EVENTS CALENDAR 2024

Below are some of the major (and most fun!) festivals, events and shows currently scheduled in the South of France for 2024, listed month by month. We do everything we can to get it right but it's always best to check before heading out! And new events are being added all the time.

But first....

The Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games will be the biggest event ever organized in France. The Olympics will take place from July 26 to August 11, 2024...and there are Olympic events outside Paris as well. For all the details, go to Paris2024.org or click here.  

The Festival de Nimes in the Arenes de Nimes (the Roman Arena) runs May through July 2024 and kicks off with Eric Clapton on May 31; the Clapton show is of course completely sold. Dua Lipa performs June 12 and 13; James Blunt and Suzanne Vega take the stage July 16. See the full schedule and ticket info here:  festivaldenimes.com

2024 Tour de France will be Sat, Jun 29, 2024 to Sun, Jul 21, 2024. letour.fr/en

Love Lavender? A bunch of our favorite lavender festivals will be back for 2024. Look for lots of locally produced lavender products to sample and buy...and colorful local traditions including music, dance, food, arts and crafts, etc. Here are the main ones:

* One of the first lavender festivals of the season is usually in the town of Ferrassières, on the Plateau D’Albion. This year, it happens on July 7, 2024 and all the info is here: Fête de la Lavande à Ferrassières le dimanche 07 juillet 2024 (fetesdelalavande.fr)

*The town of Valensole hosts possibly the most famous lavender festival in Provence on the third Sunday of July every year, which this year falls on July 21, 2024. In the heart of lavender-growing country, this is definitely the most famous lavender fair in Provence. The festival includes visits to lavender fields and essential oil distilleries, photo exhibits, films, musical and folk dancing show – and of course a market featuring lavender in its every possible form. For info: +33 04 92 74 90 02 or go here: 30ème Fête de la Lavande à Valensole le dimanche 21 juillet 2024 (fetesdelalavande.fr)

* The popular spa town of Digne les Bains in Haute Provence, to the northeast of Valensole, extends the party for a few days with a lively festival called the ‘Corso of Lavender’ happening August 2 to 6,  2024. This year it features music, fireworks, a dance, international marching bands, a musical "tattoo" (competition), processions and a night parade . For all the info, call +33 (0)4 92 36 62 62 or click here: 78ème Corso de la Lavande à Digne les Bains du ven. 2 août au mar. 6 août 2024 (fetesdelalavande.fr)

* The lavender farming village of Sault celebrates its famous crop on August 15, 2024 with a range of activities including a market, processions, competitions featuring traditional lavender-harvesting by hand, horses, regional costumes and more. For all the info: Fête de la Lavande à Sault le jeudi 15 août 2024 (fetesdelalavande.fr)

*And here's a calendar of all the lavender events throughout the summer – it’s in French, but it’ll give you dates, locations and program details:  Les Fêtes de la Lavande (fetesdelalavande.fr)

JANUARY

AVIGNON: Cheval Passion, the annual festival of equestrian arts, is Jan 17 to 21, 2024 at the Avignon Parc Expo. It's the 3rd biggest horse show in all of Europe and attracts riders, breeders and horse-lovers from all over the world. Expect 10,000m² of exhibition space, more than 1000 horses, 250-plus exhibitor stands and lots of competitions including Western, Clinic Xtrem cow-boy, cattle sorting, Iberian horses, horse 'n buggy, trick riding and more. The high point of the show is the Crinières d'Or Gala where new talent and confirmed artists outdo each other with dramatic and creative performances. See the website for all details.

AVIGNON: The 2024 Season of the Opera Grand Avignon will runs from January to June 2024. The program includes opera and operettes, lyrique concerts, danse, musical theater, symphony, chamber music, baroque music and more. operagrandavignon.fr

AVIGNON:  Every month, there's a large one-day Antiques Market for Professionals at the Parc des Expositions, organized by Avignon Antiquities. Thousands of professionals from around the world meet to buy and sell. International freight forwarders are on hand to arrange packing, shipping and customs formalities. Access is only to professionals and info on getting credentials is on the site here. The calendar of markets in 2024 is here.

