I absolutely love street art and any city that makes the effort to complement its historic landscape with a modern expression of art is buying a fast ticket to my “go-to” list. That’s why Angoulême, which is located in the Charente department, about 1.5 hours drive from Bordeaux (or 35 minutes by train) has been on my mind for quite a while now. Angoulême is widely known as the comics and street art capital of France and is globally renowned for its Internation Comics festival hosting more than 200,000 people every year. Although I knew that I’m expected to see some beautiful murals in Angoulême, the creativity of this city took me by surprise the minute I entered the historic part of the city. Angoulême’s admiration for comics was expressed in every detail, from colorful post boxes to painted recycling bins and statues of famous comics characters. Visiting Angoulême is a little bit like playing treasure hunt for art lovers, there’s something to find on every street corner.
Now, don’t get me wrong here, this is by far not the only reason to visit Angoulême. It’s a beautiful historic city, surrounded by ancient ramparts, abundant with elegant monuments, and generally a vivid place with an impressive number of bars and restaurants. My article about all the things you can do in Angouleme is in the making but in this article, I want to focus on what attracted me to this city, which is its street art. My goal is to make you experience this city as if we were in an open museum of comics and street art. Having said that, if you really love comics don’t miss la Cité Internationale de la Bande Dessinée et de l’Image, the comics museums of Angoulême.
There are 25 huge murals painted on different buildings spread around Angoulême. If you can, pass by the tourist office (located in the Hotel de Ville), and grab a map indicating all of these murals. However, you should know that some of them are located quite far from the city center and require a long walk to get there. So if you are limited in time or just want to save your energy for the more interesting parts of the city, I made a map of my favorite murals and other street art that I really loved when strolling the city. In most of the locations on the map, I added the name of the work and the artist’s name and in some, I also added a photo and a link for more info about this work (in French).
I should mention also that there’s an app that can help you navigate around the murals in the city. I didn’t try it myself, but if you want to give it a try, these are the links, Google Play, App Store.
My three favorite murals in Angoulême
I should start by saying that all the murals in Angouleme are stunning but there are several that I particularly loved and I think you should see.
La Fille des Remparts – Max Cabannes
This one is probably the most famous mural in Angouleme and one of the best spots for taking photos and selfies in the city 🙂 In this Mural, Max Cabann imitates the atmosphere of the old city with its ramparts and old buildings. It almost feels like a continuation of the street your standing on. You can find it just next to the market on 6 Boulevard Pasteur.
This beautiful mural is located in a residential neighborhood slightly outside of the city center, but it’s so stunning it’s worth the walk. François Boucq is a French comics artist known for its books about Jérôme Moucherot, an insurance salesman, who is dressed in a leopard suit. The mural can be found at: Rue du Dr Duroselle above the parking entrance.
L’Archiviste – François Schuiten
L’Archiviste by François Schuiten is one of the most special artworks on the streets of Angoulême – one million holes on a stainless steel plate over a huge building facade. The building is located on 24 Avenue Gambetta.
The Comics Festival
If you can choose when to visit Angouleme, the best time would be in January when the city hosts its famous Comics Festival. The Angoulême International Comics Festival is the third biggest comics festival in the world, hosting more than 200,000 visitors every year.
Discover more art when strolling Angoulême
The murals of Angoulême display the works of the most famous comics artists in France. However, street art and comics are such an important part of the modern identity of this city that the murals are only a fraction of the art you can find in Angoulême. I spent hours just walking and absorbing the colors, the cute characters painted on the shatters, and unusual statues in the garden below the ramparts. Here are some of my favorite discoveries from this beautiful city. I count on you to find many more when you visit fascinating Angoulême 🙂
You can also get plenty of tips on things to do in the Southwest of France via lost in Bordeaux’s social media accounts and email list, check them out here:
We have a great weekend full of events and this time your Sunday is going to be especially busy. We have some big events like the Chocolate fair and the Jumping International de Bordeaux but also plenty of nice smaller events for kids and adults. Don’t miss two beautiful exhibitions I recommend for this weekend and if you’re in a traveling mood, don’t miss the big Playmobile in Mios. Here’s the list of things to do this weekend in Bordeaux (February 8-10).
Jumping international de Bordeaux
Jumping International de Bordeaux is a big riding equestrian event that includes competitions, spectacles and a fun fair. The event takes place on 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 the 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
Chocolate Festival in Jardin Botanique
This tasty 10 days fair, organized by Fédération Autonome des Métiers Gourmands, will take place at the Jardin Botanique on February 8-17. This year the theme is a vegetable garden and you’ll discover the beautiful sculptures made by the chocolatiers for the national chocolate competition of Bordeaux. Some of the best Bordeaux chocolatiers will present and sell their works at the fair. For the full program click here.
A Playmobil exhibition will take place this Saturday (February 9) in Mios. The event will include more than 50 exhibitors from all over the Bassin d’Arcachon presenting more than 43,000 Playmobil figures. The exhibition will include 17 dioramas of different themes such as Game of Thrones, Astérix and Star Wars. The program also includes nice activities for the little ones. For more info click here.
When: February 9 / Where: Salle polyvalente Marc Daurys, Place Dominique Mayonnade, 33380 Mios
Green Market au Château des Tours, Bouscat
A green market will take place this Saturday (February 9) in Château des Tours in le Bouscat. The market will host local producers of organic fruit and vegetables, patisserie, natural cosmetics and more. Check out the full list of merchants here. The entry is free.
When: February 9, from 10:30 / Where: 246 Avenue de la Libération Charles de Gaulle, 33110 Le Bouscat
Grande fête enfantine à Pessac
La grande fête Enfantine is coming back this Sunday (February 10) with plenty of activities for kids. The program includes music, snacks, makeup sessions and many other surprises. The event will take place at Parc Cazalet in Pessac. For more details click here.
When: February 10, 14:00- 18:00 / Where: Parc Cazalet, Avenue de Beutre, 33610 Pessac, France
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
Troc party vêtements
As part of the “not buy anything new” challenge, the Maison Ecocitoyenne of Bordeaux organizes this Sunday (February 10) a clothes party. You can come and exchange, buy or sell second-hand clothes. The event is free but requires prior registration. Click here for more info and registration.
