What to do in France August 2024
Welcome to our August 2024 newsletter, packed with exciting events, festivals, and insider
tips for enjoying the best deals around France this summer. There’s something for everyone
to enjoy. Without further ado, let’s dive into the highlights of this vibrant month!
Festivals in France in August 2024
Les Fêtes De Dax (14-18 August)
Head over to Les Landes, a region in the south-west of France, to enjoy the infamous Fêtes de Dax! It is the perfect place to enjoy the summer atmosphere with plenty of festivities to plunge you into the region’s historical customs. The landaise bullfights (otherwise known as the course landaise) are one of four in the world and they date all the way back to the fifteenth century! However, these ‘fights’ would more appropriately be called shows, as unlike the Spanish torero there is no bloodshed involved. What is even more interesting, is the choice to have teams of coursières exclusively perform with cows and not bulls. The celebrations do not stop there, there’s plenty of music parades, parties and firework displays to see! Be sure to don your red and white attire to blend in with the crowd!
Find the 2024 programme here here.
Festival Interceltique De Lorient (2-11 August)
Every August, the town of Lorient in Brittany hosts the Festival Interceltique. It serves as a reunion for the regions originating from Celtic roots, notably, Brittany, Ireland, Scotland, Wales, and Galicia. The ten day celebration has been known to bring in thousands of visitors each year, even reaching over 800,000 visitors in 2010. Those in attendance can witness the Grande Parade of Celtic Nations down the streets of Lorient, a spectacular display of traditional costumes and dances, accompanied by music performances of renowned Celtic artists. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in the heritage of Celtic communities.
Provençal Tradition – Fête De La Lavande (15 August)
Looking for something to do on your jour férié (the 15th of August)? What better way than to spend it in the Provence region … and just in time for the Lavender Festival too! The flowers will be in full bloom painting the landscape purple, so it is the perfect opportunity to enjoy guided tours, workshops on how to make lavender products, and plenty of markets. You will find a range of lavender products, from honey to essential oils, proving that you can never have too much lavender in your life. Come down to Sault to see the purple fun!
Music Festivals – Rock En Seine (21-25 August)
If you are a fan of indie or rock music, the Rock en Seine is the festival for you. Taking place in the Domaine de Saint-Cloud (just outside of Paris), the incredible lineup promises to entertain with vigour for five whole days. From 2021 Eurovision winners Måneskin to British DJ Fred Again, the festival offers an immense range of talent and the chance to watch all of your favourites take the stage. The excitement is only enhanced by the art installations and gourmet food stalls that are dotted around the historical gardens of the Saint-Cloud park. Check out the lineup for your favourite artists and the specific attractions taking place.
Festival Du Film Francophone D’angoulême
27 August – 1 September
Angoulême is the place to be if you happen to be a cinema lover or just looking for an enriching gateway into the cinema world.. The charming town is hosting the Festival du Film Francophone. In fact, it is the FFA’s 17th anniversary. Here, french-language films from all around the world are given centre-stage, both from established or emerging filmmakers. A spectrum of screenings of feature films, documentaries, short films and premieres will be followed by panels and Q&A sessions with the directors and actors. Not only is this a great way to relax, but also a fantastic opportunity to network with fellow cinéphiles!
Sport – What To Do in France August 2024
Les Jeux Olympiques (26 July – 11 August)
The 2024 Olympic Games will be held in Paris. The city has been transforming for this spectacular event for a while now, with the river banks closing down, bridges becoming out of bounds and even some stations closing down! Make sure to get your QR codes if you need to cross into the blocked out areas (consult the government website for more information. Whilst everything is buzzing with excitement, here are a few events that will get you eager for the games to begin:
- Château de Versailles: The palace will host equestrian events and the modern pentathlon. Its grand architecture and beautifully maintained gardens will serve as a perfect venue for competitors and spectators alike.
- Eiffel Tower Stadium: Beach volleyball matches will be held at the iconic location of Champ de Mars.Having the Eiffel Tower as your backdrop is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience!
- Pont Alexandre III: The scenic views of the Seine and of the historic bridge will be the host of the cycling road events, marathon swimming, and the triathlon.
Fun Fact: Breaking, more commonly known as breakdancing, will make its Olympic debut this year. This addition is testament to the ever evolving nature of the games. The fact that space is being made for contemporary and urban sports shows the importance in engaging a younger audience!
Permanent Sports Facilities: The Aquatics Centre (found in Seine-Saint-Denis) and the Le Bourget Climbing Wall are the only permanent sports facilities built specifically for these games. Long after the games are over, the venues will provide lasting benefits to the Parisian communities.
Museums – What To Do in France August 2024
For those looking to enjoy something more relaxed, several museums in Paris offer free admission on the first Sunday of the month (4 August):
Musée Rodin: Explore the works of Auguste Rodin, one of the most celebrated French sculptors, including sculptures of statues like The Thinker (Le Penseur) and The Kiss (Le Baiser). The museum is inside an 18th-century mansion, offering a serene and elegant feel for art lovers.
Musée Picasso: This collection of Picasso’s works (the largest in the world), from paintings to sculptures, showcases his artistic evolution. The museum can be found in the Marais district, in a restored 17th-century hôtel particulier (mansion). Whilst you’re there, pop into the lovely shops and restaurants around.
Musée du Quai Branly – Jacques Chirac: Dedicated to the indigenous art and cultures of Africa, Asia, Oceania, and the Americas, this museum offers a rich and diverse experience, with both permanent and temporary exhibitions to your taste. The museum’s grand design and expansive garden are a sight to see in themself. Current exhibitions include: ‘Myriam Mihindou – Ilimb, l’essence des pleurs’, ‘Mexica – Des dons et des dieux au Templo Mayor’, and ‘Taïnoset et Kalinagosdes Antilles’. Be sure to get your tickets before the exhibitions change!
Château De Vincennes
Just outside of Paris, you will find the Château de Vincennes, which will remain open during the Olympics. The well-preserved keep of the Medieval fortress, the Sainte-Chapelle, and the surrounding parklands, the Bois de Vincennes, are open for visitors to enjoy . It is an impressive place for any appreciators of architecture and history.
We hope the Babylangues Instructors Community enjoys an exciting and festive month as we dive into summer. August 2024 in France is packed with events and cultural experiences to keep you entertained all season long. If you’re looking to stay busy and make the most of your summer, consider joining our team … apply now through our online form!
