17 September 2024 | Tourism
Annual activities on Pézenas
Pézenas is known as "piscenae" in ancient times, was a fairground in the Middle Ages and attracted many aristocratic families who built sumptuous mansions. The historic center of the city, preserved and restored, is a true testimony of this era, with cobbled alleys and facades decorated with masks, of which more than 100 are visible. Pézenas is a lively and pleasant city and has a wide choice of year-round activities celebrating its culture and history:
Cult events
Festivals and Cultural Events
The festival "Molière dans tous ses éclats" is held every year in June. This event pays tribute to the illustrious playwright who stayed in the city and is an integral part of its history. The Mirondela dels Arts is a major summer festival in Pézenas. Created in 1966, it offers an eclectic program including theater, music, humor and dance. This festival aims to promote a popular culture while highlighting local art crafts.
Carnival traditions
The Pézenas Carnival is an important event registered since 2019 in the national inventory of intangible cultural heritage. The day before Mardi Gard, on Monday Gras, a charivari is organized in the city by the association "Fadas du Tamarou". Participants march through the streets to the rhythm of traditional music and stop to perform typical dances.
Markets and fairs
The traditional Saturday market in Pézenas is an important weekly event for residents and visitors. This is an opportunity to discover local specialties, including the famous Pézenas pâtés.
Boby Lapointe Festival
Organised in April, this music festival is dedicated to Boby Lapointe, a famous French singer and poet from Pézenas. The Printival welcomes French-speaking artists from all walks of life for concerts, shows and workshops.
The summers of Pézenas
During the summer, the Pézenas summers take place every Friday evening in July and August. This night market offers stalls of local wines, handicrafts, and local culinary specialties.
European Heritage Days
Every year in September, Pézenas participates in the European Heritage Days. It is a unique opportunity to discover the rich heritage of the city with its mansions, museums and artisan workshops.
Walks and hikes
Pézenas and its surroundings offer many opportunities for walking and hiking. Discover the best popular routes such as the Via Domitia trail or walks in the surrounding vineyard. Discover cultural events directly on the Pézenas tourism site: https://www.pezenas-tourisme.fr/