To help my readers plan their weekends in advance I decided to add quarterly editions of my “things to do in Bordeaux” lists, so here comes the winter edition!. The list includes the biggest events taking place in and around Bordeaux in January, February and the first half of March. I’ll continue releasing my weekend posts which will include both big and smaller events that I think you would love. In this article, however, I want to single out the big festivals, concerts, exhibitions, fairs and more. So let’s start with the winter edition of 2019.
Trente Trente – Emerging arts Festival
Trente Trente is an annual festival, created to promote emerging artists in Bordeaux and Nouvelle Aquitaine in general. The festival includes more than twenty performances by artists from all genres, with some experimenting with interdisciplinary arts. Check out the full program that includes dance, music, theater, circus and more. The festival takes place on January 18-31 in different theaters and cultural spaces across the metropole (see the full list here).
When: January 18 -31 Where: Diffent venues in the Bordeaux area (check out the full program)
Bordeaux rock Festival
The Bordeaux Rock festival will take place on January 23-27 in different music venues in Bordeaux: The Iboat, Quartier libre, El Chicho, L’avant scène, Void, La Tencha, La Voute, L’imperio, L’Antidote, and Salle des fêtes du grand parc. For the full program and tickets click here. Some of the events are free.
When: January 23-27 Where: Different venues in the Bordeaux area (check out the full program)
Winter Sales
Winter Sales have finally started a few days ago with great discounts on everything from clothes to shoes and electric supplies, so this is the time to hit the stores. Les soldesd’hiver will take place during six weeks between January 9 and February 19.
Braderie d’Hiver
Every winter the main streets of Bordeaux are getting filled with stands of clothes, shoes, toys, house supplies and more – this is the Bordeaux winter Braderie. If you’re in town for winter sales take the opportunity to check out the stands of more than 250 merchants on rue Porte Dijeaux, rue Sainte Catherine and rue des Trois Conils. The Braderie will take place on February 6-8.
When: February 6-8 Where: Center of Bordeaux: rue Porte Dijeaux, rue Sainte Catherine and rue des Trois Conils
International magic festival
The international magic festival will take place in Théâtre Fémina on January 25-27. This year seven world-class artists (magicians and illusionists) will offer you breathtaking spectacles that you wouldn’t want to miss. For more info and tickets click here.
When: January 25-27 Where: 10 Rue de Grassi, 33000 Bordeaux
Le Cirque Arlette Gruss
Arlette Gruss is a traditional French circus, founded in 1985. The circus has performed in Bordeaux several times in the last two decades and this time it’s coming back with a new show. This year they offer a free guided visit to the circus village to those who bought a ticket to the show. The circus tent will occupy the place de Quinconces from January 10 to February 6. For more details and tickets click here.
When: January 10 to February 6 Where:Place des Quinconces, 33000 Bordeaux
Salon des Antiques et des art contemporaine
The Salon of Antiques and contemporary arts is one of the biggest events in Bordeaux for Antique hunters. Around one hundred exhibitors, rigorously selected from different areas of France and other countries in Europe, will present their collections and knowledge in history and art. Le Salon des Antiques et des art contemporaine will take place at the Parc des Expositions from January 26 to February 3. Entry is 10 euros and free for kids under 15 years old. For more details click here.
When: January 26 – February 3 Where:Parc des Expositions, Bordeaux Lac, 33000 Bordeaux
Fête des Bœufs Gras
Bazas in the Southern part of Gironde is a beautiful town that attracts many people with its weekly market. But what Bazas is mostly known for is its Beef. Since 1283, on the Thursday before Mardi Gras, the city of Bazas hosts the famous “Fête des Bœufs Gras” that celebrates the Bazas Beef. An Oxen parade takes place on the central streets of the town with the Oxen judged by a jury of experts. The day ends with a banquet where you can taste the famous meet. The event will take place on February 28.
When: February 28 Where:Bazas, Gironde
Steven Wilson in concert
Steven Wilson is the lead singer of the British band Porcupine Tree, which also had an amazing solo career during the last 15 years. On January 22, he will perform his best songs at Théâtre Fémina. For more details and tickets click here.
When: January 22 Where: 10 Rue de Grassi, 33000 Bordeaux
Massive attack arrives to Bordeaux
The famous British band Massive Attack will take the stage of the Arkea Arena on February 14, a great date for Valentine’s day 🙂 For more details and tickets click here.
When: February 14 Where: 48-50 Avenue Jean Alfonséa, 33270 Floirac
Festival de 2 rives
Le Carnaval des 2 rives (March 3) takes place on both sides of the Garonne river. This is a modern festival (created in 1996) that has all the best features of a traditional carnival such as costumes, shows, and a big parade. The parade will start at 14:00 at the Allée Serr, on the right side of the river and will pass to the other side through Pont de Pierre ending at the Village Carnival at Place Pey-Berland at 15:30. The Village Carnaval will be open until 18:00 with a big scene including dancers and demonstrations of augmented reality. For more details click here.
When: March 3 Where: Starts at Allée Serr, Bastide, Bordeaux
Swing Festival
Every March, for more than a decade now, Bordeaux has been hosting the Swing Art Festival(March 15-17) where swing dancers come from all around the globe to teach the dancers of Bordeaux their art of Swinging. This festival is much more than just swing dancing, it’s three days of live music, art, vintage markets, workshops, and a get together of many people from all around the world to celebrate this sweeping dance. It will take place in and around Halle des Chartrons and it’s Free! For more details click here.
When: March 15-17 Where: 10 Place du Marché Chartrons, 33000
Jumping international de Bordeaux
Jumping International de Bordeaux is a big riding equestrian event that includes competitions, spectacles and a fun fair. The event will take place February 7 -10 in Parc des Expositions de Bordeaux. More than 250 exhibitors will present their horses at the event which will include activities such as: Jumping world cup, amateurs competition, Equine Health Forum, a show of Iberian horses and more. For more details click here.
When: February 7-10 Where: Cours Jules Ladoumegue, 33300 Bordeaux
Last chance to visit the Kaléidoscope exhibition
This is the last chance to see the beautiful street art exhibition in Institut Bernard Magrez. The Kaléidoscope exhibition is all about feminine art, hosting nine female street artists to present their works in a genre that is usually considered more masculine. The exhibition will be presented until February 17. For more info click here and here
When: Until February 17 Where: 16 rue de Tivoli, 33000 Bordeaux, France
Les Fous Rires de Bordeaux
Les Fous Rires de Bordeaux (16-23 March) is a very unique humor festival hosting more than 80 artists and different activities taking place all over the city. The festival is an opportunity to experience humor in different forms, such as live on stage, in pictures and even through cooking!!
There are two parts to the festival: Festival IN, with well-known artists on stage. Festival OUF– that proposes free activities during the whole week of the festival such as workshops, happenings, entertaining children in hospitals and more.
When: March 16-23 Where: Different locations in Bordeaux
That’s it for the winter edition of “the best things to do in Bordeaux”! If you’d like to see other things getting into my lists, just comment below and I’ll be happy to hear any suggestion. If you just like it the way it is, share it on facebook 🙂
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Just like in the last two weeks, most events on this list are related to Christmas. As we get closer to December 25, more and more Christmas markets are popping up in and around Bordeaux. I covered some of them in my article about Christmas markets in Bordeaux. If you still haven’t finished (or started) you Christmas shopping, take a look on my post about where to shop for Christmas in Bordeaux. However, if you’re fed up with Christmas I have few other suggestions such as the Bordeaux wine tasting festival, the kids theater festival, a special effect exhibition and more.
This is the list of things to do this weekend in Bordeaux (December 14-16):
Taste the best French wines
This month you have a chance to taste some of the best French wines in one place at an event called “Bordeaux Tasting”. During two days (December 15-16) more than a hundred wine houses from Bordeaux area and other regions in France like Bourgogne, Rhône, Alsace and Loire will be there to present their best wines. The tasting will take places in six different sites around Place de la Bourse: – Palais de la Bourse : les grands bordeaux / les cognacs / les grands invités – Le Gabriel : Pomerol Séduction – La Bulle : les bordeaux / bordeaux supérieur – Le Musée national des Douanes : les grands étrangers – l’Espace Saint-Rémi : les champagnes – la Maison Darnozan : l’espace des vins bio
Tickets are 23-27€ depending on the day. For more details click here.
When: December 15-16 Where: Place de la Bourse, Bordeaux
Drôle de Noël
For the 9th time the city of Talence invites you to their big Christmas celebrations taking place on December 14-30in Park Peixotto. For two weekends in a row (December 14-16, December 21-23) a Christmas market will take place in the park and on December 24-30 (except December 25) the park will host plenty of activities for kids. For more info click here.
When: December 14-30 Where: Parc Peixoto, 33400 Talence
Les lumières de la ville 2018
Les lumières de la ville is a great chance to discover how Bordeaux’s monuments look at night. It’s an hour and a half biking tour that will start at Place Pey-Berland and will finish at the Garage moderne for Christmas drinks. On the way you will get to see the most important monuments and all the beautifully decorated little streets of Bordeaux. The event will take place this Friday (December 14) at 19:00, it’s free and open to all. For more details click here.
When: December 14, at 19:00 Where: Place Pey-Berland, 33000 Bordeaux
Christmas Concert
A special Christmas concert will take place this Friday (December 14) at the Notre Dame church in Bordeaux. The girls choir of Bordeaux will take the stage accompanied by soprano Romie Estèves and Jérémie Genet on a cello. The event is free. For more details click here.
When: December 14, at 20:30 Where: 1 Rue Mably, 33000 Bordeaux, 33000 Bordeaux
Take your kids to Cirque Pardi!
Cirque Pardi! is a modern circus whose shows combine a lot of dance and humor and are very entertaining for both kids and adults. This year they are coming back to Bordeaux for the second time with their show BorderLand, which gained a great success on their last visit here in 2015. Cirque Pardi! will perform 15 shows from November 30 to December 22. The temporary circus will be located on Quai de queyries, just next to Darwin. For all the dates and tickets click here.
When: November 30- December 22 Where: 86 quai des Queyries, 33 100 BORDEAUX
Xmas Market – Darwin
This market is gradually gaining a status as one of the main Christmas markets in Bordeaux. Like Darwin itself, the Xmas market is an alternative event with craftsmen and regional creators. The market will include stands of clothes, jewelry, accessories, art objects, books, sport accessories and bio products. To make it more entertaining many activities will take place during these three days, among theme workshops for kids, tasting of bio products, concerts and other surprises. The market will take place on December 14-16, for more info click here.
When: December 14-16 Where: 87 quai des Queyries, 33100 Bordeaux
Marché & Cuisine De Rue
This is the other market Darwin will host this weekend (December 15-16) to accompany the Christmas market. The “market and street cooking” event will hosts local producers of organic food that will allow you to taste and learn about eco-responsible cooking. The event will take place at the Caserne de Noël just in front of the Christmas market. For more info click here.
When: December 15-16 Where: 87 quai des Queyries, 33100 Bordeaux
Le Marché de Noël des Halles
Les Halles de Bacalan are holding their Christmas market this week (December 14-16). Tens of creators will participate in the market, selling products like soaps, jewelry, accessories, kids clothes and more. The rich program of the event includes activities like kids room with creative workshops, pizza making, pony tours, Raclette de Noël and more. For more details click here.
When: December 14-16 Where: 10 esplanade de pontac, 33300 Bordeaux
Festival « Sur Un Petit Nuage » de Pessac
The city of Pessac invites you to a fantastic kids festival with plenty of live shows. This is the 17th edition of the festival and this time the program includes circus, dance, music concerts, theater and a puppet show as well as artistic workshops for kids. The festival Sur un Petit Nuage, will take place on December 16-22 in different locations in Pessac. See the full program here.
