Festivals in France – Autumn 2009

• By: Editor
• On: 02/Sep/2009
• In: France Travel Tips

Autumn Festival in Normandy 11th Oct – 2nd Dec 2009
The Autumn Festival in Normandy will feature 60 performances in cities such as Dieppe, Rouen and Le Havre as well as other smaller towns in the province. The highlight of the 2009 event will be a celebration of Argentinean culture. Other festival attractions include concerts in the classical music genre, live DJs and theatrical performances. Find out more about Normandy’s Autumn Festival.

Festival de Beaulieu-sur-Mer & Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat 18th – 25th September 2009
The "Legendary Violins" Festival first took place in 2008 and it recounts tales about violins and cellos. For 2009 the festival features the talents of the Stradivarius of Eugène ’Ysaÿe violin. The Vienna Philharmonic solo violin is also celebrated. There will be performances throughout the region.

American Film Festival – Normandy 4th – 13th September 2009
Not only is it a scenic and beautiful seaside resort, every September the Normandy town of Deauville holds a festival that rivals Cannes. The very best American films of the year are previewed here. Now in its 35th year, the festival sees many Hollywood stars descending on Deauville to premiere their latest movies.

Besancon Music Festival 11th – 26th September 2009
Attend various concerts and live performances in the area of the Besancon Festival and be fascinated by the wonderful music! You will hear the music of composers of the Romantic Era who were inspired by Rome, Florence and Venice. The Festival also features the 51st International Competition for Young Orchestral Conductors with the BBC Symphony Orchestra. Find out more about the Besancon Music Festival.

The Ambronay Festival 11th September – 11th October 2009
Check out this wonderful celebration of classical music – this Festical celebrates 30 years in 2009! The festival is a celebration of the great musicians who left their legacy on the history of Ambronay and baroque music. Find out more about the Ambronay Festival.

Festival d'Ile de France 4th September – 11th October 2009
The 2009 Festival d'Ile de France celebrates all things feminine – and is dedicated to all women who have fought for emancipation throughout generations. Musical repertoires will range from the Middle Ages to Baroque, to Classical Romanticism and music from all around the world.  Now in its 31st year, the Festival takes place in 23 historical sites in the Paris area and in total features 33 concerts in total. Find out more about Festival d'Ile de France.

Grande Braderie de Lille
Known as one of the best flea markets on the continent, why not head to the annual Lille Market Festival and grab some bargains! The 2009 Market takes place on Saturday the 5th September. It is a celebration of the market trade that has been in existence in the city since medieval times. Find out more about the Lille Market Festival.

The Bird King Festival
Every September in the Old Town of Le Puy-en-Velay, visitors can take in the Bird King Renaissance Festival (Fêtes Renaissance du Roi de l'Oiseau). Attending this Festival is like thrown back in a time warp to the 16th century – you will see the aristocracy in their fur lined velvet cloaks walking alongside peasants in plain clothes leading donkeys, and there are goods for sale on the streets! You will see musicians playing the tunes of the time through recorders and drums. Why not take part or watch the archery competition which pays tribute to the idea behind the festival, when the Bird King was decided by how many birds he shot with the bow and arrow. Then everyone will attend mass at the local cathedral. The Festival is a reminder of Le Puy-en-Velay’s medieval and Renaissance heritage.  The city lies 325 miles southwest of Paris in the Upper Loire region of south-central France.

Feria du Riz & Course de Satin Horse Race - Bouches-du-Rhone 11th – 13th September 2009
Visitors to this festival will see the cowboys of Camargue known as "Guardians" compete in this event. This annual event dates back to 1529. The "Guardians" are renowned for looking after the bulls and horses of the region. You will be astounded by the bull running, and their guarding by the Camargue horses, and enjoy all the music and festivities that go along with it!

'Tapis Rouge' Red Carpet Antiques Festival – Rhone Valley Lyon 1st October  2009
This annual event takes place on the first Thursday of October. Visitors to Lyon will be astounded by the red carpet that envelops Rue Auguste Compte, which is located in the heart of Lyon’s Antique Quarter. All festival attendees have the opportunity to browse through the jewellery, fabrics, antique furniture and china that is on display in the Quarter.

Whatever French festival you wish to attend, make sure you enjoy it  – take plenty of photographs and the memories will remain forever! If you are travelling around any of the regions, the best way to see the sights and sounds of the local festivals is to travel independently by hiring a car. For the best options available to you visit our Car Hire France page.

Have you been to France and partied at one or some of these festivals? What did you think of them? We value your input so please let us know of any France travel information to share with your fellow readers. As always we welcome your comments!