When: February 10, 14:00- 17:00 / Where: Maison écocitoyenne de Bordeaux, Quai Richelieu, 33000 Bordeaux
Last chance to visit the Kaléidoscope exhibition
You have only two weeks 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. This is one of the most beautiful exhibitions presented in Bordeaux these days so go see it! The exhibition will be presented until February 24. For more info click here and here.
Institut Bernard Magrez
When: Until February 17/ Where: 16 rue de Tivoli, 33000 Bordeaux, France
Bengal stream – Exhibition
Bengal Stream is a beautiful architecture exhibition presented at the Erc en Rêve, the architecture center of CAPC (the contemporary art museum of Bordeaux). The exhibition presents pictures and models of tens of projects in Bangladesh, realized by emerging architects. Most projects had very little budget to work with, but with great imagination and the understanding of the local materials and weather conditions the final results are incredible. This project is a testimony to the extraordinary architecture of this country. For more info click here.
When: Until March 3 / Where:galerieblanche, arc en rêve, 7 rue Ferrère, 33000 BORDEAUX
Festival Pouce Bordeaux
Pouce is the annual kids’ dance festival taking place around Bordeaux metropole. During the festival, 8 dance shows will take place in Bordeaux, Pessac, Floriac, Bruges and other towns around the metropole. The program also includes a dance workshop for parents and kids and professional dancers day on February 13. Check out the full program here.
When: February 6-16 / Where: different locations around Bordeaux (check out the program)
Villenave Trail Urbain
This Saturday a sportive event for kids will take place in Villenave d’ornon. Villenave Trail Urbain includes two hiking tracks for kids from 6 to 14 years old. The tracks will start from Espace D’Ornon and will go through several chateaux in the area. For more details and registration click here.
When: February 9, 14:30 – 20:00 / Where: 147, route de Léognan 33140 Villenave d’ornon, 33140 Villenave-d’Ornon
Surfrider clean up in Ambés
This Saturday (February 9) the Surfrider Gironde association is organizing a large clean up on the banks of the rivers in Ambés. This is a very nice and educative activity to do with the kids. Check out the program for the day here.
When: February 9, at 10:30 / Where: Route du Burck, Ambés – Bus stop “Le Marquis”
Trial Indoor International de Bordeaux
This is a great show for motorbike and action lovers. Trial Indoor International de Bordeaux will take the stage of Arkéa Arena this Saturday (February 9). The show will include plenty of acrobatic stunts and amazing urban decoration. For tickets and more details click here.
When: February 9, 20:30 / Where: Arkéa Arena, 48-50 avenue Jean Alfonséa, 33270 FLOIRAC
Recital at the Opera of Bordeaux
The American Opera singer and Soprano, Renée Fleming, will take the stage of the Opera of Bordeaux this Sunday (February 10). She will be accompanied by the German pianist Hartmut Höl. For more details and tickets click here.
When: February 10, 20:00 / Where: Grand Théâtre de Bordeaux, place de la Comédie, 33000 BORDEAUX
Underground electronic music
Les Vivres de l’Art is hosting a long line up of underground electronic music concerts every weekend until February 15. Three nights full of concerts will take place this weekend (February 8-10). The concerts include some big names from the international underground scene. Check out the full program here.
When: February 1-15 / Where: 4 rue Achard, 33300 Bordeaux, France
That’s all for this weekend! I leave you with a few of the recent articles that you might find interesting:
As usual, if you want to plan ahead check out my winter edition of things to do in Bordeaux. And if you’re not on my email list yet, join me and get more tips about Bordeaux – subscribe here!
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
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
This weekend the European Patrimony days will take place and some of you might take this opportunity to discover the city through its beautiful buildings and institutions. If you are not into that, there are still plenty of events taking place this weekend in and around Bordeaux. A street art festival, an open air electronic music party, swing dancing on the streets, a biking tour and much more.
Here is the list of things to do this weekend in and around Bordeaux:
Journées Européennes du Patrimoine
The European Patrimony days are a great opportunity to discover some of the most beautiful and interesting places in Bordeaux that are usually hidden from the public. During the weekend of September 15-16 many public and private buildings will open their doors to the and allow you a taste of the city’s history. Some of the most interesting places to visit during the weekend are: the Opera of Bordeaux, Grosse Cloche, Hôtel de Nairac, Tribunal de grande instance de Bordeaux and many more. If you haven’t planned anything yet and want to avoid standing in line, check out my post about the 10 places to visit on Journées Européennes du Patrimoine.
You can see the full list of places open to visits here.
When: September 15-16 Where: Many places across the city, check out the program above.
Shake Well Festival
Shake Well Festival is an international graffiti festival taking place in the university campus of Pessac on September 14-16. This is a free event that gathers more than one hundred graffiti artists and gives them a huge space of 2000 m2 to express themselves during the weekend of the festival. The event will be accompanied by a lineup of different electronic music artists taking the scene from 10:00 to 21:00. For more info check out the website of the festival.
When: September 14-16 Where: Domaine Universitaire, BORDEAUX MONTAIGNE, 19 esplanade des Antilles, 33607 Pessac
Swing on the streets
Swing In Kiosque is a series of improvised dance events that are taking place in Jardin Public two times a month. This weekend the event will take place on September 16. Take a look at the full program of events on their facebook page.
When: September 16 at 15:00 Where: Jardin Public, 33000 Bordeaux
Festival L’Effet Papillon
The third edition of the Effet Paillon Festival will take place in Martignas-sur-jalle on September 14-15. The festive weekend will be packed with music, street art shows, a designers market, workshops and an outdoor food area. For more details and the lineup click here, to purchase tickets click here.
When: September 14-15 Where: 14 avenue de Verdun, 33127 Martignas-Sur-Jalle
Last Chance to see the street art expo in Base Sous Marine
Legendes Urbaines, the beautiful street art exhibition presented at the Base Sous Marine during the last 2 months is coming to an end on September 16 so this is your last chance to go and see it. The exhibition, hosting more than 50 street artists, follows the evolution of street art from the 80’s until today and presents different art styles from graffiti, to video art, vitrage paintings, works on wood, fabric and much more. The entrance to the Base Sous Marine will be free on the weekend of September 15-16.
