 2014. Art and every day pottery for sale, plus pottery workshops for children, music and more. For info: 04 90 75 91 90, otibonnieux@wanadoo.fr.

CADENET: Art expo and silent auction for Amnesty International, May 25-26 at the Cadenet Cultural Center. An open-to-the-public vernissage and cocktail party will be Saturday May 25 at 6 pm, at La Laiterie (Centre Ville Cadenet, behind the church). On view will be paintings, photography and sculpture, all donated by talented local artists. For info: lisapepin@gmail.com.

CAIRANNE: Wine Market. This fun  event is a great get-together for lovers of southern Côtes du Rhône wines. Some 20 estates and cellars producing A.O.C.Cairanne be present, along with winemakers from surrounding wine appellations including Rasteau, Gigondas, Vacqueyras, Beaumes de Venise and Châteauneuf du Pape. Regional products made by artisans and/or local farmers are also part of the fun. There will be theme-based events on gastronomy and wine, cooking demos by renowned chefs and more.  Entry 5€ per person. Saturday 13 April 11am to 8pm and Sunday 14 April 2013 10 to 7pm. Les 2 Salles, Polyvalentes du village, Cairanne,  04 90 30 86 53, contact@marcheauxvins-cairanne.fr

http://www.marcheauxvins-cairanne.fr.

CAMARGUE: The Camargue Barbecue Festival takes place June 8 and 9, 2013. It's at the Domaine Paul Ricard a Mejanes, between Arles and Stes. Marie de la Mer. For info, click here.

CANNES: 66th Annual Cannes Film Festival, May 15 to 26, 2013. For the website in English, click here. 

CANNES: On Saturday May 18, the American Club of the Riveira will hold it's annual movie-themed lunch on the beach of the Belle Plage Restaurant. This year there will be a decidedly American theme, as the president of the jury will be Steven Spielberg, the couple featured on the commemorative Cannes Festival poster will be Joanne Woodward and Paul Newman, and the opening film will be The Great Gatsby. Hey Cannes, vive l'Amerique! For details watch this space.  

CARPENTRAS: Annual Truffle Market, Friday mornings, starting at 9 am, on the Place Aristide Briand, from late November to early March. Painstakingly harvested on the slopes of Mont Ventoux, the tuber melanosporum is unveiled in winter, revealed to buyers from far and wide. Hand-held scales weigh the precious truffles which are then carefully wrapped and tucked away to be used in delicious winter dishes. For more info: 04 90 63 00 78,  tourisme@carpentras-ventoux.com, http://www.carpentras-ventoux.com.  

COURTHEZON: PhotoFeel Festival, July 5 to 14, 2013. contact@photofeel.net, photofeel.net.

COUSTELLET: At the contemporary art gallery Gallerie 22, located at 267 route de Gordes, owner Jane Dreyer welcomes you at a vernissage on Saturday evening May 11, starting at 6:30 pm. The new show exhibits the work of Tetsuo Harada, Medjid Houari and Enrique Mestre-Jaime and the show runs until June 16. For info: 04 90 71 85 06,  galerie22contemporain.com. 

ENTRAIGUES EN SORGUE: Jazz Festival June 4 to June 9, 2013. jazzentraiguesfestival.wifeo.com.

FAYENCE. The International Women’s Club of the Var hold coffee mornings every Tuesday, from 10:30 a.m. to noon at the Hotel Les Oliviers in Fayence. The non-profit, English-speaking group hosts a range of social, cultural, sports and charity activities for women of all nationalities and age groups who live or spend time in the Var. For more info, contact Gillian Miller: gill@wskisoft.co.uk. 

GIGONDAS: Monday, July 22nd, 2013 is the second annual Gigondas sur Tables, bringing together guest chefs, local products and of course, the wines of the region. For info: gigondas-vin.com. Or, find them on Facebook here and on Twitter (@Gigondaswines) or call 04 90 37 79 60.

GIGONDAS: Saturday, May 25, 2013 is the annual La Croisee des Terroirs for nature loving cycle enthusiasts young and old.  It is a 10 km mountain bike trail through the vineyards of Gigondas.  You will explore their wines and vineyards along the way, meeting with the wine producers to taste and discover their wines.  At the end of the course, a picnic lunch will be served in the fields of Château de Saint Cosme. For more info and to RSVP:  promotions@gigondas-vin.com.