LES BAUX DE PROVENCE: The Carrières de Lumières (Quarries of Light) is a magical space in a vast cave-like quarry at the base of the hilltop village of Les Baux. There in the cool darkness, 100 video projectors and 30 speakers generate the choreographed movement of 2,000 images over an area of more than 75,000 square feet, onto walls as high as 45 feet and onto the floor. The sound-and-light show changes once a year and is one of the most-popular, most-visited sites in Provence. The 2024/5 program, which launched in late April 2024, explores the Egyptian Pharoahs (main feature) and the art of the Orientalists (a shorter feature focused on Ingres, Delacroix, Gérôme and others). The features play on a continuous loop. For all the info: carrieres-lumieres.com

FEBRUARY 

AVIGNON: The 2024 Season of the Opera Grand Avignon runs January to June, 2024. The program includes opera and operettes, lyrique concerts, danse, musical theater, symphony, chamber music, baroque music and more. operagrandavignon.fr

AVIGNON:  Every month, there's a large one-day Antiques Market for Professionals at the Parc des Expositions, organized by Avignon Antiquities. Thousands of professionals from around the world meet to buy and sell. International freight forwarders are on hand to arrange packing, shipping and customs formalities. Access is only to professionals and info on getting credentials is on the site here. The calendar of markets in 2024 is here.

CARRY-LE-ROUET: The Oursinade sea urchin festival is back in 2024, on the first 3 Sundaysin February (Feb 4, 11 & 18). You'll find a market, exhibits, tastings, entertainment and more. All the info is here: Les Oursinades (otcarrylerouet.fr)  

LES BAUX DE PROVENCE: The Carrières de Lumières (Quarries of Light) is a magical space in a vast cave-like quarry at the base of the hilltop village of Les Baux. There in the cool darkness, 100 video projectors and 30 speakers generate the choreographed movement of 2,000 images over an area of more than 75,000 square feet, onto walls as high as 45 feet and onto the floor. The sound-and-light show changes once a year and is one of the most-popular, most-visited sites in Provence. The 2024/5 program, which launched in late April, explores the Egyptian Pharoahs (main feature) and the art of the Orientalists (a shorter feature focused on Ingres, Delacroix, Gérôme and others). The features play on a continuous loop. For all the info: carrieres-lumieres.com

MENTON: The 89th Annual Menton Fête du Citron (Lemon Festival) happens Feb 17 to March 3, 2024. Info here.  

NICE: Carnaval de Nice, Feb 17 to March 3, 2024. Info is here or at: nicecarnaval.com.

 

NIMES: Annual Flamenco Festival at the Theatre de Nimes. 2025 Dates TBA. Theatredenimes.com.

MARCH

AVIGNON: The new season of the Opera Grand Avignon runs January to June, 2024. The program includes opera and operettes, lyrique concerts, danse, musical theater, symphony, chamber music, baroque music and more. operagrandavignon.fr

AVIGNON:  Every month, there's a large one-day Antiques Market for Professionals at the Parc des Expositions, organized by Avignon Antiquities. Thousands of professionals from around the world meet to buy and sell. International freight forwarders are on hand to arrange packing, shipping and customs formalities. Access is only to professionals and info on getting credentials is on the site here. The calendar of markets in 2024 is here.

COTE D'AZUR: The Côte d’Azur Garden Festival usually runs March through May. The 2025 dates are TBA. Visit a wide range of gardens, from botanical beauties to hidden hotel gardens, from public parks to historic stately homes. For all the info, click here. 

LES BAUX DE PROVENCE: The Carrières de Lumières (Quarries of Light) is a magical space in a vast cave-like quarry at the base of the hilltop village of Les Baux. There in the cool darkness, 100 video projectors and 30 speakers generate the choreographed movement of 2,000 images over an area of more than 75,000 square feet, onto walls as high as 45 feet and onto the floor. The sound-and-light show changes once a year and is one of the most-popular, most-visited sites in Provence. The 2024/5 program, which launched in late April, explores the Egyptian Pharoahs (main feature) and the art of the Orientalists (a shorter feature focused on Ingres, Delacroix, Gérôme and others). The features play on a continuous loop. For all the info: carrieres-lumieres.com

APRIL

AVIGNON: The 2024 Season of the Opera Grand Avignon runs January to June, 2024. The program includes opera and operettes, lyrique concerts, danse, musical theater, symphony, chamber music, baroque music and more. operagrandavignon.fr

AVIGNON:  Every month, there's a large one-day Antiques Market for Professionals at the Parc des Expositions, organized by Avignon Antiquities. Thousands of professionals from around the world meet to buy and sell. International freight forwarders are on hand to arrange packing, shipping and customs formalities. Access is only to professionals and info on getting credentials is on the site here. The calendar of markets in 2024 is here.