For more details check out the facebook page of la Base Sous-marine.
When: until September 16 Where: La Base Sous Marine, Boulevard Alfred Daney, 33300 Bordeaux
The Pavillon d’été of L’Orangeade
The summer pavilion on le Quai Deschamps on the right bank of the Garonne is a great way to enjoy your evenings during the hot Bordelaise summer days. The pavilion, organized by the Orangeade association, is hosting free music and gastronomy events every Friday and Saturday until September 22. Take a look at the program for this Friday (Sep 14) and for this Saturday (Sep 15).
When: September 7-8, starting 6pm Where:Quai Deschamps, 33100 Bordeaux
Relache Festival
A free concert of JJ. Thames and BearCatz will take place this Friday at the Place Fernand Lafargue as part of the Relache festival. The free music festival is promoting local music, and is taking place in different locations during the summer months. For more info click here.
When: September 14 starting 18:00 Where: Place Fernand Lafargue, 33000 Bordeaux,
Open Air Festival
Bordeaux Open Air is a series of free summer electronic music events, all set in different locations and with a great city vibe to them. The next event will take place on September 16 in Jardin Public and will be dedicated to Djs from New Delhi .
When: September 16, 14:00 Where: Jardin Public, place du Champ de Mars, 33000 Bordeaux
La Guinguette des Enfants
One of the best summer places in Bordeaux la Guinguette Chez Alriq dedicate this Saturday to families with kids. Plenty of games, workshops and a picnics will take place on the bank of the Garonne. For more info click here, the price is 5€ for adults.
When: September 15, 11:00 to 17:00 Where: ZA Quai des Queyries, Port Bastide, 33100 Bordeaux
The big scooter race
The Nire Laguna Thomas association organised a wonderful event to help raise funds for research on pediatric cancer.
A kids scooter race will take place this Saturday on the Quai of Bordeaux, starting from la Maison Eco-citoyenne. More than 300 kids, ages 5 to 10 will take place in the event. If you want your kids to participate in the race, register here.
When: September 15 10:30 to 16:30 Where: la Maison Eco-citoyenne , 33000 Bordeaux
Summer Rock in Bouliac
This Saturday (September 15) a fun event will take place in Bouliac called “Bouliac on the Rock”. The program includes an American cars exhibition, a rock concert, a raffle, vinyl discs and food stands. The festival is free, see more info here.
When: September 15, starting 11:00 Where: Parking du stade, Bouliac,
Exhibition and a painting atelier for kids in Le Garage Moderne
An exhibition of three painters will take place on September 13-25in one of the most unique places in the north of Bordeaux, Le Garage Moderne. This Saturday (September 15), the Garage Moderne will also hold a painting workshop for kids so you can enjoy some art while your kids are busy creating one.
When: September 15, 14:00- 18:00. The exhibition will be presented September 13-25. Where: 1 Rue des Étrangers, 33300 Bordeaux
Vélotour Bordeaux
Did you ever ride a bike in a museum or a hotel? Discover Bordeaux by bike through places where usually bicycles are not allowed: museums, sport centers, cultural and historic places and more. More than ten places have opened their doors for this unusual experience. The tour will take place this Saturday (September 16) and will start at the Maison Écocitoyenne Bordeaux. For tickets click here and for more info about the event click here.
When: September 16 Where: Quai Richelieu, 33000 Bordeaux
Open doors in Climb Up
Climb Up Bordeaux will hold an open door weekend (September 15-16) to allow you discover one of the newest climbing centers in Bordeaux. For details check out the website and the facebook page of the event.
When: September 15-16 (9:00- 18:00) Where:17 Avenue Pythagore, 33700 Mérignac
Vegan Market in the Bastide Neighborhood
A vegan and vegetarian market will take place this Saturday (September 15) at la Place Stalingrad. The stands will include food, drinks, oils, accessories, flowers and different objects, all with the agenda to promote a vegan and vegetarian lifestyle. For more info click here.
When: September 15, 10:00- 18:00 Where: Place Stalingrad, 33100 Bordeaux
Monuments of Cinema
The Monuments of Cinema festival allows you to see great movies at remarkable monuments in the Gironde. During the whole week (September 8-15) movies such as Lumière, l’aventure continue, Monty Python and Everybody wants some! will be screened in places like Château de Cadillac, Parc Chavat in Podensac and the Sauve-Majeure Abbey. See the full program here.
When: September 8-15 Where: Different locations in Gironde, check out the program
The Bordelaise summer is usually quite chill and laid back, filled with open air concerts and summer events on the banks of the Garonne. In contrast, September is a more active month, with plenty of festivals and gastronomy events.
This is the perfect list for those of you looking to go out and explore Bordeaux’s surroundings as it includes many events taking place just a few minutes ride from the city’s center.
This September we have: The Climax festival in Darwin, the Marathon of Medoc, a street art festival in Pessac, a beer festival and much more. So tie up your shoe laces and let’s go!
Here are the best things to do this month in and around Bordeaux:
Climax Festival
The Climax festival taking place in Darwin focuses on environmental issues and climate change. Conferences and debates will take place throughout the four day festival (September 6-9) and will be accompanied by art and cultural events. Every night, a rich lineup of electronic music will make the festival more attractive and dynamic. This is one of the biggest festivals in the center of Bordeaux and its location only adds to the attractiveness of the event. Take a look at the full program on the site of the festival, for tickets click here.
When: September 6-9 Where: CASERNE DARWIN (87 Quai des Queyries, 33100 Bordeaux) and ROCHER PALMER (1 Rue Aristide Briand, 33152 Cenon)
Medoc Marathon
Running 42km is only a small part of the Medoc Marathon experience. It is mostly about enjoying great wine, food and the great scenery. No wonder that it’s considered the longest marathon in the world. This year the marathon will take place in the vineyards of the Médoc region on September 8 and will include plenty of activities such as: musical breaks, wine tasting stops and eating a steak at the 39th km (try finishing the race after that stop 🙂 ). You don’t have to run to enjoy this event, many activities will take place on the day of the marathon and the day before, follow the program here. For more info check out the website of the marathon and the facebook page of the event.
