What Happens in France in August: Events, Festivals & Key Dates

Some of the most popular local events are the night markets held throughout summer. These are usually (but not always) organised by a local group of artisanal producers such as Agritonus here in Aigre and nationally, ‘Bienvenue a la Ferme’ – the focus is on food and local produce.

At the markets, stalls sell a variety of produce such as baked goods, artisanal oils, speciality meats, fresh fruit and vegetables, regional cheeses, and everything in between! This is a great spot to pick up homemade delicacies for your next apéro or for cooking at home. Sometimes there are also braseros where chefs will be happy to cook your freshly-bought steaks for you, or you might find ready-to-eat salads and snacks on sale.

Often, you will need to bring your cutlery and plastic crockery (some families also go all out and bring a tablecloth, napkins, etc!). Then you can sample the local delicacies and wines, and enjoy the music and live entertainment on offer. It is such a typically French evening!

Many departments organise free (or at a minimal charge) outdoor cinemas at various locations throughout the summer, especially in Charente (find out more here). Our local Parc des Charmilles hosts an annual open-air film screening, which is organised by the Mairie.

We love it. We take our picnic chairs, a flask of hot cocoa, and a torch, along with a blanket for our legs, as it begins around 9.30pm (tip: wear long, light summer trousers to avoid the mosquitos!). It’s dark by 10pm, and there’s something really special about an outdoor cinema.

Keep a lookout for signs advertising summer concerts and musical events. Here, we have local Cognac distilleries such as La Chevalerie, which host annual concerts with food trucks or caterers on site.

Local producers and craftspeople often also organise musical evenings with aperos to bring the community together and celebrate the summer weather. Cathedrals and abbeys may host summer concerts, too.

Frairies/Foires/Fêtes Forraines

Annual fairs known as frairies, foires, or fêtes forraines often spring up during the summer months, many of which offer funfair-style rides such as bumper cars and stalls such as ‘hook-a-duck’. Ours at Gourville always takes place on the first weekend in August and ends with a night walk and firework display.

There’s always lots going on at the coast, from more traditional night markets with many stalls and shops open until late to concerts, a variety of shows and fireworks or pyrotechnic displays. Here is what you can discover at Royan on the beautiful Atlantic coast.

Let us know in the comments!