Live like a local ! French traditions and festivals not to miss

France is a country rich in culture and traditions, and each region celebrates unique festivals that reflect its history, customs and local specialties. Whether you are passing through or living in France, participating in these events will allow you to discover the soul of the country while sharing friendly moments with the locals. Here is a selection of French festivals and traditions not to be missed.

Discovering the Nice Carnival (Côte d’Azur)

The Nice Carnival is one of the most famous carnivals in the world, it attracts thousands of visitors to the Côte d'Azur every year. This carnival is distinguished by its impressive flower floats, extravagant costumes, as well as the famous flower battles. Attending this festival is a unique experience, ideal for discovering the festive atmosphere of the South of France in the middle of winter.

The Feast of Saint John (June 24)

Midsummer marks the summer solstice, an ancient festival celebrated with bonfires in many villages and towns across France. This moment of sharing symbolizes light and friendship, and locals often gather around fires to dance and sing until late at night. In Provence, for example, this festival is particularly lively and attracts many tourists.

Bayonne Festivals (July)

In July, Bayonne, in the Basque Country, becomes the scene of one of the biggest festivals in France, inspired by the famous festivals of Pamplona in Spain. For five days, residents and visitors dressed in white and red take to the streets to celebrate with dances, traditional Basque music, bullfights, and parades. It’s a total immersion in Basque culture.

The Harvest Festival in Montmartre (Paris, October)

Every year, in October, the Montmartre district of Paris celebrates the harvest of its small vineyard. This festival, which dates back several centuries, allows you to discover French wine traditions in the heart of the capital. The streets fill with wine tasting stands, shows and parades. A unique opportunity to experience French culture around wine and gastronomy.

The Festival of Lights (Lyon, December)

Every year, at the beginning of December, Lyon lights up for the Festival of Lights, a tradition that dates back to the 19th century to thank the Virgin Mary for her protection. The city is transformed into an extraordinary visual spectacle thanks to light installations and artistic projections. It is one of the most magical festivals in France, attracting artists and visitors from all over the world.

The Truffle Festival (Sarlat, January)

The truffle, this famous black mushroom so popular, is entitled to its own festival in Sarlat, in Dordogne, every January. This gastronomic event is a true celebration of the terroir. Visitors can participate in cooking workshops, attend “cavage” demonstrations (searching for truffles), and taste local specialties based on truffles. Ideal for lovers of cuisine and authentic products.

The Avignon Festival (July)

In the middle of summer, the city of Avignon becomes the capital of theatre and performing arts. The Avignon Festival, which offers hundreds of performances in theaters and on the streets, is one of the most important cultural events in France. Artists, amateurs and curious people meet there to enjoy innovative and often engaging shows.

The Chestnut Festival (Ardèche, October)

In autumn, Ardèche celebrates the chestnut, a flagship product of its region. This gastronomic festival allows you to taste chestnut-based products and discover local traditions around this fruit. Concerts, markets and cooking workshops enhance this festival which attracts both families and local enthusiasts.

The Music Festival (everywhere in France, June 21)

The Fête de la Musique is a national event where amateur and professional musicians perform in the streets, bars, and public squares. From small villages to large cities like Paris, this festival brings together all generations around free concerts of all musical genres.