When: September 6-8 Where: the Marathon will start in Pauillac
Vign en Ville
This is the 3rd edition of Vign en Ville, an event dedicated to the know how of wine making. During the weekend of September 8-9, wine makers from the Bienvenue à la ferme network will teach you all about wine production through a series of workshops and activities. The event will take place in Jardin Public and besides wine activities will include a special lunch (on Sunday) with products coming from different farmers in the area. The event is free and open to everyone. For more info check out the facebook page of the event.
When: September 8-9 Where: Jardin Public
Bordeaux Food truck Festival
This is the biggest gathering of food trucks in the region of Nouvelle Aquitaine, with around 60 food trucks registered to participate in the five events of the festival, which are spread on different dates until the end of September. This festival aims to mix street food with the finesse of the wine world. As part of this gastronomic event, visitors can taste the wines of the hosting châteaux and specialty food coming from all corners of the world: French, Italian, Brazilian and many more.
Two food truck events will takes places this months: September 8-9 in Château Léognan and September 29-30 in the Hippodrome Bordeaux in Le Bouscat. See all the details about the five weekends of the Bordeaux food truck festival here.
When: September 8-9 Where: Château Léognan 88, Chemin du Barp, 33850 Léognan, Aquitaine and Hippodrome Bordeaux-Le Bouscat, 8 avenue de l’Hippodrome, 33110 Le Bouscat
Ouvre La Voix Festival
Ouvre La Voix Festival gives you the opportunity to discover the beautiful Entre-Deux-Mers region in Gironde in a special way. The three day program of the festival (September 7-9) combines concerts, wine and gastronomy with biking routes taking you to places like Créon, Frontenac, Sauveterre de Guyenne and more. Concerts and gastronomy events will take place in the towns on the bike trail. Most of the concerts are free, some activities (including the shuttle from Bordeaux to Créon) require reservation. See more details and the full program here.
When: September 7-8 Where: Different places at the Entre-Deux-Mers region (check out the program)
Shake Well Festival
Shake Well Festival is an international graffiti festival that will take place in the university campus of Pessac on September 14-16. This is a free event that gathers more than a hundred graffiti artists and gives them a huge space of 2000 m2 to express themselves during the weekend of the festival. The event will be accompanied by a lineup of different electronic music artists that will take the scene from 10:00 to 21:00. For more info check out the website of the festival.
When: September 14-16 Where: Domaine Universitaire, BORDEAUX MONTAIGNE, 19 esplanade des Antilles, 33607 Pessac
Journées Européennes du Patrimoine
The European Heritage days are a great opportunity to discover from within some of the most beautiful and interesting places in Bordeaux. During the weekend of September 15-16 many public and private buildings will open their doors to the public and allow you to taste some of the history of this city. Some of the most interesting places to visit during the weekend are: the Opera of Bordeaux, Grosse Cloche, Hôtel de Nairac, Tribunal de grande instance de Bordeaux and many more.
You can see the full list of the places that will be open to visits here.
When: September 15-16 Where: Many places across the city, check out the program above.
Swing on the streets
Swing In Kiosque is a series of improvised dance events that are taking place in Jardin Public two times a month. This month the events will take place on September 9 and September 16. Take a look on the full program of events on theirfacebook page.
When: September 9 and September 16 at 15:00 Where: Jardin Public, 33000 Bordeaux
Festival L’Effet Papillon
The third edition of the Effet Paillon Festival will take place in Martignas-sur-jalle on September 14-15. The festive weekend will be packed with music, street art shows, a designers market, workshops and an outdoor food area. For more details and the lineup click here, to purchase tickets click here.
When: September 14-16 Where: 14 avenue de Verdun, 33127 Martignas-Sur-Jalle
Last Chance to see the street art expo in Base Sous Marine
Legendes Urbaines, the beautiful street art exhibition that has been presented at the Base Sous Marine in the last 2 months is going down on September 16 so this is your last chance to go and see it. The exhibition, hosting more than 50 street artists, follows the evolution of street art from the 80s until today and presents different art styles from graffiti, to video art, vitrage paintings, works on wood, fabric and much more. The entrance to the Base Sous Marine will be free on the weekend of September 15-16.
For more details check out the facebook page of la Base Sous-marine.
When: until September 16 Where: La Base Sous Marine, Boulevard Alfred Daney, 33300 Bordeaux
Festival Arts Mêlés
This is the 10 year anniversary of Arts Mêlés, a festival of magic and supernatural experiences that is organized by the town of Eysines. As always the program is full of shows of magicians, illusionists , acrobats and more making it also fun for kids. The event is free and will take place on the weekend of September 22-23 at the Parc du château Lescombes. Check out the full program here. Read more about the festival and the performing artists here.
When: September 22-23 Where: 10 Rue de l’Église, 33320 Eysines
Open Air Festival
Bordeaux Open Air continues into September with more cool events of Electronic Music at different locations in the city center. The next events of the Open Air Festival will take place On September16 in Jardin Public and September 23 at Square Dom Bedos.
When: September 16 and September 23 Where: Jardin Public anat Square Dom Bedos in Bordeaux
Festival Le Maquis
Le Maquis festival is taking place in one of the best summer spots in Bordeaux: “Chez Alriq”, the tavern on the banks of the Garonne that hosts concerts every weekend. Before the place closes for winter it has cooperated with the Kélé association to celebrate the African continent, to show its beauty and richness and to create a bridge between the African and Bordelaise people. The festival will take place on September 28-29 and will include a list of African musicians who will introduce us to the great music coming from this continent. See the full program here.
When: September 28-29 Where: ZA Quai des Queyries, Port Bastide, 33100 Bordeaux
BLIB – the beer festival of Bordeaux
This is the 4th edition of Bordeaux’s beer festival taking place on September 25-29. During the five days of the festival you can attend and participate in plenty of activities around craft beer in cellars, bars, restaurants and breweries. The grand finale (September 29) of the festival will gather all the brewers in one event, you can buy the tickets for the final event here. Check out the facebook page of the event for more info. The exact bars participating in the festival will be published on the BLIB site.
