2018 autumn events in France
France isn’t just a summer destination; there are loads of amazing activities taking place in autumn. From live jazz on the southern coast to early Christmas festivities in Alsace, there’s plenty to enjoy on a long break or weekend away.
Here’s a selection of our favourite French events in autumn. Take a look at our French properties for autumn too.
Fête du Cidre, Beuvron-en-Auge, Normandy – October 21
It’s worth taking a trip over the Channel for Normandy cider, but if you need a better excuse then this festival, offering live music and market stalls to accompany your enjoyment, is most definitely it.
The autumn climate in Normandy is mild, and the reception from the locals is equally welcoming. You can even buy a few bottles of cider to bring home. There are few nicer holiday mementos!
Salon du Chocolat, Paris – October 31 to November 4
For a sweet autumn escape head to Paris from the end of October for one of the world’s largest celebrations of chocolate.
Over 500 participants, including 200 renowned chefs, from 60 different countries will be competing and exhibiting their divine wares. There will be live performances, demos, workshops and plenty to eat. Make sure you bring your sweet tooth!
All Saints Day, France – November 1
A French national holiday, businesses close and locals enjoy a short break on All Saints Day. For this reason, it’s perfect for exploring the quiet streets and parks and enjoying a relaxed, and relaxing, pace of life.
Also known as La Toussaint, this year’s event takes place on a Thursday, so it’s perfect for the first day of a long weekend away.
International Garden Festival, Chaumont-sur-Loire – Until November 4
The fruits of this gorgeous gardening competition are best enjoyed in autumn. Every year the gardens of the Chaumont-sur-Loire estate are transformed by landscape architects, gardeners, and many other creative types, into living exhibits.
Explore the amazing exhibits surrounding this stunning fairy-tale castle in the glorious autumn light. You can also explore the castle and the glorious green surrounds too!
Jazz sur la Ville, Marseille – November 5 – December 2
Soothing sounds in a scenic setting, there’s no better way to recapture the feeling of summer than visiting the Jazz sur La Ville Festival.
Taking place from Marseille to Provence, the Alps and the Côte d’Azur, there’s much to enjoy in France’s stunning south east with performers from all over the world.
Rassemblement International de Montgolfières, Massif Central – November 10-12
The end of the ballooning season is marked in style by this amazing event. Celebrating the first ever aeronauts, who achieved flight in November 1783, this is an out-of-this-world event in a stunning setting.
Balloonists from all over the world travel to Puy-en-Velay to take to the skies. Join them by booking a flight, or watch from the ground. Either way, a wonderful autumn adventure awaits.
Beaujolais Nouveau Day – November 15
Made to be enjoyed young, the first of the season’s Beaujolais is celebrated on the third Thursday in November with music, festivals and, of course, much uncorking of bottles.
Fireworks mark the opening of the first bottle at 1 minute past midnight, and there are over 100 related events taking place throughout the region. The town of Beaujeu hosts the best known: five days of festivities with drinking till dawn!
Christmas in Colmar, Alsace – November 23 – December 29
Christmas comes along a little early in Alsace, but when it’s as scenic and stunning as these 5 markets in a fairy-tale setting you really won’t mind.
Voted one of Europe’s best festive markets, you can wander the decorated Old Town and really get into the festive spirit. Enjoy food and drink, a warm welcome and a calendar of Christmas events too!