GRASSE: Rose Expo, May 8 to 12, 2013. For  three days the town welcomes rose lovers.  grasse-riviera.com.

ISLE SUR LA SORGUE: The 2013 fair is over...time to plan for 2014. The International Antiques Fair will be in March/April, 2014. More than 200 exhibitors in the Parc Gauthier and other sites around town.  (0)4 90 38 04 78, islesurlasorgue@oti-delasorgue.fr, http://www.foireantiquites-islesurlasorgue.fr

JONQUIERES: Traditional Provencal Festival, 01 to 31 May 2013.  The townspeople in Jonquières are very attached to Provence and Provencal traditions, and Jonquières starts off the season of traditional events with a splendid celebration of Provencal culture past and present. Old trades, craftspeople, town shops, regional products, creators. Lots of events for all ages, free of charge. The transhumance also takes place this month (date TBA), with more than 2000 sheep ambling through the village on their way to their summer fields, accompanied by musicians and the traditional tambourinaires. For info: 04 90 70 59 04, culture@jonquières.fr, provenceguide.co uk

LAURIS: Les Nocturnes. July 13 to 28, 2013 on the Castle Terrace. Music, dance and much more. Activities for all ages. For info:04 90 08 39 30. lauris.tourisme @ orange.fr , www.laurisenluberon.com

LES BAUX: What used to be the Cathedrale des Images is now the Carrieres de Lumieres...a magical space in a vast cave-like quarry at the base of the village of Les Baux. The new sound and light show is called ''Monet, Renoir...Chagall: Journeys Around the Mediterranean.'' It runs until January 5, 2014. In the second half of the 19th century many artists left Paris and the North behind, attracted by the light of the South, setting up their easels between the Spanish border and the Italian Riviera. Their artistic personalities were revealed through the contact with seascapes portraying the Mediterranean coast which they depicted in a wide diversity of styles. After a prologue devoted to Joseph Vernet, visitors will be plunged in seven sequences into the world of the Impressionists, with Monet and Renoir, the Pointillists, with Signac and Cross, the Fauves, with Camoin, Derain, Vlaminck, Friesz, Manguin, Marquet and Valtat, etc....and of course Matisse. You'll also discover the palette of bright colours used by Bonnard and Dufy, ultimately coming to one of the most important colourists of modern art - Chagall. All together you'll see, through dramatic projects, 15 artists impressions of the Mediterranean and its extraordinary light.  For hours, prices and more info: www.carrieres-lumieres.com or 04 90 54 55 56. 

LES BAUX: Learning to Taste Olive Oil class/demo at Moulin Castelas, 10 am every Tuesday and Thursday from May to September, 2013. Discover the characteristics of AOC oils from the Valley of Les Baux. For info click  here or call: 04 90 54 50 86.

LOURMARIN: YEAH Festival! Friday and Saturday, June 7 and 8, 2013. Pop, folk and rock on the terraces of the chateau. More info coming soon.

LOURMARIN:  Tuesday Jun 18th at 9:15 pm: At the Chateau de Lourmarin, enjoy a clarinette and piano concert (Beethoven, Debussy, Francaix, Chopin) with tickets at 20/25. Then on Sunday June 23rd at 9:30 pm, there will be silent French movies from 1906 to 1927 accompanied by a musical trio (piano, guitar & violin). For all the info, click here.

LYON: The city will be beautifully ablaze with sound and light installations during the annual Fete de Lumieres. If you haven't seen it, it's a must. December, 2014. For details, see www.fetedeslumieres.lyon.fr.

MARSEILLE: In 2013, a sea of lavender will bloom in a unexpected part of Provence: on the Old Port of Marseille. As part of the programme for Marseille-Provence 2013 European Capital of Culture, 4,000 lavender plants will bloom on the Old Port from June 28 to July 7 July, courtesy of the Manosque-based cosmetics company L'Occitane en Provence. Photo Opp! The plants will be sold at the end of their brief Marseille residency and the proceeds will go to L'Occitane's foundation for the preservation of lavender. Thanks to Sheila of Marseille-Provence.info for the heads up on this lovely happening.