LES BAUX DE PROVENCE: The Carrières de Lumières (Quarries of Light) is a magical space in a vast cave-like quarry at the base of the hilltop village of Les Baux. There in the cool darkness, 100 video projectors and 30 speakers generate the choreographed movement of 2,000 images over an area of more than 75,000 square feet, onto walls as high as 45 feet and onto the floor. The sound-and-light show changes once a year and is one of the most-popular, most-visited sites in Provence. The 2024 program, which launched in late April, explores the Egyptian Pharoahs (main feature) and the art of the Orientalists (a shorter feature focused on Ingres, Delacroix, Gérôme and others). The features play on a continuous loop. For all the info: carrieres-lumieres.com

MAY

AIX:  La Nuit des Galeries: Gallery Night in Aix. Sat May 18, 2024.  For info: lanuitdesgaleries.fr

AIX: Salon Vivre Cote Sud, May 31 to June 3, 2024. Created in 1996 and held in St. Tropez until 2011, this popular design fair has been held at the Parc Jourdan in Aix since 2005. The organizers say it was designed "to bring to life the magazine Maisons Côté Sud." Stroll under the lime trees and discover furniture, home and garden decor, crafts, food and much more...from Provence, Spain, Italy and beyond. This year 27,000 visitors and 250 exhibitors are expected. https://www.salonscotemaison.fr/vivre-cote-sud-aix-en-provence/en/accueil-2/

AVIGNON: The 2024 Season of the Opera Grand Avignon runs January to June, 2024. The program includes opera and operettes, lyrique concerts, danse, musical theater, symphony, chamber music, baroque music and more. operagrandavignon.fr

AVIGNON:  Every month, there's a large one-day Antiques Market for Professionals at the Parc des Expositions, organized by Avignon Antiquities. Thousands of professionals from around the world meet to buy and sell. International freight forwarders are on hand to arrange packing, shipping and customs formalities. Access is only to professionals and info on getting credentials is on the site here. The calendar of markets in 2024 is here.

CANNES: French Riviera Film Festival, May 17 and 18, 2024. The annual festival celebrates short film and short-form content from around the globe and features the works of filmmakers from more than 20 countries in the categories of drama, comedy, documentary, sci-fi/horror, animation, experimental, music video, lifestyle/fashion, microshort and experimental.  https://frenchrivierafilmfestival.com/

COTE D'AZUR: The next Côte d’Azur Garden Festival will be in May 2025. Visit a wide range of gardens, from botanical beauties to hidden hotel gardens, from public parks to historic stately homes. For all the info, click here. 

LES BAUX DE PROVENCE: The Carrières de Lumières (Quarries of Light) is a magical space in a vast cave-like quarry at the base of the hilltop village of Les Baux. There in the cool darkness, 100 video projectors and 30 speakers generate the choreographed movement of 2,000 images over an area of more than 75,000 square feet, onto walls as high as 45 feet and onto the floor. The sound-and-light show changes once a year and is one of the most-popular, most-visited sites in Provence. The 2024 program, which launched in late April, explores the Egyptian Pharoahs (main feature) and the art of the Orientalists (a shorter feature focused on Ingres, Delacroix, Gérôme and others). The features play on a continuous loop. For all the info: carrieres-lumieres.com

MONACO: The Grand Prix of Monaco Formula 1 will be May 23 to 26, 2024, with an exciting program of sports, entertainment and festivities. For all the info, click here. 

NIMES: The Festival de Nimes in the Arenes de Nimes (the Roman Arena) runs May through July 2024 and kicks off with Eric Clapton on May 31; Dua Lipa performs June 12 and 13. See the full schedule and tick info here:  festivaldenimes.com

SAINT-REMY: The 40th Annual Transhumance will be Monday May 20, 2024. Yep, that's the one with all the sheep taking three laps around town on the way from their winter grazing spot to their summer home in the mountains. Arrive early and expect the sheep--roughly 3000 of them--to roll in around 11 am. Plus there's usually a Shepherds' Lunch (you must purchase tickets in advance) and an all-day brocante on the Place Republique. alpillesenprovence.com

ST. REMY: Jazz a Saint Remy Festival, with events in May through September 2024. Concerts, a photo expo and more. jazzasaintremy.fr.

TARASCON: The 41st Annual Marché aux Fleurs (flower market & festival) happens May 18 & 19, 2024. For info, click here. Marché aux Fleurs | Ville de Tarascon-en-Provence

JUNE

ALL OVER FRANCE: Fête de la Musique is June 21, 2024. Day and night, free music will take over streets, cafes, music venues, historic sites, gardens, parks and churches all over France. For info: Welcome (culture.gouv.fr)  

AVIGNON: The 2024 Season of the Opera Grand Avignon runs January to June 2024. The program includes opera and operettes, lyrique concerts, danse, musical theater, symphony, chamber music, baroque music and more. operagrandavignon.fr

AVIGNON:  The 78th edition of the Festival d'Avignon will be June 29 to July 21, 2024. This is a huge theater, music and dance festival that takes over the whole city. Expect roughly 45 shows from France and abroad, for a total of about 300 performances with over 400 events including panels, readings, meetings, debates, and screenings across 20 locations around town. Tickets can be purchased by phone, on the website, or at the ticket office at the Cloitre Saint-Louis (on rue Portail Boquier). At some point, a day-by-day "Spectators’ Guide" (with info on readings, films, exhibits, live radio broadcasts and other events) is available online and at all venues. You can also get info on all Festival d’Avignon and the alternative Off Festival (July 3-21, 2024) events and activities at the Avignon Tourist OfficeAvignon Tourist Office (41, cours Jean Jaurès). For info on main festival: festival-avignon.com, 04 90 27 66 50, festival@festival-avignon.com. For info on the Off Festival, click here.