When: September 25-29 Where: Different places in Bordeaux
La Nuit Verte de PanOramas
During the last five years the PamOramas event has been trying to get the public familiarized with the green spaces at the right side of the Garonne and this year it’s Floriac’s turn. On September 29, a Nuit Verte (green night) will take place at the parc de l’Observatoire in Floirac with a program of contemporary and digital arts. Check our the full program for the evening here.
When: September 29 Where: 2 rue de l’Observatoire, 33270 Floirac
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 them
There’s no doubt that the two main events this weekend are France’s national day this Saturday (July 14) and the World Cup final with France playing against Croatia. In this article I’ll brief you on the July 13-14 celebrations (fireworks and more!) and where you could join other Bordelais this Sunday to support the national team. If you’re not at all into football and national days, there are plenty of other suggestions for you in this list. Here are the things to do this weekend in and around Bordeaux (July 13-15):
Events in Bordeaux Metropole
Celebrate the French National Day
July 14th is the French national day which is being celebrated in every city in France. Like every year, Bordeaux will hold a series of popular events and parties, the main ones are:
Military parade at Quai des Chartrons – 18:30
The traditional dance party at Placette de Munich – Quai Louis XVIII (in front of Quinconces)- 20:30
Fireworks show above the Garonne river between Pont de Pierre and Place de la Bourse – 22:30
Most towns around Bordeaux will also hold firework shows (full list):
July 13:
Lormont – Place Aristide – 23:00
Mérignac – Stade Robert Brettes – 23:00
Gradignan – Parc de Mandavit – 22:30
Bouliac – Parc de Vialle Bété – 22:30
Bruges – Esplanade Charles de Gaulle -23:00
Blanquefort– Parc de Fongravey- 23:00
July 14
Pessac – Parc de Cazalet – 23 :00
Cenon – Parc Palmer – 23 :00
Talence – Parc Peixoto – 23 :00
Apart from the traditional national day events, plenty of other parties will take place on July 13-14 to celebrate this day, you can see some of them here. For more info about different activities in Parks around Bordeaux Metropole click here.
Support France at the World Cup Final
The Bordeaux municipality is opening Stade Chaban-Delmas and invites you to come and support the French National team as they play against Croatia at the World Cup final game this Sunday (July 15). From 14:30 a happening with different boutiques, activities and a DJ set will take place at the stadium and the screening of the game will begin at 17:00. Allez les Bleus! See more details here.
When: July 15 – from 14:30 Where: Stade Chaban-Delmas. Place Johnston 33000 Bordeaux
Dance on the Quai
Dansons sur les Quais is a series of dancing classes and events where people gather to dance together and learn a variety of dancing genres like Tango, Salsa, Bollywood, Forro, Hip Hop, Street Jazz, Zumba, Country and more. These activities will be guided by professional dancers from different dance schools in Bordeaux and they are completely free, so this is a great opportunity you don’t want to miss. The dancing events will take place on the quai almost daily from July 14 to August 19. For more details and the full program check out the website of Dansons sur les Quai.
When: Daily from July 14 to August 19 Where: Quai Louis XVIII, 33000 Bordeaux
Quai des Sports
This is the 11th edition of this fun sportive event that takes place every summer (July 14 to August 12) at the Parc des sports Saint Michel. The program this month includes a variety of sportive activities such as a fitness night, climbing for kids, beach volleyball, basketball, BMX, badminton evening (July 14th) and more. The festival will be accompanied by artistic and music events. Check the full program here.
When: Daily from July 14 to August 12 Where: Parc des sports Saint Michel
Relache Festival
Relache Festival, created by the Allez les filles association, is a series of free concerts taking place at different venues and dates during this summer. The 9th edition of this festival will last about 3 months (May 30 to August 31) with performances by both local groups and international acts in many genres of music. The next evening will take place this Friday (July 13) at Place Saint Michel. Take a look at the full program of events on their website.
When: July 13. 18:00-01:00 Where: Place Saint Michel, 33000 Bordeaux
Learn how to Tango
Like every summer the Tango Bordeaux association organizes pubic tango events in Jardin Public, Place de Quinconces and la Grande Poste. The next evening will take place this Friday (July 13) at Place de Quinconces. The rest of the events will take place during the summer (until September 7 ) – you can see the full list of events for this summer on the website of the association.
When: July 13 (21:00-midnight) Where: Place des Quinconces, Bordeaux
Bordeaux Metropolitan Summer
Like every year Bordeaux Metropolitan invites you to discover the city and the area around it through a series of cultural events and activities. More than 100 activities of music, dance, public reading, theater, circus and gastronomy will take place between July 8 and September 25. These events are so widely spread across the metropolitan area of Bordeaux that you are guaranteed to discover places (especially parks) that you have never heard of before: Parc d’observation in Floirac, Parc du Viver in Merignac, Parc Camponac in Pessac and many more. Check out the full program of events here.
credit: Bordeaux Metropolitain
When: Daily from July 8 to September 25 Where: Bordeaux Metropolitan – check out the exact location of every event in the program.
Events around Bordeaux
Nuits Atypiques Festival
This multidisciplinary festival in South Gironde has been taking place every summer since 1992. During the months of July (July 1-28) 17 events will take places in 15 towns in the Gironde department: Bassanne, Bazas, Bernos-Beaulac, Cadillac, Cazalis, Cudos,Gajac, La Réole, Podensac, Preignac, Saint-Macaire, Saint-Michelde-Castelnau,
Saint-Symphorien and Villandraut. The program includes a variety of activities such as: concerts, theater, films, debates, tours to discover the towns and more. Check out the full program here and all the info about the locations here.
When: July 1-28 Where: South Gironde- check out the exact location of every event in the program.