MARSEILLE: They call it the most romantic swimming race in the world. The Monte Cristo Challenge was inspired Alexandre Dumas' Count...and it takes place in Marseille June 22 and 23, 2013. Thanks again to Sheila from marseille-provence.info for alerting me to this event. For all the info, click here. 

MARSEILLE: Mars en Baroque Festival. The 12th edition of this festival will take place in 13 locations in Marseille in March 2014. Musicians young and established will perform music from the Baroque period including operas, oratorios and instrumental music. Two concerts will also feature polyphonist songs from the late sixteenth century and the Middle Eastern oud instrument, which inspired the Western lute. Public conferences and screenings will also take place to present all aspects of Baroque art. marsenbaroque.com.
 

MARSEILLE:  At the Vieille Charite until 15 April, 2013, there are two exhibitions: one that features some of the treasures that were given to the gods in Delphi by the Marseillais in the 6th century BC when Marseille (Massilia) was one of the richest and most powerful ports on the Mediterranean. It combines antiquity, in the treasures, with modern technology with a projection of a reconstitution of all of the Marseille treasures that are now part of the Greek national treasures collection. It is in the Puget chapel. The second, "Vestiges 1991-2012", is a parallel exhibition of photographs by Magnum group member Josef Koudelka, representing the history of Europe and the Mediterranean through a series of photographs. It is in the rooms on the ground floor. Open Tuesday to Sunday 10am to 5pm. Entry: 5€. For info, click here. 

MARSEILLE: Fondation Regards de Provence opens in its new venue at the old Station Sanitaire (on the road between the cathedral La Major and the Villa Méditerrannée) on 1 March with an exhibition from its collection "Reflets de Méditerranée". The exhibition continues until June 16, 2013. Open every day 10am to 6pm (9pm on Fridays). 6€ entry. For info, click here.
 

MARSEILLE: Villa Mediterranée designed by the architect Stefano Boeri, opens in April 2013, in the area known as J4, along the sea front between the Fort Saint Jean and the cathedral La Major. It has two main public areas, one under the sea and one in the air. It will house a permanent exhibition Parcours des Méditerranées (Mediterranean trails), where visitors will be able to “see and live” the experience of the Mediterranean. There are two temporary exhibitions starting on April 9, 2013: ''The Mediterranean, our futures", and "Further than the Horizon". The full program will be available from the Villa Méditerranée website after February 20.

MARSEILLE: Live acoustic Irish music every Monday night at O'Brady's Irish Pub, 378 ave. Mazargues, 04 91 71 53 71.

MARSEILLE: May-Diterranean Contemporary Theater Festival, April 5 to May 24, 2013. Since it was founded, the Mai-Diterranée Festival has introduced the work of thousands of artists from different countries. This festival welcomes artists, poets and performers from different cultures, backgrounds and religions. Toursky Theatre, promenade Léo-Ferré, Marseilles. For info: 04 91 02 58 35 or http://www.toursky.org/

MARSEILLE: Concerts Under the Stars, from June 1 to August 31, 2013. The Silvain Theatre of Marseille will host weekly concerts in the early evening. In the courtyard of the Conservatory, at the heart of Marseille, an evening programme will take place featuring pieces of music inspired by the night - from Chopin's Nocturnes to Berlioz's Summer Nights. Additional info to be posted soon....

MENTON: Menton Lemon Festival, Feb 16 to March 6, 2013. For info, click here.MONTE CARLO: ''Monaco Celebrates Picasso'' is a tribute to the painter on the occassion of the 40th anniversary of his death. For all the info: grimaldiforum.com

MONTE CARLO: For the full schedule of The Monte Carlo Philharmonic, click here.

MONTE CARLO:  Les Ballets de Monte Carlo season runs through July 2013. For all the info, click here.

MONTE CARLO: The Printemps des Arts de Monte Carlo (Spring Arts Festival) offers 20 concerts this year over five musical weekends. March 15 to April 14, 2013. For info: printempsdesarts.mc

MONTE CARLO: The Opera Monte Carlo season is in full swing. For all the info, click here.