AVIGNON:  Every month, there's a large one-day Antiques Market for Professionals at the Parc des Expositions, organized by Avignon Antiquities. Thousands of professionals from around the world meet to buy and sell. International freight forwarders are on hand to arrange packing, shipping and customs formalities. Access is only to professionals and info on getting credentials is on the site here. The calendar of markets in 2024 is here.

LACOSTE:: The Savannah College of Art and Design is again bringing a generous helping of Southern hospitality to the Luberon for the SCAD Lacoste Film Festival, which runs June 27 to 29, 2024. Now in its third year, the fest was conceived as a top-up highlight for college students doing their semester abroad at SCAD’s campus in Lacoste, the picturesque medieval village.  After snagging Jeremy Irons for its inaugural edition and Leslie Manville last year, SCAD Lacoste 2024 has about triple the programming and a VIP guest list that includes BAFTA-nominated director Sam Taylor-Johnson (Fifty Shades of Grey, Back to Black), Golden Globe-winning actress Miranda Richardson (Damage, The Crying Game), Oscar-nominated French director Jean-Pierre Jeunet (Amélie, Delicatessen) and Oscar-winning costume designer Janty Yates (Gladiator, Napoleon). All the details are here.

LES BAUX DE PROVENCE: The Carrières de Lumières (Quarries of Light) is a magical space in a vast cave-like quarry at the base of the hilltop village of Les Baux. There in the cool darkness, 100 video projectors and 30 speakers generate the choreographed movement of 2,000 images over an area of more than 75,000 square feet, onto walls as high as 45 feet and onto the floor. The sound-and-light show changes once a year and is one of the most-popular, most-visited sites in Provence. The 2024 program, which launched in late April, explores the Egyptian Pharoahs (main feature) and the art of the Orientalists (a shorter feature focused on Ingres, Delacroix, Gérôme and others). The features play on a continuous loop. For all the info: carrieres-lumieres.com

LES BAUX DE PROVENCE: June 28-30, 2024. In a beautiful outdoor setting, enjoy a weekend of piano music from top talents.https://www.lesbauxpianos.com/

NIMES: The Festival de Nimes in the Arenes de Nimes (the Roman Arena) runs May through July 2024 and kicks off with Eric Clapton on May 31; Dua Lipa performs June 12 and 13. See the full schedule and tick info here:  festivaldenimes.com

ST. REMY:  Creators Market, Tuesday evenings, 7 pm to roughly midnight. This popular market is held all around the Big Church (Collegiale St. Martin) and in front of the Town Hall. Art, ceramics, jewelry, tableware, clothing and more...all locally made. For info, click here.

ST. REMY: Jazz a Saint Remy Festival, with events in May through September 2024. Concerts, a photo expo and more. jazzasaintremy.fr.

JULY

ALL OVER FRANCE: July 14, Bastille Day. Also called the Fête Nationale. This public holiday commemorates the day that Parisian commoners and peasants stormed the fortress and prison of Bastille, provoking events that would end the monarchy and usher in the age of liberty, fraternity and equality. This year, events will likely be scaled back so check your local listings. In Paris, there's usually a traditional military parade along the Champs Elysées and a festival atmosphere throughout the day, finishing with the city night-sky turned bright by magnificent and noisy fireworks shows. In smaller cities and villages throughout France, you'll find parades, street fairs, live music, fireworks, bals (dances) and much more. Check local listings for specifics.

AIX: The Festival d'Aix (Opera) will be in July 2024. This is one of the most popular classical music festivals in Europe and also one of the longest running...since 1948! This Festival won the 2023 International Opera Award for Best Opera Festival. Exact dates TBA.