When: December 16-22 Where: different places in Pessac (check out the program)
Christmas Swing Party
Arbre de Noël is a Christmas swing party with a live band that will take place this Sunday (December 16) at La Salle Des Fêtes Bordeaux Grand-Parc. To get into the Christmas spirit, there is a dress code (white and red colors) and even a secret Santa game. if you want to take part in the Santa game be sure to bring a little gift (maximum 5€). Entry is 10€, for more info click here.
When: December 16 at 15:30 Where: 39 Cours de Luze, 33300 Bordeaux
Noël 2018 à Bergerac
If you want to travel a bit this weekend, visit the Bergerac Christmas market. Bergerac is one of the best markets in the south-west region with tens of stands, beautiful decorations and activities. The market takes place at place Louis de la Bardonnie on December 8-24. For more details check out the website of the market.
When: December 8-24 Where: place Louis de la Bardonnie, 24100 Bergerac
Marché de Noël de Bordeaux
The traditional Christmas market of Bordeaux will open its gates between November 30 and December 30. This is one of the biggest Christmas markets in the region with 150 pavilions selling all the traditional Christmas merchandise such as clothes, decorations, jewelry, toys and local products. Even if you don’t intend to buy any gifts at the market you can still enjoy the Christmas spirit with some hot wine and roasted chestnuts. For more info click here.
When: November 30 – December 30 from 10:30 to 21:30 Where: Allées de Tourny, 33000 Bordeaux
Le Marché de Noël Solidaire
The Solidarity Christmas market is part of the Social Economy and Solidarity month. This is a unique market, organized by the city hall and the local social development fund aiming to support young local creators who founded their company thanks to microcredits. The market will take place at Place Pey Berland on December 7-24. See more details here.
When: Until December 23 Where: Place Pey Berland
Arcachon Christmas market
The official Christmas market of Arcachon will start this weekend (December 15) and will continue until January 6. Besides the traditional market this one includes an open ice skating rink on place Thiers. For more info click here.
When: December 15- January 6 Where: center of Arcachon
L’Arche de Noël – creators market
L’Arche de Noël is a creators market taking place in the Chartrons neighborhood every weekend until Christmas (December 22-23 is the last event). Each weekend a group of local talented craftsmen and artists will present their original creations. See more details here.
When: Until December 23 Where: 23 Rue Minvielle, 33000 Bordeaux
Interactive special effects exhibition
Do you ever wonder how the special effects you see in movies are made? A new exhibition for kids (older than 6 yo) by the name of “Effets speciaux” is taking place these days in Cap Science. It’s an interactive exhibition that allows you to see the behind the scenes of the cinema world and experiment with different special effects like the green screen. Entry prices range from 6.5€ to 9€ and free for kids under 5 years old. For more info click here.
When: until August 26 Where: Hangar 20 quai Bacalan, 33000 BORDEAUX
I hope this weekend will be more cheerful than the last one! And if you’re afraid to go to the city center I hope I gave you enough ideas for events outside the center of Bordeaux.
If you want more tips on things to do and places to visit, be sure to subscribe here to my newsletter.
Have a great weekend!
Just like in the last two weeks, most events on this list are related to Christmas. As we get closer to December 25, more and more Christmas markets are popping out in and around Bordeaux. I covered some of them in my article about Christmas market in Bordeaux. If you are still haven’t finished (or started) you Christmas shopping, take a look on my post about where to shop for Christmas in Bordeaux. However if you’re fed up with Christmas I have few other suggestions such as Bordeaux wine tasting festival, kids theater festival, a special effect exhibition and more.
This is the list of things to do this weekend in Bordeaux (December 14-16):
Taste the best French wines
This month you have the chance to taste all the best French wines in one place at an event called “Bordeaux Tasting”. During two days (December 15-16) more than a hundred wine houses from Bordeaux area and other regions in France like Bourgogne, Rhône, Alsace and Loire will be there to present their best wines. The tasting will take places in six different sites around Place de la Bourse: – Palais de la Bourse : les grands bordeaux / les cognacs / les grands invités – Le Gabriel : Pomerol Séduction – La Bulle : les bordeaux / bordeaux supérieur – Le Musée national des Douanes : les grands étrangers – l’Espace Saint-Rémi : les champagnes – la Maison Darnozan : l’espace des vins bio
Tickets are 23-27€ depending on the day. For more details click here.
When: December 15-16 Where: Place de la Bourse, Bordeaux
Drôle de Noël
For the 9th time the city of Talence invites you to their big Christmas celebration taking place on December 14-30in Park Peixotto. For two weekends in a row (December 14-16, December 21-23) a Christmas market will take place in the park and on December 24-30 (except December 25) the park will host plenty of activities for kids. For more info click here.
When: December 14-30 Where: Peixoto, 33400 Talence
Les lumières de la ville 2018
Les lumières de la ville is a great chance to discover how Bordeaux’s monuments look at night. It’s an hour and a half biking tour that will start at Place Pey-Berland and will finish at the Garage moderne for Christmas drinks. On the way you will get to see the most important monuments and all the beautifully decorated little streets of Bordeaux. The event will take place this Friday (December 14) at 19:00, it’s free and open to all. For more details click here.
When: December 14, at 19:00 Where: Place Pey-Berland, 33000 Bordeaux
Christmas Concert
A special Christmas concert will take place this Friday (December 14) at the Notre Dame church in Bordeaux. The girls choir of Bordeaux will take the stage accompanied by soprano Romie Estèves and Jérémie Genet on a cello. The event is free. For more details click here.
When: December 14, at 20:30 Where: 1 Rue Mably, 33000 Bordeaux, 33000 Bordeaux
Take your kids to Cirque Pardi!
Cirque Pardi! is a modern circus whose shows combine a lot of dance and humor and are very entertaining for both kids and adults. This year they are coming back to Bordeaux for the second time with their show BorderLand, which gained a great success on their last visit here in 2015. Cirque Pardi! will perform 15 shows from November 30 to December 22. The temporary circus will be located on Quai de queyries, just next to Darwin. For all the dates and tickets click here.
When: November 30- December 22 Where: 86 quai des Queyries, 33 100 BORDEAUX
Xmas Market – Darwin
This market is gradually gaining a status as one of the main Christmas markets in Bordeaux. Like Darwin itself, the Xmas market is an alternative event with craftsmen and regional creators. The market will include stands of clothes, jewelry, accessories, art objects, books, sport accessories and bio products. To make it more entertaining many activities will take place during these three days, among theme workshops for kids, tasting of bio products, concerts and other surprises. The market will take place on December 14-16, for more info click here.
When: December 14-16 Where: 87 quai des Queyries, 33100 Bordeaux
Marché & Cuisine De Rue
This is the other market Darwin will host this weekend (December 15-16) to accompany the Christmas market. The “market and street cooking” event will hosts local producers of organic food that will allow you to taste and learn about eco-responsible cooking. The event will take place at the Caserne de Noël just in front of the Christmas market. For more info click here.
When: December 15-16 Where: 87 quai des Queyries, 33100 Bordeaux
Le Marché de Noël des Halles
Les Halles de Bacalan are holding their Christmas market this week (December 14-16). Tens of creators will participate in the market, selling products like soaps, jewelry, accessories, kids clothes and more. The rich program of the event includes activities like kids room with creative workshops, pizza making, pony tours, Raclette de Noël and more. For more details click here.
When: December 14-16 Where: 10 esplanade de pontac, 33300 Bordeaux
Festival « Sur Un Petit Nuage » de Pessac
The city of Pessac invites you to a fantastic kids festival with plenty of live shows. This is the 17th edition of the festival and this time the program includes circus, dance, music concerts, theater and a puppet show as well as artistic workshops for kids. The festival Sur un Petit Nuage, will take place on December 16-22 in different locations in Pessac. See the full program here.
When: December 16-22 Where: different places in Pessac (check out the program)
Christmas Swing Party
Arbre de Noël is a Christmas swing party with a live band that will take place this Sunday (December 16) at La Salle Des Fêtes Bordeaux Grand-Parc. To make get into the Christmas spirit, there is a dress code (white and red colors) and even a secret Santa game. if you want to take part in the Santa game be sure to bring a little gift (maximum 5€). Entry is 10€, for more info click here.
When: December 16 at 15:30 Where: 39 Cours de Luze, 33300 Bordeaux
Noël 2018 à Bergerac
If you want to travel a bit this weekend, visit the Bergerac Christmas market. Bergerac is one of the best markets in the south-west region with tens of stands, beautiful decorations and activities. The market takes place at place Louis de la Bardonnie on December 8-24. For more details check out the website of the market.
When: December 8-24 Where: place Louis de la Bardonnie, 24100 Bergerac
Marché de Noël de Bordeaux
The traditional Christmas market of Bordeaux will open its gates between November 30 and December 30. This is one of the biggest Christmas markets in the region with 150 pavilions selling all the traditional Christmas merchandise such as clothes, decorations, jewelry, toys and local products. Even if you don’t intend to buy any gifts at the market you can still enjoy the Christmas spirit with some hot wine and roasted chestnuts. For more info click here.
When: November 30 – December 30 from 10:30 to 21:30 Where: Allées de Tourny, 33000 Bordeaux
Le Marché de Noël Solidaire
The Solidarity Christmas market is part of the Social Economy and Solidarity month. This is a unique market, organized by the city hall and the local social development fund aiming to support young local creators who founded their company thanks to microcredits. The market will take place at Place Pey Berland on December 7-24. See more details here.
When: Until December 23 Where: Place Pey Berland
Arcachon Christmas markets
The official Christmas market of Arcachon will start this weekend (December 15) and will continue until January 6. Besides the traditional market this one includes an open ice skating rink on place Thiers. For more info click here.
When: December 15- January 6 Where: center of Arcachon
L’Arche de Noël – creators market
L’Arche de Noël is a creators market taking place in the Chartrons neighborhood every weekend until Christmas (December 22-23 is the last event). Each weekend a group of local talented craftsmen and artists will present their original creations. See more details here.
When: Until December 23 Where: 23 Rue Minvielle, 33000 Bordeaux
Interactive special effects exhibition
Do you ever wonder how the special effects you see in movies are made? A new exhibition for kids (older than 6 yo) by the name of “Effets speciaux” is taking place these days in Cap Science. It’s an interactive exhibition that allows you to see the behind the scenes of the cinema world and experiment with different especial effects like the green screen. Entry range from 6.5€ to 9€ and free for kids under 5 years old. For more info click here.
When: until August 26 Where: Hangar 20 quai Bacalan, 33000 BORDEAUX
I hope this weekend will be more cheerful than the last one! And if you’re afraid to go to city center I hope I gave you enough ideas for events outside the center of Bordeaux.
If you want more tips on things to do and places to visit, be sure to subscribe here to my newsletter.
This time my weekend list includes plenty of local creator markets, so if you want to discover local talent and support young creators this is a good opportunity. For those of you who are fed up with markets I have other suggestions such as an animation festival, an opening of a new covered market, a street art festival and more.
This is the list of things to do in and around Bordeaux this weekend (December 7-9):
EVENTS AND FESTIVALS
The opening of les Halles de Talence
The new covered market in Talence is about to open its doors this Friday (December 7) with a three days inauguration party. During the weekend you’ll meet the new merchants, listen to music and vote for the last stand that remains to be occupied. You can see more details and the list of stands to chose from here.
When: Opening party on December 7 Where: Place Alcala de Henares, Talence 33400
International Animation Films Festival
Les Nuits Magiques is an annual international festival of animation movies taking place at “Le Festival” cinema in Begles from November 28 to December 9. This is the 28th edition of the festival, which over the years gained a reputation in the animation and special effects world. The rich program includes plenty of events and activities for both kids and adults: premiers of new movies, workshops, meetings with film creators and more. Check out the full program here and all other details here.