MOUGINS: The Eighth Annual International Festival of Gastronomy called Les Etoiles de Mougins will be September 27 to 29, 2013. Michelin three-star chef Gerard Passedat will be head up the lineup of top French chefs participating. This is a great weekend for anyone who loves good food and wine in a fabulous setting. For info: lesetoilesdemougins.com.  

MOUGINS: The fourth annual Marché Italien is April 2014 in Mougins village. Entry is free. Demos, food stands, tastings, pizza tossing and much more. Three days to discover fine Italian food and wine, including charcuterie, cheese, sweets, truffles and truffle products and more. For more info, click here.  A video is here.

NIMES: Feria de Pentecote (Whitsun). May 15 to 20, 2013. The first Féria was held in Nîmes in 1952 and the event has been growing ever since. It's six days of festivities at Whitsun and three days in September with bullfights in the arena and abrivados and bandidos with local bulls. Stroll around town, listen to peñas (small brass bands), dance the 'Sévillane' in the bodegas until late at night, eat paella in a Camargue or Seville style village, go to concerts, watch water-jousting in the Canal de la Fontaine, enjoy the evening market, attend mass in Provencal in the cathedral and watch the Pégoulade, the opening procession at the Whitsun Féria. For more info, click here. 

NIMES: Thursdays in Nimes. From 4 July to 29 August 2013, the city buzzes every Thursday evening in July and August: crafts artists, sellers of antiques etc. set up their displays in the many squares in the historic centre of the city. The markets also feature much live music—jazz, blues, flamenco, etc. For more info, click here.

NIMES: The Festival de Nîmes takes place June 29 to July 18, 2013, in the Roman Amphitheater. See the schedule here.

NIMES: The popular Artenim Contemporary Arts Show takes place 19 to 23 September 2013. One of the best-known contemporary art events in the region, it features 70 galleries, art publishers and institutions—both established and new talents. Every year the show assembles exhibitors from the whole of France and an increasing number of foreign professionals  (from Canada, South Korea, Japan, Spain, Italy, etc.). For more info, click here.

NIMES: Feria de Vendanges, September 13 to 15, 2013. This is the second féria of the year in Nîmes, and it marks the end of the temporada (the bullfighting season). It is held in the same spirit as the Whitsun event but is shorter, with three days of festivities throughout the city featuring bullfights, bulls driven through the streets, bands, bodegas and a great atmosphere. The European Heritage Days are on the same dates. For more info, click here.

NIMES: Nîmagine - Craft Show, from 1st to 11 November 2013.  The largest event of the year for crafts, professional sellers and the public. A specialised jury selects 200 artisans for the quality of their know-how and the originality of their work. For info, click here.

NIMES: Flamenco Festival, January 2014. Organised by the theatre in Nîmes. For info: click here.

ORANGE: 18th Annual Jazz Festival on the Place Clemenceau. June 24 to 29, 2013. For info: 04 90 51 57 57. 

PARIS: Musical Fountain Shows at Versaille.  Rediscover the beauty of the gardens designed by André Le Nôtre and enjoy the popular Musical Fountain Shows. Each year, the gardens of the Palace of Versailles give visitors a glimpse at the grandeur of life under Louis XIV. To the sound of Christophe Rousset’s tunes, stroll around this idyllic decor that combines luxury, grace and beauty. From 9.30am to 6.30pm on Saturdays and Sundays from March 30th throught October 27th. Also on May 8th, May 9th and August 15th, and on Tuesdays from May 21st to June 25th. Admission : 8,5€ / 6,5€. Tel.: +33 1 30 83 78 00, chateauversailles-spectacles.fr

PARIS: Keith Haring. The Musée d’Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris presents a retrospective April 19 to August 18, 2013. Almost 250 pictures on canvas and tarpaulins and from subway walls – as well as twenty monumental works – will be exhibited at Le CENTQUATRE, making this one of the largest presentations of Keith Haring’s works ever. Le CENTQUATRE  is at #5, rue Curial - 75019 Paris, www.104.fr. Tickets: 8€. Half price: €5.50 (young people 14-26 + people earning minimum wage). Free for the under 14s.