ARLES:  The dates for the 2024 Rencontres d'Arles, the large international photo expo, are July 1 to September 22, 2024. The main events (openings, conferences, special evening parties, talks and tours) almost all happen during opening week. Certain exhibits remain on view until the very end; others come down sooner. For info in English, click here: Les Rencontres d'Arles (rencontres-arles.com)

ARLES: The 29th edition of the  "Les Suds à Arles" World Music Festival will happen July 8 to 14, 2024. It's a week filled with concerts, master classes, "meet the musician" events and more, in the heart of the historic city. For info:  Les Suds, à Arles (suds-arles.com)

AVIGNON:  The 78th edition of the Festival d'Avignon will be June 29 to July 21, 2024. This is a huge theater, music and dance festival that takes over the whole city. Expect roughly 45 shows from France and abroad, for a total of about 300 performances with over 400 events including panels, readings, meetings, debates, and screenings across 20 locations around town. Tickets can be purchased by phone, on the website, or at the ticket office at the Cloitre Saint-Louis (on rue Portail Boquier). At some point, a day-by-day "Spectators’ Guide" (with info on readings, films, exhibits, live radio broadcasts and other events) is available online and at all venues. You can also get info on all Festival d’Avignon and the alternative Off Festival (July 3-21, 2024) events and activities at the Avignon Tourist OfficeAvignon Tourist Office (41, cours Jean Jaurès). For info on main festival: festival-avignon.com, 04 90 27 66 50, festival@festival-avignon.com. For info on the Off Festival, click here.

AVIGNON: Celebrating its 32nd anniversary this year, the  annual Avignon Jazz Festival,  held in the picturesque Cloitre des Carmes cloister, continues to promote young jazz musicians in a mix of musical genres through a program blending  informal events, high-profile concerts and what many feel is Europe’s premier jazz competition. July 27 to Aug 3, 2024 tremplinjazzavignon.fr 

AVIGNON:  Every month, there's a large one-day Antiques Market for Professionals at the Parc des Expositions, organized by Avignon Antiquities. Thousands of professionals from around the world meet to buy and sell. International freight forwarders are on hand to arrange packing, shipping and customs formalities. Access is only to professionals and info on getting credentials is on the site here. The calendar of markets in 2024 is here.

EYGALIERES: July, 2024. Calan d’Art Festival Artistique à Eygalieres includes art, music, comedy, a delicious Afghan-cuisine buffet and more. calandart.com. 

FERRASSIERES:  One of the first lavender festivals of the season is usually in the town of Ferrassières, on the Plateau D’Albion. This year, it happens on July 7, 2024 and all the info is here: Fête de la Lavande à Ferrassières le dimanche 07 juillet 2024 (fetesdelalavande.fr)

JUAN-LES-PINS: Jazz a Juan, July 8 to 18, 2024.Launched as the Antibes Jazz Festival in 1960, this is now the oldest jazz festival in Europe, celebrating both the stars of the moment and the stars of tomorrow. Over the years, the festival has welcomed Charlie Mingus, Ray Charles, Miles Davis, Ella Fitzgerald, John Coltrane, Dizzy Gillespie, Stan Getz, BB King and so many more. jazzajuan.com

LACOSTE: July 11 to 24, 2024. Festival de La Coste. Created by Pierre Cardin 21 years ago in the unforgettable setting of the Carrières of the Château du Marquis de Sade, this much-loved festival is dedicated to theater, dance and opera, while promoting the discovery of young singers at the dawn of their careers. festivaldelacoste.com.

LA ROQUE D’ANTHERON: July 20 to Aug 20, 2024. The 44th Annual International Piano Festival is considered by many to be the most important piano festival in the world. Normally the concerts are in multiple outdoor and indoor venues but this year, everything will be held at Le Parc du Château de Florans. Festival International de Piano de la Roque d’Anthéron - Homepage - Welcome (festival-piano.com)

LA ROQUE D'ANTHERON: Summer Soirees at Silvacane, July 5 to 7, 2024. A music and dance festival in the unique setting of the Abbey of La Roque d'Anthéron. soirsdete.com

LES BAUX DE PROVENCE: The Carrières de Lumières (Quarries of Light) is a magical space in a vast cave-like quarry at the base of the hilltop village of Les Baux. There in the cool darkness, 100 video projectors and 30 speakers generate the choreographed movement of 2,000 images over an area of more than 75,000 square feet, onto walls as high as 45 feet and onto the floor. The sound-and-light show changes once a year and is one of the most-popular, most-visited sites in Provence. The 2024 program, which launched in late April, explores the Egyptian Pharoahs (main feature) and the art of the Orientalists (a shorter feature focused on Ingres, Delacroix, Gérôme and others). The features play on a continuous loop. For all the info: carrieres-lumieres.com

NIMES: The Festival de Nimes in the Arenes de Nimes (the Roman Arena) runs May through July 2024 and kicks off with Eric Clapton on May 31; Dua Lipa performs June 12 and 13. See the full schedule and tick info here:  festivaldenimes.com

ST. REMY: July 18 to 22, 2024. This year, the annual Glanum Festival presents five stellar ballet and musical performances, amidst the beauty of this excavated Greco/Roman site in the foothills of the Alpilles, just south of the village. festivaldeglanum.com

ST. REMY:  Creators Market, Tuesday evenings in summer, 2024 dates to be announced. This popular market is held all around the Big Church (Collegiale St. Martin) and in front of the Town Hall, from about 7 pm to Midnight.  Arts and crafts, jewelry, tableware, clothing and more...all locally made. For info, click here.