When: November 28 – December 9 Where: 151 Boulevard ALBERT 1er, 33130 Bègles
Palmer Street’Art
This is a super cool art event where you can learn to create art in different styles from the artists themselves. The street art festival will take place this Saturday (December 8) at Rocher de Palmer in Cenon. The program includes eight artists from different genres proposing workshops such as graffiti, dj, video art, design and more. The event is free and open for all, see all the details here. For the full programs click here.
When: December 8, 14:00 to 19:00 Where: 1 rue Aristide Briand, 33150 Cenon
Bordeaux en livres
For its third edition, Bordeaux en Livres invites young and old bookworms, aspiring cartoonists and writers to discover the mysterious world of literature and comics. The program includes conferences with writers, comedy shows, photography exhibition, a drawing contest and more. There will be a big space dedicated to young story lovers with storytelling sessions for the little ones and a history workshop for older kids. The event will take place this Saturday (December 8) at the Grand-Théâtre de Bordeaux. The event is free, see the full program here and all the practical info here.
When: December 8 . 14:30 – 20:00 Where:Place de la Comédie33000 Bordeaux
The International dance en film festival
The international Danse en film festival is a meeting point of two artistic expressions, cinema and dance, which together create a very magical experience. The festival is taking place this week (until December 8) at the Utopia Cinema and some other venues in the center of Bordeaux. See the full program and all the details on the site of the festival.
When: December 3-8 Where: Center of Bordeaux, see the program for a specific event.
Cirque Pardi! is Coming Back
Cirque Pardi! is a modern circus whose shows combine a lot of dance and humor and are very entertaining for both kids and adults. This year they are coming back to Bordeaux for the second time with their show BorderLand, which gained a great success on their last visit here in 2015. Cirque Pardi! will perform 15 shows from November 30 to December 22. The temporary circus will be located on Quai de queyries, just next to Darwin. For all the dates and tickets click here.
When: November 30- December 22 Where: 86 quai des Queyries, 33 100 BORDEAUX
Last chance to buy antiques at the Brocante des Quinconces
This is the last weekend of the brocante of Bordeaux taking place at place des Quinconces. The big brocante includes more than 200 antique dealers, horticulturists, restaurants and craftsmen. For more info and the list of exhibitors check out the website of the event.
When: November 23- December 9 Where: Place des Quinconces
Buy clothes at the Grande Braderie
Le Relais Gironde will hold a clearance sale this Saturday (December 8) where you can buy clothes, shoes, bags and more. This event is quite big and you can find many interesting and useful items for cheap. For more details click here.
When: December 8 from 10:00 to 17:00 Where:517 boulevard Alfred Daney, Bordeaux
FOR KIDS
Make you Christmas decorations in a FabLab
Want your kids to make their own Christmas decorations? Cap Sciences invites your family to a DIY workshop, where you can make your decoration using the equipment in their Fablab. The workshop is open to kids older than 12 years old and requires pre-registration – book your visit here. The event, taking place this Saturday (December 8) will also include a tour in Cap Sciences. Entry is 5€, for more details click here.
When: December 8, at 14:30 Where: Hangar 20, Quai de Bacalan, 33300 Bordeaux
Opening of a temporary ice skating rink in Bègles
Centre Commercial Rives d’Arcins in Bègles will open this weekend a temporary ice skating rink for the Christmas season. To celebrate the opening they invite you to skate with the players of Les Boxers de Bordeaux (Bordeaux’s ice hockey team). The event will take place Saturday (December 8) at 15:00. For more details click here.
When: December 8, from 15:00 t0 18:00 Where: CCR Rives d’Arcins, 33130 Bègles
IBOAT – Le mini club de Noël
This Saturday (December 8) the Iboat will turn into a big party for kids (2 to 12 years old). The program includes skating, a dance floor for kids, candies and more. The entry is free, for more details click here.
When: December 8, at 15:00 to 18:30 Where: Quai Armand Lalande, 33300 Bordeaux
CHRISTMAS AND CREATORS MARKETS
Festival Made in Bordeaux
The idea behind Festival Made in Bordeaux is to promote local artists and creators. The event will take place this weekend (December 7-9) in Château des Tours in Le Bouscat. To see all the 43 exhibitors participating at the event click here. Entry is 2€ for 3 days and free for kids under 12 years old. For more details see here.
When: December 7-9 Where: 246 Avenue de la Libération Charles de Gaulle, 33110 Le Bouscat
Pop-up de Noël des Polichineuses
After two very successful events of “Les Rendez-vous des Polichineuses” in les Halles de Bacalan, that took place this year, they are coming back with a special Christmas pop-up market. The idea is to reduce consumption and to favor second hand and vintage items. The organizers of the event did a great job in choosing stylish accessories, furniture and home decor so you are guaranteed to find a lot of chic Christmas gifts. There’ll be also a dedicated place for kids so it’s really a family friendly event. The market will take place in Halles de Bacalan on December 6-9. For more info about the event and all the exhibitors click here.
When: December 6-9 Where: 10 Quai de Bacalan, 33300 Bordeaux
Marché de Noël de Bordeaux
The traditional Christmas market of Bordeaux will open its gates between November 30 and December 30. This is one of the biggest Christmas markets in the region with 150 pavilions selling all the traditional Christmas merchandise such as clothes, decorations, jewelry, toys and local products. Even if you don’t intend to buy any gifts at the market you can still enjoy the Christmas spirit with some hot wine and roasted chestnuts. For more info click here.
When: November 30 – December 30 from 10:30 to 21:30 Where: Allées de Tourny, 33000 Bordeaux
Marché des Créateurs Récycleurs
This event is both creative an environmentally friendly. The market of recycling creators gather 22 craftsmen that make their products from used materials. You will find stands of furniture, jewelry, sculptures, accessories and more. The event will take place this weekend (December 8-9) in ATELIER d’éco SOLIDAIRE. The entry is free, for more details click here.
When: December 8-9 Where: 7 rue de la Motte Picquet, 33300 Bordeaux
Etsy Made in France Bordeaux
This market is organized by the Etsy Made in France team with the goal to promote local independent creators. Come to experience a more cozy market of young passionate creators and hear their stories and inspiration for their work. The event will take place this weekend (December 8-9) in Garage Moderne. For more info click here.
When: December 8-9 Where: Garage Moderne – 1 Rue des Etrangers – 33300 Bordeaux
Le Marché de Noël Solidaire
The Solidarity Christmas market is part of the Social Economy and Solidarity month. This is a unique market, organized by the city hall and the local social development fund aiming to support young local creators who founded their company thanks to microcredits. The market will take place at Place Pey Berland on December 7-24. See more details here.
When: Until December 23 Where: Place Pey Berland
L’Arche de Noël – creators market
L’Arche de Noël is a creators market taking place in the Chartrons neighborhood every weekend until Christmas (December 22-23 is the last event). Each week a group of local talented craftsmen and artists will present their original creations.
When: December 8-9 Where: 23 Rue Minvielle, 33000 Bordeaux
Marché de Noël à Sarlat
If you’re in the mood to travel a bit this weekend, why not go to one of the best Christmas markets in South of France, the Sarlat Christmas martket. Sarlat is a magical places that is worth a visit any time of the year, but this market makes it even more worthwhile. The Christmas village opened its doors on December 5 and will continue until the end of December. The village includes 70 chalets selling local products, clothes, decorations, hot wine and more. For more info click here.
When: December 5-31 Where: Place de la Grande Rigaudie , 24200 Sarlat-la-canéda,
Yeah I know, it’s quite a heavy list this time. That’s why I divided it into three sections to help you see if this group of events is something that could interest you. As always, be kind and share the post on facebook, tweeter or pinterest
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This weekend the Christmas celebrations will officially start in Bordeaux with the inauguration of the Marché de Noël de Bordeaux and a few other alternative markets across the city. If you want to learn about the other markets taking place this month in Bordeaux, check out my top 10 Christmas markets list. But of course we’re not only about Christmas here, there are plenty of other events like the rum festival, the Well being Salon, a circus, the big Brocante of Bordeaux and more.
This is the list of things to do this weekend in and around Bordeaux (November 30 – December 2)
Rum Festival
This festival is the first big event in Bordeaux that is entirely dedicated to rum. While Bordeaux is mostly known for its wine, rum too has a long history in the city. The festival that will take place at La Grande Poste this weekend (December 1-2) celebrates the Bordelaise rum producers and merchants. Different masterclasses will take place during the festival, where you can learn to properly taste rum, match rum with food, mix rum cocktails and more. For more details and tickets click here.
If you want to learn more about the rum history of Bordeaux check out this super interesting post by Bordeaux Expat.
When: December 1-2 Where: 7 rue du palais gallien, 33000 Bordeaux
Marché de Noël de Bordeaux
The traditional Christmas market of Bordeaux will open its gates between November 30 and December 30. This is one of the biggest Christmas markets in the region with 150 pavilions selling all the traditional Christmas merchandise such as clothes, decorations, jewelry, toys and local products. Even if you don’t intend to buy any gifts at the market you can still enjoy the Christmas spirit with some hot wine and roasted chestnuts. For more info click here.
When: November 30 – December 30 from 10:30 to 21:30 Where: Allées de Tourny, 33000 Bordeaux
Cabanes en fête
This is one of the most anticipated events in Bassins d’Arcachon. Cabanes en fête is the oysters and wine celebration taking place in Andernos-les-Bains on December 1-2. Come to the Bassins to discover its oysters and celebrate Christmas with concerts and plenty of activities. The program will also include cooking lessons from six big chefs, a music concert, a flash-mob dance, exhibitions, fireworks and more. For more info click here and for the full program here.
When: December 1-2 Where: Port Ostreicole, 33510 Andernos-les-Bains
The Bassins a Flot Christmas Weekend
If you look for alternatives for the traditional Christmas market head north to the Bassins a flot. This weekend (December 1-2) all the cool places in this neighborhood will host Christmas related events. Among the participating places are: The Garage Moderne, Kfe des Familles, Les Vivres de l’Art, the IBOAT (see more info below), Musée Mer Marine Bordeaux and more. For all the details check out the Facebook page of the event.
When: December 1-2 Where: Different locations in Bacalan
Iboat – Christmas market on a boat
Le Super Marché de Noël is one of the coolest Christmas markets in Bordeaux. The Iboat is an old ferry that nowadays serves as a concert venue, frequently hosting funky events such as this one. The Iboat Christmas market is hosting 50 French creators and designers of textile, jewelry, kids toys, decorations and more. The market will also include a traditional touch such as food stands, hot wine and photo sessions with Père Noël (Santa Claus). You can see the full list of stands here. The event is free and will take place on December 1-2 from 11:00 to 19:00. For more info click here.
When: December 1-2 Where: quai Armand Lalande, 33300 Bordeaux
International Animation Films Festival
Les Nuits Magiques is an annual international festival of animation movies taking place at “Le Festival” cinema in Begles from November 28 to December 9. This is the 28th edition of the festival, which over the years gained a reputation in the animation and special effects world. The rich program includes plenty of events and activities for both kids and adults: premiers of new movies, workshops, meetings with film creators and more. Check out the full program here and all the other details you need here.
When: November 28 – December 9 Where: 151 Boulevard ALBERT 1er, 33130 Bègles
Brocante des Quinconces
The big brocante of Bordeaux is hosted twice a year at place des Quinconces with 200 antique dealers, horticulturists, restaurants and craftsmen. This fall edition of the brocante will take place from November 23 to December 9. Although it’s quite upscale, you can find some fine antiques and vintage pieces at a bargain price. For more info and the list of exhibitors check out the website of the event.