PARIS: Sacred Art of Tibet, until July 21st.  For its 19th exhibition, the Fondation Pierre Bergé – Yves Saint Laurent presents the Buddhist masterpieces from Alain Bordier’s collection.  Thanks to Parisselectbook.com for the heads up on this show! For 30 years, Himalyas specialist Alain Border has gathered nearly 400 Buddhist religious objects. Through a selection of 127 pieces, visitors will discover the sacred art and come to understand its Indian and Nepalese origins. The collection will allow you to see rare works that are not often displayed in national museums and that date back to the 6th century.  Admission : 7€/5€. Free for children under 10. Fondation Pierre Bergé - Yves Saint Laurent, #3 rue Léonce Reynaud,75116 Paris. Open every day except Monday from 11am to 6pm, Tel.: +33 1 44 31 64 31, www.fondation-pb-ysl.net.

PARIS: Chagall, Entre Guerre et Paix.  More than 100 works by the Russian artist (who died in Saint-Paul de Vence 1985), focused on the period between 1917 and 1945, as revolution, two world wars, exile, peace and serenity in the south of France influenced but didn’t change his singular, allegorical style. Daily through July 21st, 2013 at the Musée du Luxembourg, 19 rue de Vaugirard, 6th arrond. Métro: Saint Sulpice. Admission: €11, phone 01.40.13.62.00, museeduluxembourg.fr.

PARIS: The Maison Européenne de la Photographie always has something fabulous on view. They're at 5/7 rue de Fourcy. 75004 Paris, Open from Wednesday to Sunday from 11 am to 8 pm, Tel.: +33 1 44 78 75 00, www.mep-fr.org.

PARIS: If you're in Paris hunting art shows, don't forget to check the schedule for the Gallery at Centre Pompidou.  Centre Georges Pompidou - Gallery 1 , Place Georges Pompidou  75004 Paris, Open everyday except Tuesday, from 11 am to 9 pm, Tel: +33 1 44 78 12 33, centrepompidou.fr

PARIS: Annual Cookbook Fair, February 2014. Join major publishers, chefs, journalists, photographers and designers at this important annual meet up. For info, click here. 

PARIS: Salon du Livre Book Fair, March, 2014,  at the Paris Expo Porte de Versailles in the 15th. For info, click here.

      

     PARIS: At the Porte de Versailles, the Foire de Paris (the Paris Fair) has crafts and cuisine from 70 countries, concerts, performances and shows, 2000 exhibitors of home furnishings, garden styles, DIY, health and leisure products and much more. This year's dates: 30 April to 12 May, 2013.  For info: foiredeparis.fr

PERNES LA FONTAINE: 4th Annual Beer Tasting Festival. June 22, 2013, 10 am to 10 pm. Thirty brewers, food, music and more. 04 90 61 37 24, biere-passion.com.

PERTUIS: Open air cinema at Val Joanis Winery. Every Tuesday, July 2 to August 6, 2013. Popcorn and other snacks are available, as is wine, of course. Films happen rain or shine. 12€ /adulte, 7€/enfant. Tel +33(0)4 90 79 20 77,  www.val-joanis.com or email: m.babl@val-joanis.com.

RASTEAU: May 19, 2013 is the Gourmet Escapade, including a 6 km vineyard stroll in view of the beautiful countryside around the Dentelles de Montmirail, the Rhone Valley and Mont Ventoux and the pre-Alps. There are gourmand stops along the way to discover the many local products and the Rasteau wines. Music and an all-day crafts fair round out the fun. For info: 04 90 46 18 73, terresdelumiere.com.