VALENSOLE: The town of Valensole hosts possibly the most famous lavender festival in Provence on the third Sunday of July every year, which this year falls on July 21, 2024. In the heart of lavender-growing country, this is definitely the most famous lavender fair in Provence. The festival includes visits to lavender fields and essential oil distilleries, photo exhibits, films, musical and folk dancing show – and of course a market featuring lavender in its every possible form. For info: +33 04 92 74 90 02 or go here: 30ème Fête de la Lavande à Valensole le dimanche 21 juillet 2024 (fetesdelalavande.fr)

AUGUST 

ARLES:  The dates for the 2024 Rencontres d'Arles, the large international photo expo, are July 1 to September 22, 2024. The main events (openings, conferences, special evening parties, talks and tours) almost all happen during opening week. Certain exhibits remain on view until the very end; others come down sooner. For info in English, click here: Les Rencontres d'Arles (rencontres-arles.com)

AVIGNON:  Every month, there's a large one-day Antiques Market for Professionals at the Parc des Expositions, organized by Avignon Antiquities. Thousands of professionals from around the world meet to buy and sell. International freight forwarders are on hand to arrange packing, shipping and customs formalities. Access is only to professionals and info on getting credentials is on the site here. The calendar of markets in 2023 is here.

DIGNE LES BAINS: This popular spa town of Digne les Bains in Haute Provence, to the northeast of Valensole, celebrates the lavender love with a lively festival called the ‘Corso of Lavender’ August 2 to 6,  2024. This year it features music, fireworks, a dance, international marching bands, a musical "tattoo" (competition), processions and a night parade . For all the info, call +33 (0)4 92 36 62 62 or click here: 78ème Corso de la Lavande à Digne les Bains du ven. 2 août au mar. 6 août 2024 (fetesdelalavande.fr)

LA ROQUE D’ANTHERON: July 20 to Aug 20, 2024. The 44th Annual International Piano Festival is considered by many to be the most important piano festival in the world. Normally the concerts are in multiple outdoor and indoor venues but this year, everything will be held at Le Parc du Château de Florans. Festival International de Piano de la Roque d’Anthéron - Homepage - Welcome (festival-piano.com)

L’ISLE-SUR-LA-SORGUE: The famous Floating Market happens every year on the morning of the first Sunday of August (9AM – 1PM). Flat-bottomed boats known as "Nego-Chin" are decorated with flowers and filled with local products; they float down the river and dock along the river banks, with locals in colorful costumes on board. For info: Le marché flottant de l'été à L'Isle sur la Sorgue (islesurlasorguetourisme.com).

LES BAUX DE PROVENCE: The Carrières de Lumières (Quarries of Light) is a magical space in a vast cave-like quarry at the base of the hilltop village of Les Baux. There in the cool darkness, 100 video projectors and 30 speakers generate the choreographed movement of 2,000 images over an area of more than 75,000 square feet, onto walls as high as 45 feet and onto the floor. The sound-and-light show changes once a year and is one of the most-popular, most-visited sites in Provence. The 2024 program, which launched in late April, explores the Egyptian Pharoahs (main feature) and the art of the Orientalists (a shorter feature focused on Ingres, Delacroix, Gérôme and others). The features play on a continuous loop. For all the info: carrieres-lumieres.com

LOURMARIN:  Every year, classical concerts held in the Salle de Reception of the Chateau de Lourmarin. This is a lovely opportunity to visit a village classified as one of the "Most Beautiful Villages of France.” 2024 dates are TBA.  +33 (04) 90 68 15 23, chateau-de-lourmarin.com. 

NICE: The Nice Jazz Fest will be August 20 to 23, 2024 in the Albert 1st Gardens. Details & bookings: http://nicejazzfest.fr/en/

RASTEAU: La Fête dans les Etoiles, 2024 dates TBA.  A stroll, a gourmet picnic, live music and lots of wine! Stroll through the picturesque village of Rasteau on a long summer evening, sipping a glass of wine of course (20 winemakers participating), enjoy an outdoor photo exhibit and ending up with a picnic prepared by 8 top local chefs and artisans. The evening is limited to 500 people. Price : 50€/adults, 20€/kids under 12. Online registration only, with departures every 10 minutes and everything in compliance with all health protocols! For all the info and to book: https://lafetedanslesetoiles.com/en/accueil-en/

SAULT:  The lavender farming village of Sault celebrates its famous crop on August 15, 2024 with a range of activities including a market, processions, competitions featuring traditional lavender-harvesting by hand, horses, regional costumes and more. For all the info: Fête de la Lavande à Sault le jeudi 15 août 2024 (fetesdelalavande.fr)

ST. REMY:  The Creators Market is held Tuesday evenings, late June to mid September. This popular market is held all around the Big Church (Collegiale St. Martin) and in front of the Town Hall, from about 7 pm to Midnight.  Arts and crafts, jewelry, tableware, clothing and more...all locally made. For info, click here.