When: November 23- December 9 Where: Place des Quinconces
The Salon Bien-être
The big Well-being Fair of Bordeaux will take place this weekend (November 31- December 2) at the Palais des Congrès. The event has 120 stands and 65 conferences all focused on different ways of improving the quality of life. The exhibitors are varied and come from all aspects of daily life: food, home decor, therapies and beauty. For more info click here.
When: November 31- December 2 Where: Palais des Congrès, Cours J.-G. Domergue.33300 BORDEAUX
Bonjour Sneakers
Great news for sneakers addicts! This Sunday (December 2) a huge event all dedicated to sneakers will take place in Hangar 14. If you were looking for a special pair of sneakers or some cool accessories that goes with them, this is the event for you! Tickets are 13 euros and you can purchase them here. For more info click here.
When: December 2, 11:00-19:00 Where: 173 Quai des Chartrons, 33300 Bordeaux, France
New children’s book presentation
If you’re looking for a kids friendly activity in the center of Bordeaux, this is a nice one. Oriana Villalon is a young author who just published a beautiful kids book called “Lulu under the moon”. This Saturday (December 1) the painter Jean-Pierre Beyries will host her and the translator Pamela Ortega Joa (both living in Bordeaux) for a fun afternoon where they will present the book. If you’re looking for a nice Christmas gift, a beautiful book signed by the author could be a nice idea. See more details here.
When: December 1, at 14:00 Where: 43 Rue Sainte-Colombe, 33000 Bordeaux, France
Open Doors in the Chateaux of Pessac-Léognan
I know I’ve been writing quite a lot about Open doors at different Chateaux lately, but this week it’s really close to Bordeaux and its a great wine so I thought you wouldn’t want to miss the opportunity. This weekend (December 1-2) l’Appellation Pessac-Léognan is holding an open doors weekend with 34 chateaux hosting you for wine tastings, tours, gourmet food and plenty of activities for kids. Some of the participating chateaux are Château de Léognan, Château Pape Clément and Château Haut-Lagrange , for the full list of Chateaux and more info about the open doors weekend click here.
When: December 1-2 Where: Bordeaux metropole (Check out the link above for the full list of events).
Free museums Sunday
Like in most cities in France, the first Sunday of the month is a free museums day. You have a free entrance to all the public museums and to most exhibitions. Check out the full list of the museums in Bordeaux that you can visit for free this Sunday.
CAPC museum in Bordeaux
L’Arche de Noël – creators market
L’Arche de Noël is a creators market taking place in the Chartrons neighborhood every weekend until Christmas (December 22-23 is the last event). Each week a group of local talented craftsmen and artists will present their original creations. This weekend (December 1-2) the stands will include jewelry, kids clothes, graphic designs, furniture and more.
When: December 1-2 Where: 23 Rue Minvielle, 33000 Bordeaux
Cirque Pardi! is Coming Back
Cirque Pardi! is a modern circus whose shows combine a lot of dance and humor and are very entertaining for both kids and adults. This year they are coming back to Bordeaux for the second time with their show BorderLand, which gained a great success on their last visit here in 2015. Cirque Pardi! will perform 15 shows from November 30 to December 22. The temporary circus will be located on Quai de queyries, just next to Darwin. For all the dates and tickets click here.
When: November 30- December 22 Where: 86 quai des Queyries, 33 100 BORDEAUX
Cirque deNoël de Bordeaux
If you’re looking for a family activity, the Christmas circus of Bordeaux will take place between December 1 and January 6. This impressive spectacle for kids and adults has more than 30 artists from 15 different countries. The shows will take place at the Hippodrome de Bordeaux in Le Bouscat. For tickets and more info click here.
When: December 1-January 6 Where: 8 Avenue de l’Hippodrome, 33110 Le Bouscat
marché du carnet de voyage
A very inspiring event for travelers will take place this weekend (December 1-2) in Marché des Douves. Marché du carnet de voyage is a traveling literature event which allows you to travel through words into different places and cultures. Throughout the weekend interesting meetings with take place with writers, illustrators, cartoonists and travelers who crossed the world and came back with fascinating stories. For more details click here.
When: December 1-2 Where: Halle des Douves, 4 rue des Douves, 33000 BORDEAUX
Le Grand Bazar des Créateurs
The Garage Modere in the Bacalan district will hold a very fun and creative event this weekend (December 1-2) called the Big Creators market. Around 20 local craftsmen and creators of clothing, jewelry, leather goods, accessories, sewing and photography, will offer their original products for sale. The event is free, for more details click here.
When: December 1-2 Where: 1 rue des Etrangers, 33300 Bordeaux
Union Saint-Jean Xmas Market
Here’s one more Christmas market that didn’t make it to my list. The Union Saint-Jean organizes its own market this year, that will include stands of local creators, a vintage clothing sale, a dj set, a relaxation area (with massages), a workshop to create your own little Christmas tree, a food truck and a bar. The event will take place this Saturday (December 1), for more details click here.
When: December 1 Where: 97, rue Malbec, 33800 Bordeaux, France
That’s it for this week my friends! if I made your weekend happier with some funky and interesting events, help this site thrive and share the post on facebook, tweeter or pinterest 🙂
As I promised, this week my mailing list subscribers will receive a special email with more tips about things to do in Bordeaux. So if you’ve already subscribed there’s something to wait for and if you haven’t, what are you waiting for? Subscribe here 🙂
My brocante loving readers will be very happy to know that the big brocante of Bordeaux (Brocante des Quinconces) starts this Friday. If antiques is not your thing, there’s a huge variety of other events such as the literature, the history and the zero waste festivals along with the open doors of the Bordeaux galleries, all happening this weekend in and around Bordeaux. We start feeling the Christmas spirit with a few creators markets opening up allowing you to start looking for Christmas gifts. Keep an eye on the blog in the next few days as I am about to publish a little guide to Christmas markets in our region. If you need some lighter weekend plans in Bordeaux there are some wine, food and music related events as well :). This is the list of things to do this weekend in the Bordeaux area (November 23-25):
Brocante des Quinconces
The big brocante of Bordeaux is hosted twice a year at place des Quinconces with 200 antique dealers, horticulturists, restaurants and craftsmen. This fall edition of the brocante will take place from November 23 to December 9. Although it’s quite upscale, you can find some fine antiques and vintage pieces at a bargain price. For more info and the list of exhibitors check out the website of the event.
When: November 23- December 9 Where: Place des Quinconces
Festival Zéro Déchets Zéro Gaspi (ZZ)
Festival ZZ is a an event that aims to make you reflect on the changes you can make in your life to reduce your waste to the minimum level. Although the topic is serious, the event has a very fun and festive atmosphere: workshops, games, concerts, exhibitions, a fashion show, drones demonstrations, cooking competitions and more. This event is both fun and important for kids and adults. Festival ZZ will take place at at Hangar 14 (Quai des Chartrons) on November 23-24.
When: November 23-24 Where: 173 Quai des Chartrons, 33300 Bordeaux,
Bordeaux galleries weekend
This weekend (November 23-25), 13 galleries in Bordeaux will open their doors to the public and present the best contemporary art Bordeaux has to offer. The artists come from a variety of disciplines which will allow you to explore new forms of art. You can see the map of all the participating galleries here. For more info about the event, click here.
When: November 23-25, from 14:00 to 19:00 Where: see the map here.
International History films festival
The theme of the 29th edition of the Festival international du film d’histoire of Pessac, taking place November 19-26 is “1918-1939 La drôle de paix” (the funny peace). The rich program of the festival includes debates and lectures with several historians as guests and screenings of more than a 100 movies, from classics to works of heritage, rare or unpublished films, previews, fiction and documentaries. For more info and the full program click here and for ticket prices click here.
When: November 19-26 Where: several venues in Pessac center – check out the end of the program
les Journées Gourmandes Loupiac & Foie Gras
In the last twenty years Loupiac has been hosting the Loupiac & Foie Gras event that allows people to get familiar with the sweet wines of Loupaic and meet the farmers of the department and taste their gourmet production. On the 21st edition of the festival, that will take place on November 24-25, 18 chateaux will open their door to the public and will offer plenty of activities such as workshops, guided tours, tastings, exhibitions and more. On Saturday evening a big gourmet cocktail event will be hosted by two chefs, Christophe Girardot (a Michelin star chef) and Solenn Lemonnier,
for reservations contact: 0556626271/ infos@vins-loupiac.com . For more details about the festival click here and here.
When: November 24-25 Where: Different chateaux in Loupiac-De-Cadilla
Lettres du monde
The literature festival, Lettres du monde, is taking place on November 16-25 with lectures and debates in different venues across Bordeaux Metropole. Events will take place in libraries, schools, book stores, cinemas and others.
You can enjoy this festival even if you don’t speak French as most of the writers participating in the lectures are coming from all over the world, from Yemen, Syria, Spain, Haiti and more. For the full program click here and for more details here.
When: November 16-25 Where: Different places in Bordeaux – check the program
Emmaüs Salon in Darwin
This weekend (November 24-25) Darwin invites you to the 7th edition of the Emmaüs salon. Emmaüs is an international solidarity movement that has a big second hand store in Darwin. For more info click here.
When: November 24-25, from 10:00 to 18:00 Where: 87 quai des Queyries, 33100 Bordeaux,
Kaléidoscope – Street art exhibition
One of my favorite art venues in Bordeaux, l’Institut Culturel Bernard Magrez has finally opened a new street art exhibition. The Kaléidoscope exhibition is all about feminine art, hosting nine female street artists to present their works in a genre that is usually considered more masculine. The exhibition will be presented until February 17. For more info click here .
When: until February 17 Where: 16 rue de Tivoli, 33000 Bordeaux
Geese Festival
Every winter more than 50,000 gees find refuge in the Arcachon area. The gees festival (Festival de la Bernache), taking place on November 17- 25, gives you a unique opportunity to discover this species in a festive atmosphere. In the program: boat trips, guided tours, conferences, concerts, workshops on comics creation, photo exhibition and more. The activities of the festival will be held in different places on the Bassin, among them: Gujan-Mestras, Andernos-les-Bains, Arès, Lanton, Arcachon, La Teste-de-Buch and more. Don’t forget to reserve a spot for the different activities here. For more info click here.
When: November 25 Where: the center of Podensac
Marché des producteurs au Château Fombrauge
Château Fombrauge invites you to its first local products market that will take place this Saturday (November 24). The event includes meetings with local producers, tastings and a guided visit in the chateau. The event is free but registration is requited for the guided tour (05 57 26 38 34). For more info about the participating stands click here.
When: November 23 (9:00-14:00) Where: 1 Fombrauge, 33330 Saint-Christophe-des-Bardes
Jazz weekends at the Caillou
This is the last month of the Fall program at the Caillou Jazz bar in Jardin Botanique where different musicians and groups take the stage every weekend. This weekend Roger Biwandu will perform on both Friday (November 23) and Saturday (November 24).
When: Noevmber 23-24 Where: Le Caillou du Jardin Botanique, Esplanade Linné, 33000 Bordeaux
Swing Party
A swing concert and party will take place this Friday (November 23) at the Quartier Libre club in Saint Michel. It’ll start with a swing lesson at 20:00 and will continue with a concert of Confit de Swing. The entry is free and a chic outfit is obligatory :). For more info click here.
When: November 23, at 20:00 Where:30 rue des Vignes, 33800 Bordeaux
Perry Gordon au Café Brun
The American Jazz musician, Perry Gordon, accompanied by his group, will perform in Café Brun this Sunday (November 25) at 18:00. For more details click here.
When: November 25 at 18:00 Where: 45 Rue Saint-Rémi, 33000 Bordeaux,
That’s it for this week! Hope there’s enough events on this list to fill your weekend with plenty of interesting stuff! If you have other suggestions and events you know about, please write a comment below! And I’d really be happy if you share this post with your friends on social media 🙂
For those subscribed to my newsletter, I haven’t been very active there lately, but starting next week I will be sending some of my discoveries in Bordeaux directly by mail only to my email subscribers! So if you aren’t subscribed to my newsletter yet do it now, and get some great recommendations about places to visit in Bordeaux.
