August is THE month for the French to take their summer holidays.
This also means it’s peak time for events across the whole of France.
The coast as well as popular destinations like Paris and Provence will be very busy. But the smaller villages dotted throughout France will be quieter and will all have festivities this summer. There are events covering all aspects of food, the arts and culture over the coming months. I thought I would cover some of the more obscure events that could be entertaining you this August.
The Sea Shanty Festival, Paimpol: 4th August – 6th August 2023
The Sea Shanty Festival is a magnificent celebration of maritime heritage and music. The festival is also a festival for old ships, so expect to see beautiful looking historical ships with nearly a thousand “sea dogs” of all ages, aboard. Every morning, various crews perform the foghorn concert that announces the start of the festivities. Get swept along by the performances of sea shanties, traditional folk songs, and captivating tales of sailors and the sea.
Besides the music, there are activities such as workshops, exhibitions, and seafood delicacies. The Sea Shanty Festival is a unique opportunity to celebrate seafaring history. Enjoy the camaraderie of fellow enthusiasts and experience the allure of the sea in a charming coastal setting.
MiMa Puppet Art Festival, Mirepoix – 24th July – 8th August 2023
The MiMa Puppet Art Festival is an enchanting and magical event that captivates audiences of all ages with the artistry and charm of puppetry. Held annually in the medieval town of Mirepoix, the festival brings together puppeteers from around the world. The quaint streets and historic squares of Mirepoix become a stage for a wide array of puppet performances. Puppeteers range from young creators to established artists who influence contemporary puppet theatre. Spectators are transported into imaginative worlds, as skilful puppeteers breathe life into their intricate characters.
The festival also hosts workshops, exhibitions, and interactive activities. Attendees get the chance to explore the art of puppetry up close. The MiMa – Puppet Art Festival is a celebration of creativity, storytelling, and craftsmanship. If the movie “Magic” affected you and you have a bit of a “puppet phobia”, then this one may not be for you.
World Cultures Festival, Montoire-sur-le-Loir: 8th August – 15th August 2023
This festival is an immersive event that celebrates diversity through dance and music. Nestled in the picturesque Loir Valley, this town comes alive with a kaleidoscope of colours and traditions. The festival attracts over 300 artists from around the world who perform traditional music and dance. There are shows each night as well as exhibitions, conferences, workshops, street activities, crafts and food.
The World Cultures Festival in Montoire-sur-le-Loir fosters cross-cultural understanding and appreciation. The festival promotes unity in diversity and leaves visitors with memories of a global celebration.
St. Louis Festival, Sète: 17th August – 22nd August 2023
Held every year, since 1666, this picturesque town on the Mediterranean coast of France, honours the patron saint, Saint Louis. It is a vibrant and exuberant event and is the highlight of the city’s cultural calendar. The main attraction is the water jousting competition. Jousters, dressed in traditional attire, face off on boats while knocking each other off balance with lances. The atmosphere is electric, with cheers from the enthusiastic crowd adding to the excitement.
The festival also features parades, live music, art exhibitions, and regional cuisine. The event’s fusion of age-old traditions with contemporary entertainment creates an unforgettable experience. Locals and visitors enjoy this festival, celebrating heritage and community.
www.tourisme-sete.com/fetes-de-la-saint-louis-2023.html
Street Theatre Festival, Aurillac: 23rd August – 26th August 2023
The Street Theatre Festival in Aurillac is an exhilarating and dynamic event. Every year for four days, it transforms the picturesque French town into a bustling open-air stage. Renowned as one of Europe’s most prominent street theatre festivals, Aurillac becomes a hub of artistic expression and creativity.
The festival attracts a diverse array of street artists, theatre companies, and performers from around the world. The town comes alive with performances ranging from acrobatics and mime to music, dance, and puppetry. The immersive and interactive nature of the festival also allows visitors to take part. Whether it’s a large-scale spectacle or an intimate street performance, it promises an unforgettable experience for all.
The Voyage à Nantes trail, Nantes: 1st July – 3 September 2023
The Voyage à Nantes trail is an extraordinary and immersive art and poetry trail. The trail takes you on a mesmerizing journey, showcasing the city’s vibrant creativity and rich history. With more than 30 stages, the route winds its way through places such as the abolition of slavery memorial, Chantiers Park, the castle of the Dukes of Brittany and the medieval quarter of Bouffay.
A green line marked on the ground shows the itinerary to visitors. Most sites on the trail are free to enter. If you’re an art enthusiast and a curious explorer, this event will leave you with a deeper understanding of the city’s artistic past.
Wherever you may roam this August, seek out the unusual and the extraordinary. Be bold, be different but of course, be safe!