ST. REMY: Jazz a Saint Remy Festival: live music events in July through September, 2024.  jazzasaintremy.fr.

VALLEBREGUES: The 32nd Annual Festival of European Basketry, August 9 and 10, 2024. Forty exhibitors, music, food trucks, evening concerts and more. For info, click here or call: +33 04 66 59 26 57

SEPTEMBER

AIX: This year, the gorgeous art museum called the Hôtel de Caumont-Centre d’Art will devote its summer exhibition to Bonnard et Le Japon. From April 30, 2024. caumont-centredart.com

ALL OVER FRANCE: The French Heritage Days (Journées du Patrimoine) happens one weekend every September; the 2023 dates are Sept 16 and 17. That's when you get free access to historic sites and museums and other wonderful places that are normally closed to the public throw open their doors. See the website here for this year's details.

ARLES:  The dates for the 2024 Rencontres d'Arles, the large international photo expo, are July 1 to September 22, 2024. The main events (openings, conferences, special evening parties, talks and tours) almost all happen during opening week. Certain exhibits remain on view until the very end; others come down sooner. For info in English: rencontres-arles.com

AVIGNON:  Every month, there's a large one-day Antiques Market for Professionals at the Parc des Expositions, organized by Avignon Antiquities. Thousands of professionals from around the world meet to buy and sell. International freight forwarders are on hand to arrange packing, shipping and customs formalities. Access is only to professionals and info on getting credentials is on the site here. The calendar of markets in 2023 is here.

LES BAUX DE PROVENCE: The Carrières de Lumières (Quarries of Light) is a magical space in a vast cave-like quarry at the base of the hilltop village of Les Baux. There in the cool darkness, 100 video projectors and 30 speakers generate the choreographed movement of 2,000 images over an area of more than 75,000 square feet, onto walls as high as 45 feet and onto the floor. The sound-and-light show changes once a year and is one of the most-popular, most-visited sites in Provence. The 2024 program, which launched in late April, explores the Egyptian Pharoahs (main feature) and the art of the Orientalists (a shorter feature focused on Ingres, Delacroix, Gérôme and others). The features play on a continuous loop. For all the info: carrieres-lumieres.com

ST. REMY: Jazz a Saint Remy Festival: live music events in July through September, 2024.  jazzasaintremy.fr.

ST. REMY:  Creators Market on Tuesday Evenings. This popular market is held all around the Big Church (Collegiale St. Martin) and in front of the Town Hall, from about 7 pm to Midnight.  Arts and crafts, jewelry, tableware, clothing and more...all locally made. For info, click here.

ST. TROPEZ: Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez is one of the world's premiere sailing events. Next dates are Sept 28 to Oct 6, 2024. lesvoilesdesaint-tropez.fr

OCTOBER

AIX: This year, the gorgeous art museum called the Hôtel de Caumont-Centre d’Art will devote its summer exhibition to Bonnard et Le Japon. From April 30, 2024. caumont-centredart.com

AVIGNON:  Every month, there's a large one-day Antiques Market for Professionals at the Parc des Expositions, organized by Avignon Antiquities. Thousands of professionals from around the world meet to buy and sell. International freight forwarders are on hand to arrange packing, shipping and customs formalities. Access is only to professionals and info on getting credentials is on the site here. The calendar of markets in 2023 is here. 

LES BAUX DE PROVENCE: The Carrières de Lumières (Quarries of Light) is a magical space in a vast cave-like quarry at the base of the hilltop village of Les Baux. There in the cool darkness, 100 video projectors and 30 speakers generate the choreographed movement of 2,000 images over an area of more than 75,000 square feet, onto walls as high as 45 feet and onto the floor. The sound-and-light show changes once a year and is one of the most-popular, most-visited sites in Provence. The 2024 program, which launched in late April, explores the Egyptian Pharoahs (main feature) and the art of the Orientalists (a shorter feature focused on Ingres, Delacroix, Gérôme and others). The features play on a continuous loop. For all the info: carrieres-lumieres.com

NOVEMBER

ANTIBES/JUAN LES PINS: Sixth annual Jammin' Juan festival, November 6 to 8, 202. An event launched by the Antibes Juan-les-Pins Tourism & Convention Bureau, organizer of the "Jazz in Juan" festival. This relatively new event welcomes festival organisers, artistic directors, venue managers, journalists and musicians, with the aim of encouraging meetings and exchange between jazz professionals. Two stages of "showcases" and concerts are open to the public. Click here for homepage in English.  