This weekend Bordeaux hosts the big foodies festival, S.O. good. It’s also a good weekend to be heading to Bassin d’Archachon where two interesting festivals are about to take place: the Geek festival and the Gees Festival (they kind of sound the same, now that I think of it :)). Darwin is always a perfect solution for the weekend and this time they are hosting an organic wine market. Other events this weekend include a piano festival, Cirque du Soleil shows, a literature festival, concerts, exhibitions and more. The list is long so let’s get started on things to do this weekend in Bordeaux (November 16-18):
S.O. Good Festival
This is one of the biggest events to take place during fall in Bordeaux. The S.O Good festival is a gastronomic happening that aims to highlight the talent found in the Nouvelle Aquitaine gastronomic scene and to celebrate local products. The event will take place at Hangar 14 (Quai des Chartrons) on November 16-18. The festival’s program includes more than 100 local producers hosted by the Hangar, many chef workshops in the city center, a night feast on Saturday and a farmers’ brunch on Sunday. This festival is not exclusively French, the opening event in Palais de la Bourse will be dedicated to Italian cuisine. This is one of the most important culinary events in the region and many Michelin star chefs are taking part in it. The price of the festival pass is 12€ and 10€ on pre-sale. For tickets and the full program click here.
When: November 16-18 Where: 173 Quai des Chartrons, 33300 Bordeaux, France
Organic Wine Market in Darwin
Les Barriquades is the biggest market of bio wines in the region, an event that will take place this weekend (November 17-18) in Darwin. On the menu, a huge selection of organic wines from Bordeaux, Saint Emilion, Bergerac, Jurançon and other regions in France such as Alsace, Fitou, Minervois and more. The entry is free. For more info click here.
When: November 17-18 Where: 87 quai des Queyries, 33100 Bordeaux, France
Piano Festival
The 9th edition of the Festival L’esprit du Piano is currently taking place at the Auditorium of the Opera of Bordeaux (until November 26). This magnificent festival hosts some important pianists like Chick Corea, Yefim Bronfman, Deszo Ranki and Bertrand Chamayou and others, some of whom will collaborate with the National Orchestra of Bordeaux and the choir of the Opera of Bordeaux. One of the biggest names to take the stage of the Auditorium is the Jazz legend, Abdullah Ibrahim. See the program of the festival here and info about tickets here.
When: November 9-26 Where: Grand Théâtre, Place de la Comédie – 33 000 Bordeaux
Cirque du Soleil
The magnificent Cirque du Soleil are coming to Bordeaux with the show, Ovo, a tale about insects with original music and beautiful new costumes. The circus will give six shows on November 14-18 at the Arkea Arena in Floriac. For tickets click here and for more info about the show look here.
When: November 14-18 Where: Arkéa Arena, 48-50 Avenue Jean Alfonséa, 33270 Floirac.
Bassin Geek Festival
If you enjoyed the Bordeaux Geek Festival a few months ago, it’s time for the winter edition with the Bassin Geek Festival. The program includes all the things the geek community loves: comics, sci-fi, web culture, video games, parallel worlds, creative industries and more. The festival will take place at the Parc des Expositions de La Teste De Buch on November 17-18. Check out the full program and all the details here and ticket prices here.
When: November 17-18 Where: 940 Avenue de l’Europe. 33260 La Teste-de-Buch
Burdigame Games Festival
Come share your passion for games at the annual Burdigame Games Festival taking place this weekend (November 17-18) in Lormont. Cooperative , construction, board and outdoor games, this festival has it all. It’s a chance for you to discover new games and to get nostalgic with old childhood games. Entry is 2 € and the family pass is 4 €.For more info click here.
When: November 17-18 Where: Pôle Brassens Camus, Rue des Gravières 33310 Lormont
Lettres du monde
The literature festival, Lettres du monde, will take place on November 16-25 with lectures and debates in different venues across Bordeaux Metropole. Events will take place in libraries, schools, book stores, cinemas and more.
You can enjoy this festival even if you don’t speak French as most of the writers participating in the lectures are coming from around the world, from Yemen to Syria, Spain and Haiti. For the full program click here and for more details here.
When: November 16-25 Where: Different places in Bordeaux – check the program
Bordeaux Cata Raid 2018
The 6th edition of the the Catamaran race will take place this weekend (November 16-18) in the Garonne river, just next to the central quais. This beautiful event, organized by the les Marins de la Lune club include tens of crew members that will pass next to the quai to honor the city. The view is guaranteed to be spectacular. For more details click here.
When: November 16-18 Where: starts at 103 quai des Queyries, 33100 Bordeaux, France
Geese Festival
Every winter more than 50,000 gees find refuge in the Arcachon area. The gees festival (Festival de la Bernache), taking place on November 17- 25, gives you a unique opportunity to discover this species in a festive atmosphere. In the program: boat trips, guided tours, conferences, concerts, workshops on comics creation, photo exhibition and more. The activities of the festival will be held in different places on the Bassin, among them: Gujan-Mestras, Andernos-les-Bains, Arès, Lanton, Arcachon, La Teste-de-Buch and more. Don’t forget to reserve a spot for the different activitieshere. For more info click here.
When: November 17-25 Where: Different places on the Bassin d’Arcachon
L’Arche de Noël – creators market
L’Arche de Noël is a creators market taking place in the Chartrons neighborhood every weekend until Christmas (December 22-23 is the last event). Each week a group of local talented craftsmen and artists will present their original creations. This weekend (November 17-18) the stands will include jewelry, kids toys and clothes, textiles, bags and more.
When: November 17-18 Where: 23 Rue Minvielle, 33000 Bordeaux
Second hand toys market
If you are planning to travel in the South of Gironde, stop by the charming village of Villandraut, where a second hand market for toys will take place this Saturday (November 17). For more info click here.
When: November 17 Where: Salle Des Fetes, 1 Place Paul Dunesme, 33730 Villandraut
Kids books and comics festival
The annual kids books and comics festival will take place this Saturday (November 18) at the Halles de Gascogne in Leognan. More than 3000 books will be presented at the event which also includes spectacles, activities for kids, games and more. Many authors and editors will take part in the event and will sign books. See the full program here. For more details check out the facebook page of the event.
When: November 17 Where: Place Joane, 1 Rue Louise Michel, 33850 Léognan
Arrested Development at the Rocher de Palmer
Arrested Development, a hip hop group that gained world popularity in the 90th with its hit “People Everyday” will take the stage of Rocher Palmer this Sunday (November 18 at 20:30). Tickets range between 23 € and 28 € – click here for more info and tickets.
When: November 18 at 20:30 Where:1 Rue Aristide Briand, 33152 Cenon
Open Stage at the Grande Poste
This Saturday (November 17) the Grande Poste will host professional and amateur musicians, comedians and dancers for an open stage evening. Come and enjoy an evening of music and fun around drinks and a piano. The event is free and open for all. For more info click here.
When: November 17 starting 21:00 Where: 7 Rue du Palais Gallien, 33000 Bordeaux
Kaléidoscope – Street art exhibition
One of my favorite art venues in Bordeaux, l’Institut Culturel Bernard Magrez, is about to open a new art exhibition this month. The Kaléidoscope exhibition is all about feminine art, hosting nine female street artists to present their works in a genre that is usually considered more masculine. The exhibition will be presented until February 17. For more info click here and here
When: November 13- February 17 Where: 16 rue de Tivoli, 33000 Bordeaux
Exposition 3/1 – Espace Saint-Rémi
La Spirale association invites you to a collective exhibition by three local artists: Magalie Darsouze (visual artist), Benjamin Monteil (engraver) and Chris Pillot (painter). The exhibition will be presented at the beautiful Espace Saint-Rémi on November 7-17. The entrance is free. See more info here.
When: November 7-17 Where: 4 rue Jouannet à Bordeaux
The Chateaux of Sauternes et Barsac will open their doors to the public this weekend so if you love sweet wine this weekend is a treat. If you prefer to stay in town there are plenty of other things to do like a yoga festival in Darwin, a craftsmen market in Chartrons, a piano festival, a World music festival and more.
Here’s the list of things to do this weekend in and around Bordeaux (November 9-11):
Open doors in the Chateaux of Sauternes et Barsac
Sauternes et Barsac are two wine areas (appellation d’origine contrôlée) famous for their sweet white wine. This weekend (November 10-11) 50 wine producers of Sauternes et Barsac invite you to an open door weekend, with a program that will include wine tastings, visits in the châteaux, gourmet food, concerts and activities for kids. Some of the participating châteaux are: Château La Tour Blanche, Château Coutet à Barsac, La Maison du Vigneron Sauternes, Château Suduiraut, Château de Rayne Vigneau, Château Caillou. You can see all the châteaux on the photo below.
When: November 10-11 Where:Sauternes et Barsac– chose your chateau from the program
BLISS YOGA Festival
The Bliss Yoga festival will take place this weekend (November 10-11) in Darwin. The program of the festival includes 30 courses that aim to make you discover different types of yoga no matter what level you are. Although yoga is the main event, there will be other activities like workshops, different information stands, a well being space, kids area, a photography exhibition, bio products and more. For more info check out the website of the festival and the facebook page of the event.
When: November 10-11 Where: Darwin Ecosystème, 87 quai des Queyries
Halles de Bacalan – 1 year anniversary
Halles de Bacalan invites you to celebrate their first anniversary with a super gourmand event on the weekend of November 9-11. This fun market is one of the best places for drinks with friends, especially on rainy weekends, so this event is guaranteed to be good. For more info check out the facebook page of the event.
When: November 9-11 Where: 10 esplanade de pontac, 33300 Bordeaux,
Piano Festival
This is the 9th edition of the Festival L’esprit du Piano that will take place at the Auditorium of the Opera of Bordeaux on November 9-26. This magnificent festival hosts some important pianists like Chick Corea, Yefim Bronfman, Deszo Ranki and Bertrand Chamayou and others, some of whom will collaborate with the National Orchestra of Bordeaux and the choir of the Opera of Bordeaux. One of the biggest names to take the stage of the Auditorium is the Jazz legend, Abdullah Ibrahim. See the program of the festival here and info about the tickets here.
When: November 9-26 Where: Grand Théâtre, Place de la Comédie – 33 000 Bordeaux
Remembrance day ceremonies- November 11
This Sunday (November 11) is remembrance day in France and some events will take place in Floirac to commemorate the centenary of the armistice of the First World War. For more details click here.
When: November 11, 9:00-12:00 Where: Floirac, see the program
Centenaire de l’armistice de la 1ère Guerre Mondiale – Exhibition
This year is the centenary of the armistice of the First World War and as part of the commemoration the city will present an exhibition of different objects, posters and archives related to the war. The exhibition will be presented at the Town Hall in Floriac between November 6 and November 17 and in Espace Lucie Aubrac on November 11. For more info click here.
When: November 6-17 Where: 6 avenue Pasteur BP 110, 33270 Floirac
Jazz Festival in Caudéran
The second edition of the Jazz festival of Caudéran will take place on November 8-10. Three days with 6 concerts: Robin & the Woods, IepXtet – création musicale de Sébastien Iep Arruti, Lorenzo Naccarato trio, Itamar Borochov quartet, Saxtape and the Nicolas Folmer Horny Tonky experience. For more info about prices and the full program click here.
