Whether you’re into wine, electro-music, or art, Bordeaux has a festival for you! If you follow my newsletter, you already know that the Gironde region is full of events, which can sometimes feel overwhelming. In this article, I’ll highlight the biggest festivals and events in and around Bordeaux—those that draw visitors from across France and abroad. The list has two parts: the 10 best events in Bordeaux Metropole and the 10 major events in Gironde (outside of Bordeaux).
To discover even more events, check out my monthly event lists and subscribe to my newsletter for updates on markets and parties around the region.
The 10 best festivals and events in the Bordeaux Metropole
Carnaval des 2 drives
Held annually on the first Sunday of March, this carnival spans both sides of the Garonne. With costumes, shows, and a parade, each year brings a unique theme – see more details here.
Foire aux Plaisirs
This traditional fair happens twice a year (spring and fall) at Place des Quinconces. It offers rides, games, and fun for all ages. More info here.
For more stuff to do with kids in Bordeaux see my Bordeaux family guide.
Fête de la Morue
Celebrating codfish, this June festival in Bègles (an important center of codfish in France for two centuries) blends food and culture, featuring young artists. Learn more here.
ODP Music Festival in Peixotto
Every June, Parc Peixotto in Talence hosts one of Bordeaux’s best music festivals, with a stellar lineup. For more details and tickets go to the festival’s website.
Bordeaux Wine Festival
Each June, wine lovers gather along the Garonne for Bordeaux Fête le Vin. It’s the perfect event to explore the many appellations of the Bordeaux region, often overlooked by visitors. The festival features concerts, drone shows, workshops, and games. More info on their website.
Bordeaux Metropolitan Summer
Throughout July and August, over 100 cultural activities, including music, theater, and gastronomy, take place across the city. Check out the full program here.
Climax Festival
Held at Darwin in September, Climax focuses on environmental issues, with debates, concerts, and cultural events. More details here.
FAB – International Art Festival
In October, the FAB festival brings two weeks of dance, street art, and performances to locations around Bordeaux. See the program here.
Brocante des Quinconces
This twice-yearly flea market at Place des Quinconces features 200 antique dealers and artisans. The spring edition is in April-May, and the fall edition runs from November to December. More info here.
Marché de Noël de Bordeaux
In December, Bordeaux’s Christmas market lights up the center with 150 stalls offering holiday goods and local products. More info here.
For other chic Christmas markets, check out my article (will be updated in late October).
Best events and festivals in Gironde (the Bordeaux region)
Fête des Bœufs Gras
Since 1283, Bazas has hosted this festival celebrating its famous beef. The Thursday before Mardi Gras features an oxen parade, judged by experts, and a banquet to savor the renowned meat. More details here.
Bazas is one of the most beautiful villages in Gironde, see the full list here.
Open doors in Médoc
Every April, the Maison du Tourisme et du Vin de Pauillac hosts an open-door weekend. Visit châteaux in the Médoc region and taste world-class wines. For details about all the participating chateaux click here.
For more open-door events, check out my Portes Ouverts guide.
The Blaye Spring Wine Festival
Held every April at the Blaye Citadel, this festival gathers 80+ winemakers. Enjoy tastings, workshops, and guided visits by train or horse. Program and tickets here.
Open doors in Saint-Emilion
The first weekend of May sees Saint-Emilion’s châteaux opening their doors for tastings, tours, and family activities. The full program of the event with the participating châteaux and the activities taking place that weekend will be published here – here. You can also plan your trip to this wine region with my detailed guide to Saint Emilion.
See all the other open-door events taking place in the Bordeaux wine region this year.
Soulac 1900
This early June festival in Soulac-sur-Mer brings you back to the 1900s with free concerts and events in the town center. More details here.
Read more about what to do in Soulac and other towns nearby in my article about Medoc.
La Bataille de Castillon
During the summer, Castillon-la-Bataille hosts a grand reenactment of the 1453 battle. The town also offers medieval art workshops, tours, and exhibitions. For more info and tickets click here.
Andernos Jazz Festival
This popular jazz festival takes place in Andernos-les-Bains at the end of July. See details here.
Reggae Sun Ska music festival
Held every August at Domaine Equestre de Nodris in Vertheuil, this fun reggae festival boasts a great lineup of performers. Full lineup here.
The Medoc Marathon
The Médoc Marathon in September is famous for its stunning scenery, wine, and food. Even if you’re not running, enjoy the weekend’s festivities. See the program here.
See all the other things you can do in that region in my article about a weekend in Medoc.
Cabanes en fête
In December, Andernos-les-Bains celebrates oysters and wine with concerts, shows, and exhibitions. More details here.
You can also get plenty of tips on things to do in the Southwest of France via lost in Bordeaux’s social media accounts and email list, check them out here:
Facebook |Instagram |Email | Facebook group
If it’s your first time in Bordeaux you may also like to read some of the following “intro to Bordeaux” articles I wrote:
The Ultimate Guide to a weekend Bordeaux
The best districts in Bordeaux
Where to stay in Bordeaux
What to do in one day in Bordeaux
Things to do with kids in Bordeaux
