Can’t Miss Events in France and When to Visit

France is one of the most visited countries in the world, and for good reason, too! There is something for everyone in this long-loved European nation. And, just like many other places in the world, the French love a good celebration!

Are you heading to France soon and want to attend a festival to set your vacation bar to the next level? Or maybe you want to see the real French culture of attending a one-of-a-kind celebration in the land of love and wine? Well, Adventures by Matt is here to help you make your decision-planning easier.

If you are planning your trip to France, it’s important to start early to be sure you know when to visit; you don’t want to be a week or two shy of the ideal festival of your dreams. Plus, you are likely to save a lot of money in the long run and know all the best tips to ensure a delightful experience. Thankfully, you have our guide to the best can’t-miss events in France and when to visit.

Besides the obvious Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, lavender fields, and sparkling coastline, France has plenty of things to see and do, especially when it comes to events! Whether you are a prospective filmmaker, fashion lover, sports fanatic, or just a lover of all things celebratory, France is guaranteed to have an event that aligns best with your interests. When planning your trip, be sure to coincide your travel dates with these can’t-miss events in France!

Brazil isn’t the only place in the world to celebrate Carnival! The Nice Carnival is a vibrant celebration of color, music, and tradition that takes place annually in late February or early March. This event is one of the largest carnivals in the world, attracting visitors from far and wide to its parades, floats, and exuberant street performances. From dazzling fireworks to intricately designed masks, the Nice Carnival offers a feast for the senses and a memorable experience for those looking to attend a festival while in France.

Located in one of the world’s most expensive and glamorous cities, the Monaco Grand Prix is one of the best can’t-miss events in France for sports enthusiasts. Usually held in May, it is one of the most iconic races in the Formula 1 calendar and attracts racing aficionados from all over the world. Against the backdrop of luxurious yachts and the Mediterranean, drivers navigate hairpin turns and narrow streets at high speeds, testing their skill and precision in this race of endurance. With the roar of engines and the rich Monaco lifestyle in full swing, the Grand Prix offers an unforgettable experience that blends high-octane excitement with a touch of elegance.

The Cannes Film Festival is renowned as one of the most prestigious film festivals in the world. Taking place in May on the southern coast of Cannes, it attracts filmmakers, celebrities, and film enthusiasts from across the globe. The festival showcases cinematic masterpieces, from avant-garde indie films to blockbuster premieres, set against the backdrop of the French Riviera. Beyond the red carpet glitz and glamour, the Cannes Film Festival is a celebration of creativity, innovation, and the magic of storytelling, making it a must-attend event for anyone passionate about the film industry.

Calling all music lovers! The Festival International de Jazz de Montréal, held in June or July, is one of the largest jazz festivals in the world. It draws music lovers from far for an impressive lineup of performances spanning jazz, blues, funk, and beyond. From intimate club shows to outdoor stages, the festival offers something for every musical taste, with renowned artists and emerging talents taking the spotlight. It’s a gathering where people gather to groove, connect, and celebrate the universal language of music, easily making it a can’t-miss event in France.

The Tour de France is a cycling spectacle that pedals its way through the landscapes of the country, typically held in July. As one of the world’s most prestigious and challenging cycling races, it is obviously an event to plan your trip around. From Paris to the mountains of the Alps and Pyrenees, riders set off on a grueling journey spanning thousands of kilometers over three weeks. Along the route, spectators line the streets to cheer on their favorite cyclists, creating an atmosphere of excitement. The Tour de France is a beloved summertime tradition that showcases the beauty and spirit of France like no other event.

Bastille Day is basically the French version of the 4th of July. Celebrated on July 14th, it’s a festive day that marks the French National Day. Commemorating the storming of the Bastille prison during the French Revolution, this day is filled with patriotic pride, parades, and spectacular fireworks displays across the country. People come together to revel in the spirit of liberty, equality, and fraternity. With street parties, lots of yummy cuisine, and plenty of fun festivities, Bastille Day is a can’t-miss event in France that is a time-honored tradition uniting the nation in celebration.

An event for 2024 only! The 2024 Paris Summer Olympics is set to take place from July 26th to August 11th. As the pinnacle of competition, the Olympics will bring together athletes from across the globe to compete in various sports, from track and field to swimming, gymnastics, and beyond. Against the backdrop of Paris’ iconic landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower and the Champs-Élysées, spectators will witness memorable moments of athleticism and triumph that will inspire generations to come. The 2024 Paris Summer Olympics promises to be an unforgettable celebration of sport and culture for athletes and fans alike and likely a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity; be sure to plan your trip accordingly.

Finally, fashion lovers and beauty queens, this one is for you! Paris Fashion Week is a dazzling showcase of style, held twice a year in February/March for the Fall/Winter collections and in September/October for the Spring/Summer collections. As one of the most prestigious events in the fashion world, it draws designers, models, celebrities, and fashion enthusiasts from around the globe to the streets of Paris. From haute couture masterpieces to cutting-edge streetwear, the runways come alive with collections that set the trends for the season ahead. Attendees are treated to a sensory feast of fashion, art, and culture that reaffirms Paris as the epicenter of style.

We hope you refer back to this guide when planning your next trip to France to align your visit with the best events! For more information or assistance with planning your trip, contact us here at Adventures by Matt; bon voyage!