When: November 8-11 Where: La Pergola Theater, Rue Fernand Cazères, 33200 Bordeaux
Salon Ob’Art
Le salon Ob’Art (Objets de créateur) is a creators fair with a rich pedagogic program of activities, workshops and demonstrations. The aim of the event is to create a dialog between artists, craftsmen and the wide public in order to transfer their know-how and to make the young generation discover a variety of professional vocations. The event will be dedicated to Japanese philosophy and craftsmanship. Le Salon Ob’Art will take place in Hangar 14 (Quai des Chartrons) on November 9-11. Entry is free for kids under 18 years old and 6 € for adults (free on the first day). For more info check out the website of the event.
When: November 9-11 Where: 173 Quai des Chartrons, 33300 Bordeaux
L’Arche de Noël – creators market
L’Arche de Noël is a creators market that will take place in the Chartrons neighborhood every weekend until Christmas (November 22-23 is the last event). Each week a group of local talented craftsmen and artists will present their original creations. This weekend (November 10-11) the stands will include jewelry, kids toys, textile, graphic design and more.
When: November 10-11 Where: 23 Rue Minvielle, 33000 Bordeaux
Festival Toutes Latitudes
Festival Toutes Latitudes is taking place this week (November 7-11) in Rocher de Palmer in Cenon. The festival celebrate diversity through world music with musicians from all the the world. The lineup includes the Malian singer Oumou Sangaré (the black Tina Turner), the Turkish guitarist Bilal Karaman, the Algerian band Babylone and more. To see the full program and buy tickets clickhere and for more info check out the facebook page of the event.
When: November 7-11 Where: 1 rue Aristide Briand, 33150 Cenon
Salon des Grandes Ecoles
The Salon of the “Grandes Ecoles” is an event where the most prestigious institutions in the French higher education come to present their schools to future students. The Salon will take place this Saturday (November 10) at the Palais des Congrès. The event includes conferences and meetings with representatives from the schools who will present you their academic programs. For more info click here.
When: November 10 Where: Espace Pluriel, Avenue Jean Gabriel Domergue, 33300 Bordeaux
Bordeaux Medoc Lyrique comtest
The finals of the International singing competition of the Opera of Bordeaux will take place this weekend (November 9-10) at the Opera. Some of the young singers are coming from the biggest opera houses and theaters in France and abroad such as Opéra de Zurich, Opéra National de Bordeaux, Opéra national de Paris, Semperoper Dresde, Théâtre du Bolchoï and Théâtre du Capitole de Toulouse. For more info and tickets clickhere.
When: November 9-10, at 20:00 Where: Place de la Comédie, 33000 Bordeaux
Delirium Party
Mille et Une Bieres, the very cool beer boutique invites you this Friday (November 9) to a Delirium party. The program includes a DJ , tattoo sessions and a happy hour on some of the beers. See more details here.
When: November 9, from 17:00 to midnight Where: 42 Rue Edmond Besse, 33300 Bordeaux,
Fit Attitude
The Fit Attitude is a sports event that takes place on Saturday every two weeks in Jardin Public. It’s a free fitness event and it’s open for all. The event will take place Saturday (November 10) at 11:00. See more details here.
When: November 10. 11:00 Where: place du Champ de Mars, 33000 Bordeaux,
Exhibitions
Exposition 3/1 – Espace Saint-Rémi
La Spirale association invites you to a collective exhibition by three local artists: Magalie Darsouze (visual artist), Benjamin Monteil (engraver) and Chris Pillot (painter). The exhibition will be presented at the beautiful Espace Saint-Rémi on November 7-17. The entrance is free. See more info here.
When: November 7-17 Where: 4 rue Jouannet à Bordeaux
Douro, l’air de la terre au bord des eaux – Exhibition
La Cité du Vin is currently hosting its second temporary exhibition of the “Vignoble invité” (invited vineyard). This exhibition, called Douro, l’air de la terre au bord des eaux, will take you to the heart of the wine region Haut-Douro in Portugal. As with the permanent exhibition in La Cité du Vin this too will be accompanied by an experience of sounds and senses. For more info click here.
When: October 5- January 6. 2019 Where:1, esplanade de Pontac, Bordeaux, 33300
Salva Me exhibition
“Salva me” is the new exhibition of the Bordelais graphic designer Aymeric Giraudel. The exhibition combines photography and graphics and plays with the human body to express its beauty. The exhibition will be presented at the Les Vivres de l’Art until November 16. For more info click here.
When: until November 16 Where: 4 rue Achard, 33300 BORDEAUX
A long weekend is ahead of us! I bet that those of you who haven’t left town for the weekend need some plans for these rainy days. This weekend we have plenty of indoor events to keep you warm like the Salon du Vintage, Art Fair, Salon du chocolat and more. For the sunny moments it’s the last weekend of the Foire des Plaisirs. Most of the events are taking place on Saturday and Sunday so if you need something for the next two days check out les Salon Vivons, the urban festival in Pessac and the Halloween event in Villandaut.
This is the list of things to do this long weekend in Bordeaux (November 1-4):
Fairs and Events
Vibrations Urbaines festival in Pessac
This is the 21st edition of the annual festival, Vibrations Urbaines, that is organized by the city of Pessac. The program is really cool and includes events like an international bmx contest, a skating contest, a hip hop dance battle, urban sports, workshops, street art exhibitions and more. The festival will take place from October 31 to November 4in the campus area in Pessac. See all the events on the website or facebook page of the festival.
When: October 31 – November 4 Where: Avenue du Colonel Robert Jacqui, 33600 Pessac
Salon du Vintage
The annual vintage salon will take place in Hangar 14 (Quai des Chartrons) on November 3-4. This chic event will gather more than 150 exhibitors with a great selection of accessories, furniture, vinyl records, classic cars, jukebox, paintings and more. For more details check the facebook page and the website of the event. Entry is 5€ and free for kids under 12 years old.
When: November 3-4 from 10:00 to 19:00 Where: 173 Quai des Chartrons, 33300 Bordeaux, France
Les Salons Vivons
Les Salons Vivons is a huge life style event that will take place in Parc des Expositions de Bordeaux from October 31 to November 4. The event includes 5 fairs:
Vivons Maison – all about designing your home with DIY workshops, forum of ideas, consultations and exhibitions of furniture, wood works, decorations, kitchens and more.
Vivons Auto – a vehicular exhibition (family, sport, city cars and more), a huge space dedicated to 2 wheels (bicycles, scooters, motorcycles and more) and a trial center where you can actually test the cars.
Vivons Camping Cars – more than 250 different camping cars will be presented with all the innovations in that domain.
Vivons 100% Sports – with three spaces dedicated to sports equipment, winter sports and to presenting all the different sport venues in Nouvelle-Aquitaine.
Vivons Art – a huge contemporary art fair with more than 3000 works of art – check out the next item for more details.
Entry is 5.5€, the same ticket is valid for all the other events of Salon Vivons. For more info check out the website of the event.
When: October 31 – November 4 Where: Parc des Expositions de Bordeaux, 33000
Salon Vivons Art
Vivons Art, the fair of contemporary art will take place in Parc des Expositions de Bordeaux from October 31 to November 4 and is part of the Salons Vivons event. This is a great event for art lovers and collectors with around 200 exhibitors (local, national and European), presenting more than 3000 works of art. Vivons Art aims to shake up the codes of the art world by giving the stage to a big variety of artists, allowing them to present their works to the wide public and to make art more accessible to all. For more info check out the website and the facebook page of the event. Entry is 5.5€, the same ticket is valid for all the other events of Salon Vivons taking place at the exhibition park.
When: October 31 – November 4 Where: Parc des Expositions de Bordeaux, 33000
The last weekend of the Foire aux Plaisirs
This weekend is your last chance to enjoy the fall edition of the traditional Bordelaise Fair that is taking place at Place des Quinconces (until November 4). It’s a perfect activity for kids and for those who are young in spirit as La Foire aux Plaisirs de Bordeaux has it all: a big wheel, roller coasters, ghost trains, bumper cars, donuts, crèpes, barbes à papa and more. The fair is open daily from 14:00, you are not required to pay any entry fee, only for some of the attractions. The last day of the fair (November 4) is a discount day with prices going down to 1 to 3 euros, depending on the attraction. See more info about the fair here.
Foire aux Plaisirs in Bordeaux
When: October 12 – November 4 Where:Place des Quinconces , 33000 Bordeaux
Foire de La Toussaint
The big fair of Toussaint will take place this weekend (November 1-4) on the banks of the Garonne river in La Reole. An ancient tradition in La Reole that brings together hundreds of local exhibitors and merchants. This is one of the biggest events in La Reole, fun for both kids and adults. For more info click here.
When: November 1-4 Where: Quais, 33190 LA REOLE
Salon du Chocolat in Gradignan
This is the 9th edition of the Salon du Chocolat, a great event for chocolate lovers, where about thirty exhibitors will present their products to the public. The event will take place this weekend (November 2-4) at the Salle du Solarium in Gradignan. Apart from chocolate stands the program includes a fashion show of dresses made of chocolate and workshops for kids. The Salon is organized by an association working with ill and disabled children and all funds raised will be used to carry out activities and treatment for these kids. A sweet event with a good cause! Entry is 4€ and free for kids under 10 years old. For more info click here.
When: November 2 from 14:00 and November 3-4, from 10:00 Where: Salle du Solarium, Chemin du Solarium, 33170 GRADIGNAN
Salon de Peinture in La Reole
This is the 62nd edition of the Painting Salon, taking place in l’Abbaye des Bénédictins of La reole from October 31 to November 11. Both professional and amateur painters were invited to present their works of oil paintings, aquarelle, inks, chalks, pastels, prints, acrylics and more.
When: October 31 to November 110 Where: Abbaye des Bénédictins, Esplanade Charles de Gaulle, 33190 LA REOLE
The Big Plants Sale
A big plants sale will take place this weekend (November 3-4) at the Promenade Sainte-Catherine. The prices are guaranteed to be quite low (from 2€ to 10€) so it’s a good opportunity to fill your house with winter plants. For more details follow the facebook page of the event.
When: November 3-4 Where: 25 rue Sainte-Catherine, 33000 Bordeaux
Corsica Week
The 5th edition of la Semaine Corse will take place at the Cantina restaurant on November 1-5. This is a great opportunity to discover the Corsican culture and cuisine with a varied program that includes tasting of the local food, meetings with Corsican producers and creators, Corsican music and exhibitions. One of the main events during the week is le Marché des producteurs & artisans Corse (The market of Corsican producers and craftsmen), that will take place this Saturday (November 3) at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Bacalan. See more info here.
When: November 1-5 Where:14 rue des Bahutiers 33000 Bordeaux, The market will take place at the Radisson Blu Hotel (63 Rue Lucien Faure, Bordeaux)
Halloween at Château de Villandraut
Chateau de Villandraut invites you to 4 days of Halloween celebrations, full of perfect activities and games for kids. The event will take place on October 30- November 2. Just to give you a taste of the long program of this event: a decoration workshop for kids (7-12 year olds), a murder party, Game of Crowns, masks creation workshop, scary story telling and much more. All the activities require prior registration by phone: 05.56.25.87.57 . The price is 3€ /day for most activities. For more info click here.
When: October 30 – November 2 Where: Rue Lafon Isore, 33730 Villandraut
Join a roller-blade ride group
If you are into Rollerblading or want to learn to rollerblade join the Airroller club. This weekend (like every first weekend of the month) there is a big family ride called la Rando des Familles where both kids and adults roll together. The ride will start from the Hotel de Ville at 14:15 (November 4). For more details click here.
When: November 4, 14:15 Where: Place Pey Berland, 33,000 Bordeaux
ART & CULTURE
Motorama – concert
The Russian Indie-rock band, Motorama will preform at the Rocher de Palmer in Cenon on November 1st. For more info and tickets click here.
When: November 1 at 20:30 Where: 1 rue Aristide Briand, Cenon 33150
Free museums Sunday
Like in most cities in France, the first Sunday of the month is a free museums day. You have a free entrance to all the public museums and to most of the exhibitions. Check out the full list of the museums in Bordeaux that you can visit for free this Sunday.