Symphony Orchestra Festival
Festival Entre 2 Airs is an international festival of young Symphony Orchestras that will take place inthe Entre Deux Mers region. Le Josem (Jeune Orchestre Symphonique de l’Entre-deux-Mers) invites you to eight days (July 14- 21) of concerts in 25 locations and more than 400 young musicians from seven different countries. For more info about the concerts, the locations and the tickets check out the site of JOSEM and the facebook page of the event.
When: July 14-21 Where: Entre deux mers (see the locaion of each concert in the program)
Summers of Music in Medoc
Les Estivales de Musique en Medoc is the only music festival in France dedicated exclusively to young laureates of international competitions. The festival was created in 2003 to discover new talents in classical music. The concerts are hosted in some of the most prestigious châteaux in the Medoc area and are followed by wine tastings. The last out of the seven concerts of the festival will be performed on July 13 at Centre Pénitentiaire de Bordeaux Gradignan – See the full program here.
When: July 13 Where: 36 Rue du Bourdillat, 33170 Gradignan
CULTURE
Urban Legends Exhibition
Legendes Urbaines, an exhibition that hosts more than 50 street artists, will be presented from June 21 to September 16 at La Base Sous Marine, one of the most unique places in Bordeaux.
For more details check out the facebook page of la Base Sous-marine.
When: June 21 – September 16 Where: La Base Sous Marine, Boulevard Alfred Daney, 33300 Bordeaux
Exhibition dedicated to Jack London
A photography exhibition that follows the life and work of the famous author, Jack London, will be presented in the Musée d’Aquitaine from May 29 to December 2. Besides photographs, the museum will put on display many objects and documents from his journey through the islands of the South Pacific, San Francisco and Sydney between 1907 and 1909. See more info on the site of the museum.
When: May 29 to December 2 Where: 20 Cours Pasteur, 33000 Bordeaux
New exhibition at the Musée des Beaux-Arts
“Par delà les frontières” is a new exhibition displaying materials representing relations and cooperations of American and Bordelaise artists, such as photographs, design pieces, interviews, videos and more. The exhibition will be presented at the Museum of fine arts from June 30 to September 16. For more info click here.
Credit: Musée des Beaux-Arts de Bordeaux
When: June 30- September 16. Where: 20 Cours d’Albret, 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 them 🙂
One of the most gourmet events in Bordeaux, les Epicuriales, is about to start this weekend with sixteen Michelin star chefs surprising you with special dinners. Also, it’s going to be a weekend full of music, with a variety of concerts and festivals taking place all over the city. Your kids will have the opportunity to learn the art of circus at the Festival Jubil’à Jongle. For that and more check out the list of things to do this weekend in and around Bordeaux (May 25-27):
Festivals, Salons and Special events
Les Epicuriales
This event has become an early summer Bordelaise tradition. For its 24th edition les Epicuriales festival transforms Allées de Tourny (next to the Opera) to a gastronomic heaven with about twenty restaurants set up especially for the event. During the 16 days of the festival, the restaurants will be open to the public for lunch and dinner. The highlight of the event is”Les Étoiles d’Épicure” , a restaurant that will host a different Michelin star chef every evening. Discover the full list of the participating chefs and their bio.
The event will take place May 25 to June 9. See more details click here.
When: May 25 – June 9 Where: Allées de Tourny 33000 Bordeaux
Motorium Art Ride Market
Motorium, a big motorbike fair will take place this weekend (May 25-27) in Darwin with a focus on the art of making motorbikes. The program of the event will include an exposition of more than 100 rare and exceptional motorbikes; meetings with professionals from this sector such as representatives of different brands and accessories dealers; night ride in the streets of Bordeaux, and other activities and concerts.
When: May 25 -27 Where: 87 quai des Queyries, 33100 Bordeaux
Archibal Festival
Archibal is an annual festival taking place at the Ecole nationale supérieure d’architecture et de paysage, combining the electronic music scene with different expositions and activities. Most of the festival is organized by students and will include three music stages and two bars. The event will take place on May 26 at 2pm. For more info and tickets click here, to see the line-up click here.
When: May 26 – 2pm Where: 740 Cours de la Libération BP 70109 33405 Talence How much: full price is 18€/ student price is 15 €
Un jour, une nuit à la Bastide
This event is a unique way to discover the Bastide neighborhood, on the rive droite of the Garonne. The event is organized by several key players in the neighborhood which prepared a rich program of activities for adults and kids. Five of the most popular places in la Bastide will host events, each will propose a two hours program.
The participating venues are: 2pm – Guinguette Chez Alriq, 4pm – Jardin Botanique, 6pm – Archives Bordeaux Métropole, 8pm – Les Chantiers de la Garonne / Darwin, 9:30pm– Foutrack Deluxe.
When: May 26 – 2pm Where: Different locations in the Bastide neighborhood (see the program of the event)
Go to a secret event at the Festival de Caves
Festival de Caves (Cellars festival) is an underground theater festival, gathering a small number of spectators in cellars and other underground places throughout the city. In Bordeaux, the festival will take place on May 16-27 and will run the whole month of May in different cities in France. So where are those city cellars you ask? Well that’s the whole idea, these events are being kept secret and the locations will be revealed to those who reserved a spot only on the day of the show.
Check out the full program on the website of the event. For more details click here.
photo by: Compagnie Gbouillon
When: May 16-27 Where: locations are secret for now 🙂 How much: full price is 12€/ reduced price is 10€
Let your kids discover the art of circus at the Festival Jubil’à Jongle
The 12th edition of the festival will start with an inauguration evening on May 25, which will include magic and fire shows, different activities for kids and even a rock concert. The second day (May 26) of the festival will allow you and your kids to discover the art of circus and street entertainment through shows of juggling, magic, games and introductory workshops. The festival will take place at the Parc de Fongravey in Blanquefort.
When: May 25-26 Where: 4 Parc de Fongravey in Blanquefort
Veggie World
The first Vegan fair, VeggieWorld, is coming to Bordeaux with 70 exhibitors displaying 500 vegan products, including food, cosmetics, hygiene and more. The event will take place on May 26-27 in Hangar 14 (Quai des Chartrons).
