This is the month where just about the whole of Northern France descends onto the beaches of the Côte d’Azur. On the radio, they announce “black weekends” which signify lots of Parisians heading south causing a rather lot of traffic. Everyone is finally on vacation. Don’t expect to see a …

On the 1st of May, make sure to visit the celebrations in Arles where the Fête des Gardians takes over the city. Worth a visit! You may even see the queen of les Arlesiennes. This is the month of public holidays in France. Make sure to be aware of store closings. I would …

Contributor blog post by Access Riviera: Happy Halloween! Halloween, usually celebrated on 31st October each year, has slowly been gathering steam since I first moved to France, but for expats who are used to lots of activities and events during Halloween you’ll have to remember that it isn’t a traditionally …

Contributor blog post by Ashley Tinker: August is a quiet month in Provence where everyone believes it to be their right to do absolutely nothing (farniente) that requires any energy (other than catching up with friends, sunbathing by the pool or on the beach) In September, there are plenty of festivals …

Contributor blog post by Ashley Tinker: Juillet/July Events in Provence 2017 It’s full summer here in Provence. The cigales are singing (quite loudly I must say!) and the sunflowers and lavender are in full bloom. The ballet (or science?) of knowing when to open and close your shutters has been mastered for all …

Contributor blog post by Aixcentric: As usual in June, so many events in Aix-en-Provence, some regular, others new – here goes: Talented local artist Jill Steenhuis will be showing her colourful Impressionistic paintings along with sculptures by her husband and son, Serge and Sergio Ruffato in the ancient rooms of …

Contributor blog post by Ashley Tinker: Punnets full of the best tasting strawberries you’ve ever imagined have arrived at the local veg shop. There are new leaves on the trees and yes, it’s my birthday month! The locals say that the season officially starts at Easter. To mark this, it …

Contributor blog post by Ashley Tinker: This is the month where just about the whole of Northern France descends onto the beaches of the Cote d’Azur. On the radio they announce “black weekends” which signify lots of Parisians heading south causing a rather lot of traffic. Everyone is finally on vacation. …

Contributor blog post by Ashley Tinker: Green Walnuts are traditionally picked on June 24th to make walnut wine June in Provence There are many events this month but the most common is the Fête de la Saint Eloi. Saint Eloi is the patron saint of metal workers, blacksmiths, cart drivers …

Contributor blog post by Aixcentric: This is an annual musical programme of recitals, rehearsals and concerts in the lead up to the 68th ‘Festival d’Aix-en-Provence’. A 15€ pass will get you in to everything; otherwise you can pay 5€ entry…though some events are free. PARADE(S) is the big free concert …Continue reading …