La Base sous-marine museum in Bordeaux
L’image 2018 – photography exhibition
An exhibition by 15 artists that focuses on the image of cars will be presented in Darwin this Sunday (November 4). The exhibition will include photography, illustrations and videos. The idea behind the exhibition is to reflect on the different interpretation each artist gave to the same subject. See more details here.
When: November 4 Where: 87 quai des Queyries, 33100 Bordeaux
New exhibition at the Base Sous Marine- Medio Acqua
It is no secret that the Base sous marine is one of my favorite places in Bordeaux so the fact that they’re about to open a new exhibition is making me very happy. The Medio Acqua exhibition includes installations by major French and intentional artists as well as a selection of video works by young emerging artists, recently graduated from the prestigious Fresnoy School. The main theme of the exhibition is inspired by the world of water, while the location and the structure of the base sous marine plays an important role in it.
When: October 26- January 6 Where: Boulevard Alfred Daney, 33300 Bordeaux
Clock, Les Horloges du Vivant – exhibition for kids
All living creatures have a certain rhythm to their mechanism that allows them to adapt to their environment. This fascinating expo will allow your kids to discover the rhythm of different animals and to understand their world a little better. Why does the koala sleep 20 hours a day? How fast are the wings of the hummingbird? Does a baby breathe like an adult? These are only some of the questions the exhibition will answer. The exhibition has been presented in Cap Sciences for a while now, but this is your last chance to take your kids to see it as the last day will be November 4. See more info here. The minimum age for this expo is 6 years old.
When: until November 4 Where: Hangar 20, Quai de Bacalan, 33300 Bordeaux
Bordeaux Mass Choir – concert
A concert of the Bordeaux Mass Choir will take place this Sunday (November 4) at the Casino Barriere. More than 50 singers together with the head of the choir, Fonegna Copie, will take the stage to perform gospel songs from their first album.
When: November 4, 17:00 Where: Rue du Cardinal Richaud, 33300 Bordeaux
November is all about the good life with gourmet and life style events like the S.O. Good and the Salon Vivons.
Art lovers won’t be bored this month, plenty of new street art and an art salon are on the list. If you’re hunting for furniture or home decoration, this is a great month with both the vintage salon and the big brocante of Bordeaux. In this list I included only the biggest events taking place in November, for more events coming up on weekends, check out my weekend lists, which I publish regularly on the site. There are plenty of things to do this month in and around Bordeaux, so let’s get started!
Vibrations Urbaines festival in Pessac
This is the 21st edition of the annual festival, Vibrations Urbaines, that is organized by the city of Pessac. The program is really cool and includes events like an international bmx contest, a skating contest, a hip hop dance battle, urban sports, workshops, street art exhibitions and more. The festival will take place from October 31 to November 4in the campus area in Pessac. See all the events on the website or facebook page of the festival.
When: October 31 – November 4 Where: Avenue du Colonel Robert Jacqui, 33600 Pessac
Salon du Vintage
The annual vintage salon will take place in Hangar 14 (Quai des Chartrons) on November 3-4. This chic event will gather more than 150 exhibitors with a great selection of accessories, furniture, vinyl records, classic cars, jukebox, paintings and more. For more details check the facebook page and the website of the event. Entry is 5€ and free for kids under 12 years old.
When: November 3-4 from 10:00 to 19:00 Where: 173 Quai des Chartrons, 33300 Bordeaux, France
Les Salons Vivons
Les Salons Vivons is a huge life style event that will take place in Parc des Expositions de Bordeaux from October 31 to November 4. The event includes 5 fairs:
Vivons Maison – all about designing your home with DIY workshops, forum of ideas, consultations and exhibitions of furniture, wood works, decoration, kitchens and more.
Vivons Auto – a vehicular exhibition (family, sport, city cars and more), a huge space dedicated to 2 wheels (bicycles, scooters, motorcycles and more) and a trial center where you can actually test the cars.
Vivons Camping Cars – more than 250 different camping cars will be presented with all the innovations in that domain.
Vivons 100% Sports – with three spaces dedicated to sports equipment, winter sports and to presenting all the different sport venues in Nouvelle-Aquitaine.
Vivons Art – a huge contemporary art fair with more than 3000 works of art – check out the next item for more details.
Entry is 5.5€, the same ticket is valid for all the other events of Salon Vivons. For more info check out the website of the event.
When: October 31 – November 4 Where: Parc des Expositions de Bordeaux, 33000
Salon Vivons Art
Vivons Art, the fair of contemporary art will take place in Parc des Expositions de Bordeaux from October 31 to November 4 and is part of the Salons Vivons event. This is a great event for art lovers and collectors with around 200 exhibitors (local, national and European), presenting more than 3000 work of arts. Vivons Art aims to shake up the codes of the art world by giving the stage to a big variety of artists, allowing them to present their works to the wide public and to make art more accessible to all. For more info check out the website and the facebook page of the event. Entry is 5.5€, the same ticket is valid for all the other events of Salon Vivons taking place at the exhibition park.
When: October 31 – November 4 Where: Parc des Expositions de Bordeaux, 33000
Salon Ob’Art
Le salon Ob’Art (Objets de créateur) is a creators fair with a rich pedagogic program of activities, workshops and demonstrations. The aim of the event is to create a dialog between artists, craftsmen and the wide public in order to transfer their know-how and to make the young generation discover a variety of professional vocations. The event will be dedicated to the philosophy and craftsmanship of the Japaneses culture. Le Salon Ob’Art will take place in Hangar 14 (Quai des Chartrons) on November 9-11. Entry is free for kids under 18 years old and 6€ for adults (free on the first day). For more info check out the website of the event.
When: November 9-11 Where: 173 Quai des Chartrons, 33300 Bordeaux
Piano Festival
This is the 9th edition of the Festival L’esprit du Piano that will take place at the Auditorium of the Opera of Bordeaux on November 9-26. This magnificent festival hosts some important pianists like Chick Corea, Yefim Bronfman, Deszo Ranki and Bertrand Chamayou and others, some of whom will collaborate with the National Orchestra of Bordeaux and the choir of the Opera of Bordeaux. One of the biggest names to take the stage of the Auditorium is the Jazz legend, Abdullah Ibrahim. See the program of the festival here and info about the tickets here.
When: November 9-26 Where: Grand Théâtre, Place de la Comédie – 33 000 Bordeaux
Halles de Bacalan – 1 year anniversary
Halles de Bacalan invites you to celebrate their first anniversary with a super gourmand event on the weekend of November 9-11. This fun market is one of the best places for drinks with friends, especially on rainy weekends, so this event is guaranteed to be good. For more info check out the facebook page of the event.
When: November 9-11 Where: 10 esplanade de pontac, 33300 Bordeaux,
Jazz Festival in Caudéran
The second edition of the Jazz festival of Caudéran will take place on November 8-10. Three days with 6 concerts: Robin & the Woods, IepXtet- création musicale de Sébastien Iep Arruti, Lorenzo Naccarato trio, Itamar Borochov quartet, Saxtape and Nicolas Folmer Horny Tonky experience. For more info about prices and the full program click here.
When: November 8-11 Where: La Pergola Theater, Rue Fernand Cazères, 33200 Bordeaux
Centenaire de l’armistice de la 1ère Guerre Mondiale – Exhibition
This year is the centenary of the armistice of the First World War and as part of the commemoration the city will present an exhibition of different objects, posters and archives related to the war. The exhibition will be presented at the Town Hall in Floriac between November 6 and November 17 and in Espace Lucie Aubrac on November 11. For more info click here.
When: November 6-17 Where: 6 avenue Pasteur BP 110, 33270 Floirac
Cirque du Soleil
The magnificent Cirque du Soleil are coming to Bordeaux with the show, Ovo, a tale about insects with original music and beautiful new costumes. The Cirque will give six shows on November 14-18 at the Arkea Arena in Floriac. For tickets click here and for more info about the show here.
When: November 14-18 Where: Arkéa Arena, 48-50 Avenue Jean Alfonséa, 33270 Floirac.
S.O. Good Festival
This is one of the biggest events to take place during the fall in Bordeaux. The S.O Good is a gastronomic happening that aims to highlight the talent found in the Nouvelle Aqutaine gastronomic scene and to celebrate local products. The event will take place at Hangar 14 (Quai des Chartrons) on November 16-18. The program of the festival includes more than 100 local producers hosted by the Hangar, many chef workshops in the city center, a night feast on Saturday and a farmers’ brunch on Sunday. This festival is not only about France, the opening event in Palais de la Bourse will be dedicated to Italian cuisine. This is one of the most important culinary events in the region and many Michelin stars chefs are taking part in it. The price of the festival pass is 12€ and 10€ on pre-sale. For tickets and the full program click here.
When: November 16-18 Where: 173 Quai des Chartrons, 33300 Bordeaux, France
Lettres du monde
The literature festival, Lettres du monde, will take place on November 16-25 with lectures and debates in different venues across Bordeaux Metropole. Events will take place in libraries, schools, book stores, cinemas and others.
You can enjoy this festival even if you don’t speak French as most of the writers participating in the lectures are coming from all over the world, from Yemen to Syria, Spain and Haiti. For the full program click here and for more details here.
When: November 16-25 Where: Different places in Bordeaux – check the program
Kaléidoscope – Street art exhibition
One of my favorite art venues in Bordeaux, l’Institut Culturel Bernard Magrez, is about to open a new art exhibition this month. The Kaléidoscope exhibition is all about feminine art, hosting nine female street artists to present their works in a genre that is usually considered more masculine. The opening of the expo will take place on November 13 at 18:30. The exhibition will be presented until February 17. For more info click here and here
When: November 12- February 17 Where: 16 rue de Tivoli, 33000 Bordeaux
Bassin Geek Festival
If you enjoyed the Bordeaux Geek Festival a few months ago, it’s time for the winter edition with the Bassin Geek Festival. The program includes all the things the geek community loves: comics, sci-fi, web culture, video games, parallel worlds, creative industries and more. The festival will take place at the Parc des Expositions de La Teste De Buch on November 17-18. Check out the full program and all the details here and ticket prices here.
When: November 17-18 Where: 940 Avenue de l’Europe. 33260 La Teste-de-Buch
International History films festival
The theme of the 29th edition of the Festival international du film d’histoire of Pessac is “1918-1939 La drôle de paix” (the funny peace) and it will take place on November 19-26. The rich program of the festival includes debates and lectures with several historians as guests and screenings of more than a 100 movies, from classics to works of heritage, rare or unpublished films, previews, fiction and documentaries. For more info and the full program click here and for ticket prices click here.
When: November 19-26 Where: several venues in Pessac center – check out the end of the program
Festival Zéro Déchets Zéro Gaspi (ZZ)
Festival ZZ is a an event that aims to make you reflect on the changes you can make in your life to reduce your waste to the minimum level. Although the topic is serious, the event has a very fun and festive atmosphere: workshops, games, concerts, exhibitions, a fashion show, drones demonstrations, cooking competitions and more. This event is both fun and important for kids and adults. Festival ZZ will take place at at Hangar 14 (Quai des Chartrons) on November 23-24.
When: November 23-24 Where: 173 Quai des Chartrons, 33300 Bordeaux, France
les Journées Gourmandes Loupiac & Foie Gras
In the last twenty years Loupiac has been hosting the Loupiac & Foie Gras event that allows people to get familiar with the sweet wines of Loupaic and meet the farmers of the department and taste their gourmet production. On the 21st edition of the festival, that will take place on November 24-25, 18 chateaux will open their door to the public and will offer plenty of activities such as workshops, guided tours, tastings, exhibitions and more. On Saturday evening a big gourmet cocktail event will be hosted by two chefs, Christophe Girardot (a Michelin star chef) and Solenn Lemonnier,
for reservations contact: 0556626271/ infos@vins-loupiac.com . For more details about the festival click here and here.