RICHERENCHES: Wine and Vineyard Festival, Maym 2014. Every year, on the Saturday right after Ascension Thursday, the Wine and Vineyard Festival takes place: a wonderful opportunity to discover or rediscover the cellars of Vaucluse.  In Richerenches the local cellar participates in the festivities with different activities, guided tours, wine tastings and more.  But also in keeping with its reputation as a "Site Remarquable du Goût" (outstanding wine/food site), Richerenches will be offering a “truffled” meal at the cellar (reservation only). For info: 04 90 28 01 00 or fetedelavigneetduvin.com

SAULT: Sounds above Sault Festival, May 24 to 26, 2013.  Music of all types, along with improv, street arts, puppetry, cabaret and yes, tractors! For info: 04 90 64 12 26, pharealucioles@no-log.org, pharealucioles.org

SEILLANS: The Institute Gastronomie Riviera has lost of  great events coming up.  The school is located at: La Magnanerie, #12, Ancien Chemin de Fayence, 83440 Seillans. For more info, email Noellechi@cs.com or call: 06 25 87 23 83. 

St Remy: Jazz in St Remy Festival, 12th to 14th September, 2013, in the brand new Alpinium Theatre of St Remy. The schedule includes: Carte Blanche à Louis Winsberg Sept 12.  Mediterrranean Sounds with the Belmondo Family Sextet is Sept 13. Blues night with Jean Jacque Milteau Quintet is Sept 14. Live swing music in the village free in the late afternoons.Concerts around 20€. http://jazzasaintremy.free.fr. 

ST. REMY: Tennis tournament from 2 to 8th Sept 2013. Free entrance. Players are ranked 

150 to 50 worldwide. For info: tropheedesalpilles.fr.

ST. REMY: Painter Elio Lussato is showing his work at the restaurant Cuis'in through June 30, 2013. The restaurant is at #2, ave. de la Liberation. The vernissage is Tuesday April 30 at 7 pm. To stay on for dinner, call: 04 90 15 08 16. For info: artist.elio@orange.fr

ST. REMY: Monday May 20th, 2013  is the annual Fête de la Transhumance in St. Remy, where local shepherds herd their flocks (roughly 3500 sheep and goats) three times around the village's circular "main drag" before taking them up to graze the green pastures of the Alpilles for the summer months. Transhumance is considered one of the 100 Prettiest Festivals in France and if you haven't seen it, it's great good fun. (My friend Philippe calls it ''sheep cooking in the streets.'') It starts officially around 10:30 am but arrive earlier to find parking because the streets are closed off. There's also an all-day flea market on the Place Republique, starting at 9 am. Up at the Plateau de la Crau at noon, there will be sheep-herding demonstrations and food served.  For more info about the Transhumance in St. Remy, call 04 90 92 05 22 or click here. 

ST. REMY: From June 6th through the end of August, 2013 the shops on the rue de la Commune in the heart of the village will be open on Thursdays until 9 pm. Each week a different vineyard domaine will be pouring free rose wine, in front of the restaurant L'aile ou la Cuisse. For more info: 04 90 92 05 22. 
 

ST. REMY: The open-air market in St. Remy, held every Wednesday morning, is one of the largest and most-popular in the region. It runs until 12:30 or 1 p.m....a bit longer if there's a crowd. For info, click here.

VAISON LA ROMAINE: The highly regarded annual modern dance festivall called Vaison Danses is July 13 to 28, 2013. For info: vaison-danses.com/en/. Tickets are at the box office, by phone, online or FNAC: http://www.vaison-danses.com/en/renting-booking-festival-vaison.php

VAUCLUSE REGION: See upcoming events here.

VELLERON: Strawberry Festival, May, 2014. Ciflorette, Gariguette, Pajaro or Mara des bois…every May the strawberry is the queen of the village of Velleron, filling the area with its fragrance. Berries are displayed on stands alongside simple or mixed jams, strawberry macaroons or other cardinal-bright tarts.  The Confrérie de la fraise Carpentras-Comtat Venaissin, wearing ceremonial dress, holds its meetings, while the Fraisier group enlivens the streets with its music.  And there are several tons of this little plump red jewel that Vaucluse berry-growers have on hand for gourmets.  Meanwhile an outdoor antiques fair spreads its handsome wares through the squares and narrow streets of the old village.  Access to the festival and all of the events is free of charge. For info: click here or call 04 90 20 00 71.

 

VILLENEUVE LES AVIGNON: Brocante on the Place du Marche, every Saturday from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. For info: 06-08-94-71-70.