When: May 26 – 27 Where: Hangar 14, 115 Quai des Chartrons, 33000 Bordeaux
Latin America and the Caribbean week in France
As part of the national Latin America and the Caribbean week in France, Bordeaux will also make its homage to the Latin world. The city of Bordeaux has collaborated with some of the best cultural venues in the city to organize a variety of activities (concerts, conferences and more) , among them la Cité du Vin, l’Institut Cervantes de Bordeaux, le Musée d’Aquitaine, la Bibliothèque de Bordeaux and more.
When: until June 29 Where: different locations in Bordeaux (see program)
Fête de la nature
A market of gastronomic products and craftsmens will take place on May 25-26 on several streets around the Gross Cloche: Place Fernand Lafargue, Rue des Ayres, Rue Sainte Colombe, Rue Saint James, Rue Ravez et Rue Bouquières. The event will continue into the evening with concerts and a DJ.
A rock festival, ROCK IS BAC, will take place in the Bacalan neighborhood on May 26 (3 pm). You can see the long list of artists that will take the stage in the facebook page of the event. The event is free.
When: May 26 – 3pm Where: Place Adolphe Buscaillet 33 000 BORDEAUX
Shake Art Festival
This is the 20th edition of the Shake Art festival, an event connecting music with different forms of art such as photography, painting and sculpture. The program includes a DJ workshop and an exposition where you can meet all the artists. The event will take place May 25-26 at the DJ Art School.
When: May 25- 26 Where: 5 Rue Ligier, 33000 BORDEAUX
CULTURE
Trajectoires
Trajectoires is a unique cultural event where talented students of music, theater and choreography will perform their works of art to pass their diploma. Around 50 different performances of theater, comedy, dance and music will be put on stage in different locations in Bordeaux.
Take a look on the full list of performances and the details about all the events here.
When: May 22-27 Where: different locations in Bordeaux (see program)
Pilleur de rêves- Philippe Mohlitz
Philippe Moritz is a engraving Bordelaise artist. The exhibition (2 March – 4 June 2018)takes place in the Musée des Beaux-Arts art in Bordeaux and includes about 40 works of the artist. For more info check out the site of the museum.
When: 2 March – 4 June 2018 Where: 20 cours d’Albret, 33 000 Bordeaux
Speedy Graphito – Urban Fever at Institut Bernard magrez
An exhibition by the famous French street artist, Speedy Graphito, will be presented at the Institut Bernard Magrez until July 15. The artist uses many forms of art – painting, sculpture, photo, video and more to express his innovative and sometimes political ideas.
Check out the website of Speedy graphito to explore the works of the artist and the website of the museum for more information about the exhibition.
When: April 19– July 15
Where: 16 rue de Tivoli, Bordeaux
“Lueurs…” exhibition by a painter and a photographer
Lueurs is an exhibition by the artists Emmanuelle Leblanc (painter) and Yohann Gozard (photographer) that deals with light.The exhibition will be presented at the Galerie DX until June 2.
When: Until 4 June 2018 Where: 10, place des Quinconces 33000 Bordeaux
Carrousel de Saint-Pétersbourg Exhibition
Carrousel de Saint-Pétersbourg is an exhibition that presents the works of 17 artists coming from Saint Petersbourg, painting in oil, watercolors, and engravings. The works of these artists embody the current trends in Russian figurative painting. The exhibition is presented in Espace Saint – Rémi from May 17 to May 27.
When: May 17- 27 Where: 4 Rue Jouannet, 33000 Bordeaux
Last chance to see the Remigio ROSANI exhibition
An Exhibition of the Italian artist Remigio Rosani is taking place at the Musée de la Création Franche in Begles (16 March- 28 May 2018). His brightly colored drawings are executed in oil pastel and the dominant theme in his work is hedonism and carnal relationships. See more info.
When: March 16- May 28
Where: 58 avenue du Maréchal de Lattre de Tassigny ,33130 Bègles
Do you have other events to add to the list? Please share them in the comments so all of us can enjoy them 🙂
And please share the post with your friends, thanks!
This May, holidays are so nicely spread that it feels like there’s no time to work. Some of you will be taking little ‘ponts’ and going away for a long weekend, but for those of you staying in the area, don’t be discouraged, there are great things to do this weekend.
Here is the list of things to do this weekend in Bordeaux (May 4-6):
Festivals, Salons and Special events
The opening of La Guinguette chez Alriq
One of the best places to spend a sunny weekend is about to reopen for the summer season. La Guinguette chez Alriq is a bar at la Bastide neighborhood, on rive droite of the Garonne. On a sunny day you can enjoy a cold beer, nice food and daily concerts with a magnificent view of the Garonne river. The opening weekend will take place on May 3-6and 4 festive opening nights have already been announced, with music shows dedicated to different music genres.
When: May 3-6
Where: ZA Quai des Queyries, Port Bastide, 33100 Bordeaux
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. The dealers of the 100th edition of the brocante will present their furniture, paintings, dishes and other antiques until May 8, so if you’re hunting for a nice piece to decorate you apartment, use this long weekend, as your next opportunity will be in November.
When: April 20 – May 8
Where: Place des Quinconces
Burdi’Color run in Pessac
La Burdi’Color is an annual event of running (5km), color and music taking place in Pessac. This event is not about competition but rather an entertaining way to encourage sports. What does color has to do with it? during a color run natural color powder is thrown at you by other participants and the runners end up looking like running rainbows. The event will take place on May 5and will cost 24 euros per ticket. To participate in the run, you will have to purchase your tickets in advance – for tickets and more info.
When: May 5
Where: The festival village will be located in front of the BEC, next to la maison des arts, PESSAC (33600).
Banzai Lab- an independent music festival
This is the 10th edition of the Banzai – Lab, the independent music festival of Bordeaux that takes place in Le Rocher de Palmer in Cenon on May 4-5. To celebrate its anniversary le Rocher de Palmer invites you to two full days of concerts of different genres: Hip-hop, Electro, Dub and more.