When: November 24-25 Where: Different chateaux in Loupiac-De-Cadillac
Brocante des Quinconces
The big brocante of Bordeaux is hosted twice a year at place des Quinconces with 200 antique dealers, horticulturists, restaurants and craftsmen. This fall edition of the brocante will take place from November 23 to December 9. Although it’s quite upscale, you can find some fine antiques and vintage pieces at a bargain price. For more info and the list of exhibitors check out the website of the event.
When: November 23- December 9 Where: Place des Quinconces
Les Contes d’Hoffmann Ballet
The Ballet and Orchestra of the National Opera of Russia will arrive to Bordeaux on November 29 to perform the magnificent ballet of The Tales of Hoffmann. The 3 act ballet will take place at the Arkéa Arena in Floriac. For tickets and more details click here.
When: November 29, at 18:30 Where: Arkéa Arena, 48-50 Avenue Jean Alfonséa, 33270 Floirac.
Jazz weekends at the Caillou
This is the last month of the Fall program at the Caillou Jazz bar in Jardin Botanique and they have already published a great list of musicians taking the stage in November. The program is varied and includes many genres like swing, rock, folk, jazz, Latin and more. See the full program here. For more details click here.
When: from Tuesday to Sunday – until November 30 Where: Le Caillou du Jardin Botanique, Esplanade Linné, 33000 BORDEAUX
Hope you enjoyed the list! Now don’t be shy, share it with your friends!
Do you have other events to add to the list? Please share them in the comments so all of us can enjoy
Get your cameras ready as this weekend the quais of Bordeaux are going to be fun and creepy with the zombie walk of Bordeaux. This is definitely not the only event to mark the Halloween season: Halloween in a beautiful chateau, a mask workshop in Darwin and a zombie after party are only part of the events celebrating this great holiday. If you want to know what’s happening in Bordeaux on October 31, check out my post – “Where to celebrate Halloween in Bordeaux“. Apart from that we have a wine feast and a brocante in Chartrons, a night market in Bacalan, a flamenco show, a concert in the Saint Michel Basilica and plenty of exhibitions. Also, if you still have no idea what to do with your kids next week, check out my post on 10 great things to do with kids on school break.
This is the list of things to do this weekend in Bordeaux (October 26-28):
Zombie walk de Bordeaux
The Zombie Walk of Bordeaux is probably one of the best ways to get into the Halloween spirit. The walk will take place on October 27 and will have the theme of “White walkers” , which is a nice surprise for Game of Thrones fans (however all zombie costumes are welcome). The event will start at 12:00 at l’Espace du Marché des Quais (The walk will leave from the skate park on the quai). The event is free but requires registration on the facebook page of the event or by emailing zombiewalk.bordeaux@gmail.com.
When: October 27, at 12:00 Where: Espace du Marché des Quais, Bordeaux
Zombie party
The walking zombies will need a party to celebrate this creepy get together! The Open Air electronic Zombie party will take place the same day (October 27) starting 18:00 in the Bacalan district. The entrance to the party is free to disguised zombies and 2 euros for the rest. For more info click here.
When: October 27, at 18:00 Where: 30 rue Francis Garnier, 33300 Bordeaux
Fête du Vin nouveau & de la brocante
This weekend (October 27-28) the Chartrons neighborhood invites you to celebrate the Autumn with a festival of new wine and a brocante. During these two days, the main street, rue Notre-Dame , will be transformed into a brocante with wine stands and roasted chestnuts. Come and spend a festive weekend on one of the most interesting streets in Bordeaux.
When: October 27-29 Where: Rue notre dame, 33000 Bordeaux
Foire aux Plaisirs
This is the fall edition of the traditional Bordelaise Fair that is taking place at Place des Quinconces from October 12 to November 4. It’s a perfect activity for kids and for those who are young in spirit as La Foire aux Plaisirs de Bordeaux has it all: a big wheel, roller coasters, ghost trains, bumper cars, donuts, crèpes, barbes à papa and more. The fair is open daily from 14:00, you are not required to pay any entry fee, only for some of the attractions. See more info about the fair here.
When: October 12 – November 4 Where:Place des Quinconces , 33000 Bordeaux
Noche Del Pintxo
Noche del Pintxo is a fun event taking place in Halles de Bacalan every last Friday of the month. As the name indicates, this event is all about Pintxos, with ingredients coming solely from the market. This Friday (October 26) between 18:30 and 22:30 you’ll taste Pintxos and vote on the Pintxo of the month. One of the most fun things about these evenings are the prices: Pintxo = 2€, glass of wine = 2€. For more info check out the website of the market or the facebook page of the event.
When: October 26, starting 18:30- 22:30 Where: 10 Esplanade de Pontac, 33300 Bordeaux,
Start celebrating Halloween
We are warming up towards Halloween with some events and activities taking place this weekend, just a few days before the official celebrations next week. Check out my post about ” Where to celebrate Halloween in Bordeaux” to see what else is on next week.
Château de Vayres
Chateau de Vayres invites you to their 8th edition of their Halloween weekend on October 27-28 with all the Halloween classics: witches, phantoms and werewolves. The two days event will be accompanied by exceptional Halloween decorations and plenty of activities and will finish with a fireworks show. The event is free for kids under 4 yo, 10 € for kids between 5 and 12 years old and 12,50 € for those older than 12.For more details click here.
When: October 27 from 14:00 to 20:00 and October 28 from 13:00 to 19:30. Where: 63 Avenue de Libourne, 33870 Vayres
Halloween in Arcachon
The city of Arcachon invites you this Saturday to celebrate Halloween with a great variety of activities. Les Maisons de Quartier will host a special make up activity, the market hosts a free decoration workshop, in the city center kids can play trick or treat and the Mauresque park will host everybody for fun games and activities. For more details click here.
When: October 27 Where: The center of Arcachon
Make your own mask in Darwin
If your kids still don’t have their Halloween costumes they can learn how to make their own in Darwin. A very fun and creative workshop will take place in Darwin on October 28, where your kids could learn how to make their own masks using a serigraph printing technique. The activity is adapted to kids over 5 years old. The price of the workshop is 15€. For more info click here.
When: October 28 from 11:00 Where: 87 quai des Queyries, 33100 Bordeaux
Halloween in Ferme Exotique
la Ferme Exotique in Cadaujac invites you to celebrate Halloween with the animals of the farm during the two weeks of school break from October 20 to November 4. In the program: games, a pumpkin competition, Halloween make up and a phantom train. For more info click here.
When: October 20- November 31 Where: Domaine de la Roussie, 1932 Chemin du Port de l’Esquillot, 33140 Cadaujac
Discover the Area
Visit the Bourgailh park in Pessac
Before it gets too cold and rainy it’s time to discover the beautiful spots of nature in the Bordeaux area. This weekend I encourage you to discover one of the most beautiful and surprising parks around Bordeaux, the Foret du Bourgailh in Pessac. This is not merely a nice park for a walk it’s a universe of plants, animals and beautiful design. The area of the Foret du Bourgailh includes a 2.6 km walking trail, the largest tropical greenhouse in the region, sports facilities, a skate park, an amphitheater, a zoo and one of the most beautiful playgrounds you have ever seen, which for me is the highlight of this park.
A visit to a Saffron Farm
La safranière du Cabanon in Béguey (close to Cadillac) is a farm producing all the saffron of the Sud Gironde area. This Saturday (October 27) you get to visit the place, accompanied by Chantal et Thierry who run the farm. Besides a guided visit of the Safranière, you can also taste all the products produced at the place. For more details and tickets click here.
When: October 27, Where: Chemin profond, 33410 BEGUEY
ART & CULTURE
NRITYA – Flamenco show
The Caramelita Flamenco Company is finishing their second creative residency session at the Cuvier in Artigues-pres-Bordeaux and will be presenting part of their new production, “NRITYA”, on Friday, October 26 at 20h30.
NRITYA (“emotion and storytelling created by movement” in Hindi) is a very personal project for flamenco dancer Deborah “La Caramelita”. It is the story of a first generation Canadian exploring her Indian background through flamenco dance. Unlike her first show, “Penas y Alegrías“, anchored in the traditional flamenco style, this new creation is strongly tinged with her cultural heritage. Through her dance and supported by the musicians who accompany her, she offers an initiatory journey and a search for parallels between her Indian roots and flamenco. There will be a Q&A session with the audience after the show. The price is 6€. For more info click here.
When: October 26,at 20:30 Where: Le Cuvier – Avenue de l’Île de France, 33370 Artigues-près-Bordeaux
New exhibition at the Base Sous Marine- Medio Acqua
It is no secret that the Base sous marine is one of my favorite places in Bordeaux so the fact that they’re about to open a new exhibition is making me very happy. The Medio Acqua exhibition includes installations by major French and intentional artists as well as a selection of video works by young emerging artists, recently graduated from the prestigious Fresnoy School. The main theme of the exhibition is inspired by the world of water, while the location and the structure of the base sous marine plays an important role in it.
When: October 26- January 6 Where: Boulevard Alfred Daney, 33300 Bordeaux
First exhibition at the Musee de la Mer et de la Marine
The first exhibition of La Musee de la Mer et de la Marine has been finally presented this month. Although the museum itself is not due to open soon, it has decided to open an exposition room where a new photography expo will be presented between October 1st and April 30, 2019. The “Sous les mers, au-delà de l’image” exhibition consists of more than 100 photographs by Paul Nicklen and David Doubilet, two National Géographic photographers. Check more info on the site of the museum.
When: October 1 – April 30, 2019 Where:89 rue des étrangers, 33300 BORDEAUX
Street art exhibition in the Vibrations Urbaines Festival
Vibrations Urbaines is an annual urban festival organized by the city of Pessac, which includes exhibitions, a hip hop battle, urban sports, skating and more. As part of the festival, a street art exhibition is presented at the Médiathèque Jacques Ellul in Pessac (until November 4). The 15 works of art were selected in a national urban art competition. You can be a part of the competition and vote for the best artist. The exhibition is open from Tuesday to Friday (between 13:30 to 18:30) and Saturday (10:00 to 18:00). For more info click here.
When: October 17- November 4 Where:Avenue du Colonel Robert Jacqui, 33600 Pessac
Clock, Les Horloges du Vivant – exhibition for kids
All living creatures have a certain rhythm to their mechanism that allows them to adapt to their environment. This fascinating expo will allow your kids to discover the rhythm of different animals and to understand their world a little better. Why does the koala sleep 20 hours a day? How fast are the wings of the hummingbird? Does a baby breathe like an adult? These are only some of the questions the exhibition will answer. The exhibition has been presented in Cap Sciences for a while now, but this is your last chance to take your kids to see it as the last day will be November 4. See more info here. The minimum age for this expo is 6 years old.
When: until November 4 Where: Hangar 20, Quai de Bacalan, 33300 Bordeaux
Eclair Circus celebrates its 30 anniversary
To celebrates its 30th anniversary Le Cirque Eclair invites you to a cool party full of concerts and fun! The party will take place this Saturday (October 27) and the lineup will include CIE MOHEIN (Eastern European music), Le Roi Rogomme (Punk). For more info click here.
When: October 27, starting 19:30 Where:65 Quai de Brazza, 33100 Bordeaux, 33100 Bordeaux
An organ and accordion concert in Basilique Saint Michel
Christophe d’Alessandro (Organ) and Olivier Innocenti (Accordion) will perform at the Basilique Saint Michel this Sunday (October 28) at 17:00. Ticket price is 15€ and free for kids under 12 years old. For more info click here.
When: October 28, at 17:00 Where: Basilique Saint Michel, 33000 Bordeaux