AVIGNON:  Every month, there's a large one-day Antiques Market for Professionals at the Parc des Expositions, organized by Avignon Antiquities. Thousands of professionals from around the world meet to buy and sell. International freight forwarders are on hand to arrange packing, shipping and customs formalities. Access is only to professionals and info on getting credentials is on the site here. The calendar of markets in 2024 is here.

AVIGNON: Millevin! November 21, 2024. Celebrating the wines of the Côtes du Rhône and the new vintage, this popular festival is a great opportunity to catch up with the Côtes du Rhône wine community (winegrowers, cellarkeepers, wine merchants, etc.) under the Bar à Vins marquee on the Place des Corps Saints. There’s a full program of tastings, concerts, entertainment and a parade of traditional Guilds. A colorful procession of Guilds departs from the town center at 6 pm and the festivities continue throughout the evening on Place des Corps Saints and Place Saint Didier. In participating local restaurants you can enjoy special “Côtes du Rhône” dinner menus and a free glass of Côtes du Rhône wine per person. cotesdurhone.com

ARLES: This large indoor holiday market happens at the Palais des Congres in Arles every November; the next one is November 21, 2024.  Decor, decorating, home goods, tableware, kids things, food and more. provenceprestige.com

LES BAUX DE PROVENCE: The Carrières de Lumières (Quarries of Light) is a magical space in a vast cave-like quarry at the base of the hilltop village of Les Baux. There in the cool darkness, 100 video projectors and 30 speakers generate the choreographed movement of 2,000 images over an area of more than 75,000 square feet, onto walls as high as 45 feet and onto the floor. The sound-and-light show changes once a year and is one of the most-popular, most-visited sites in Provence. The 2024 program, which launched in late April, explores the Egyptian Pharoahs (main feature) and the art of the Orientalists (a shorter feature focused on Ingres, Delacroix, Gérôme and others). The features play on a continuous loop. For all the info: carrieres-lumieres.com

DECEMBER

ALL OVER THE BOUCHES DU RHONE: The annual Chants de Noel presents 60 or so free Christmas concerts across the region, throughout the month of December, including a number of major concerts in emblematic venues. Programs include gospel, jazz, flamenco and more.

AIX: The city stages a large, very atmospheric Christmas market every year on the Cours Mirabeau. The 2024 dates haven't been announced but they're usually from the third week in November to the end of the year. Aix Tourist Office.

AVIGNON:  Every month, there's a large one-day Antiques Market for Professionals at the Parc des Expositions, organized by Avignon Antiquities. Thousands of professionals from around the world meet to buy and sell. International freight forwarders are on hand to arrange packing, shipping and customs formalities. Access is only to professionals and info on getting credentials is on the site here. The calendar of markets in 2023 is here.

LES BAUX DE PROVENCE: The Carrières de Lumières (Quarries of Light) is a magical space in a vast cave-like quarry at the base of the hilltop village of Les Baux. There in the cool darkness, 100 video projectors and 30 speakers generate the choreographed movement of 2,000 images over an area of more than 75,000 square feet, onto walls as high as 45 feet and onto the floor. The sound-and-light show changes once a year and is one of the most-popular, most-visited sites in Provence. The 2024 program, which launched in late April, explores the Egyptian Pharoahs (main feature) and the art of the Orientalists (a shorter feature focused on Ingres, Delacroix, Gérôme and others). The features play on a continuous loop. For all the info: carrieres-lumieres.com

LES BAUX: Throughout December and early January, Les Baux hosts "animations, ateliers, traditions, expositions and observations."  Either just go up and see what's happening or check in with the les Baux Tourist Office for details. lesbauxdeprovence.com.

LYON: The city will be beautifully ablaze with sound and light installations again, during the annual Fete de Lumières. It's not Provence of course but if you haven't seen it, it's a must. Specific dates to be announced, in December. All the info is here.

NICE: Christmas in Nice, Christmas Market and Village. Dates to be announced but it usually runs from Dec 1 to Jan 1. Info is here. 

ST. REMY: The 2024 Fete des Lumieres is Saturday December 9, starting at 7 pm. Stroll around the village, lit beautifully for the holidays, and enjoy drinks and holiday treats offered by local shops. There's often live music on the street as well. For info: https://www.alpillesenprovence.com/en/