When:May 4-5 Where:1 Rue Aristide Briand, 33152 Cenon
Robot Makers’ Day
The robotic Festival of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region is taking place this week (May 3-5) in Talence. The first two days of the festival are open only to robotics companies, students and anyone from the robotics domain. The last day (May 5) however is open to the public and it’s free. This is a nice opportunity to discover cool robotics technology by attending the Open RoboCupJunior France competition, discovering the stands of the participating companies and associations and participating in coding activities. Moreover, for kids over 4 years old, free coding workshops will be put in place. You never know if there is a robotics geek hidden inside your child waiting to get out 🙂
For more info check out the site of the festival and the list of the companies.
When: May 5 (9am-6pm)
Where: INP ENSEIRB-MATMECA, 33400 Talence. Parking at; 12 avenue de Collegno 33400 Talence
Culture
Speedy Graphito – Urban Fever at Institut Bernard magrez
While the street art exhinition is still running at the beautiful chateau of Institut Bernard Magrez, a new expo has started just two weeks ago, all dedicated to the French street artist Speedy Graphito. The artist is globally considered as one of the biggest names of his generation in street art. He uses many forms of art – painting, sculpture, photo, video and more to express his innovative and sometimes political ideas. The exhibition will be presented until July 15.
Check out the website of Speedy graphito to explore the works of the artist and the website of the museum for more information about the exhibition.
When: April 19– July 15
Where: 16 rue de Tivoli, Bordeaux
Exhibition of the designer Martin Szekely
Le musée des Arts décoratifs et du Design will present the works of the designer Martin Szekely at the new exposition space, behind hôtel de Lalande (the house of the museum). This is an opportunity to discover a variety of the artist’s works, gathered around the theme of construction. The exhibition will be presented in the museum from April 26 to September 16.
When: April 26 – September 16
Where: 39 rue Bouffard, 33000 Bordeaux
Exhibition by the painter Olivier Specio
An exhibition by the painter Olivier Specio will be presented between May 4 and May 19 at the Laboratiore Bx, the center of contemporary art. Olivier Specio, is an artist working in Bordeaux and Berlin, whose works are being presented in different galleries in many cities in Europe and the US. The vernissage of the expo will take place this Friday (May 4) at 7pm with the presence of the painter himself. The entry is free.
For more info about the expo check out the facebook page. To learn more about the gallery, take a look on their website.
When: May 4-19
Where: 4 Bis Rue Buhan, 33000 Bordeaux.
Expolaroid- instant photography month
The Volcan is a new place in the Bacalan neighborhood dedicated to alternative art and culture. This week (until May 6) they hold a Polaroid exhibition with a long list of photographers you’d want to check out.
When: April 27- May 6
Where: 72 rue Bourbon, 33300 Bordeaux, France
TOUS À L’OPÉRA 2018
The National Opera of Bordeaux invites you to discover ballet. A Full day of Activities and meetups are planned for Sunday (May 6) where you can get to know the new director of the Opera, Eric Quilleré, meet the dancers, try a ballet class and get familiar with the process of creating a choreography. The program includes public rehearsal, performances, workshops for kids and more. The events will take place form 11 am to 6:30 pm, some of them require prior registration.
When: May 6 (11am- 6:30pm)
Where: Place de la Comédie, 30000 Bordeaux, France
STARMANIA- Artistic show on ice
To celebrate the 40th anniversary of ice skating sports in Bordeaux a special show will be given at la Patinoire Mériadeck on May 5. Around 280 dancers and skaters will take place in an event to perform different choreographies from different disciplines of ice skating.
With the sunny weather outside, many of you will probably spend the weekend at a park, the beach or a terrace with oysters and cold white wine. But for those of you who love their weekends more active, there are plenty of things to do and you don’t want to miss them: big gardening events, the brocante of Quinconces, live painting on the M.U.R de Bordeaux and many more.
Here is the list of things to do this weekend in Bordeaux (April 19-22):
Festivals and Salons
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 spring is the 100th edition of the brocante and it will take place from April 20 to May 8.
When: April 20 – May 8
Where: Place des Quinconces
Tauzia Fête les Jardins
Tauzia is a gardening festival that takes place on April 20-22 at the Tauzia chateau in Gradignan. The event, which received a great amount of interest from the Bordelaise public last year, is full of events and activities for gardening enthusiasts. It will bring together more than 80 exhibitors specialized in the world of plants: plant producers, landscape designers, artists, collections, horticulturists and in general people with an exceptional knowledge of plants. You will be able to buy plants, flowers and shrubs in the beautiful English park of Chateau Tauzia and also get advice from the specialists on how to maintain your garden.
TAUZIA FÊTE LES JARDINS
When: April 20-22
Where: Château de Tauzia, 216 Cours du Général de Gaulle, 33170 Gradignan
How much: 7 euros, free for women with a name of a flower or a fruit and to all people named Olivier 🙂
Different activities
Cannele d’adresses – Launch event
This Saturday (April 21) Cannele d’adresses, the free guide of Bordeaux, will launch its 9th edition in a big event that will take place at the Place Pey Berland. The program includes: concerts, social games for kids and adults, live art creation (live painting and creation of jewelry), catering facilities and more.
When: April 21 (10:00 – 19:00)
Where: Place Pey Berland, Bordeaux
Urban Gardening in Parc aux Angéliques
An event of urban agriculture will take place this weekend (April 21-22) at Parc aux Angéliques ( in front of la guinguette chez alriq) which is located on the quai of la Bastide neighborhood. Come make your own seed bomb, seeds and barter plants , exchange information about gardening books and the shared gardens in your neighborhood. If you’re a city person but gardening is your thing, this is your moment to join the urban agriculture community of Bordeaux.
When: April 21-22
Where: Quai des Queyries, 33100 Bordeaux
Discover Black Kites at the Bouscat forest
An interesting tour will take place on April 21 at the Bois du Bouscat that will introduce you to the world of black kites and other birds of prey like hawks, owls and buzzards. The event requires a reservation: 05 57 22 27 62.
When: April 21 – 10:00
Where: Bois du Bouscat
Culture
Le M.U.R de Bordeaux
The work of Zarb, the street artist will be the one decorating the big graffiti wall, called le M.U.R de Bordeaux. You can meet him and see him perform his art on the wall on April 18-20.
When: April 18-20
Where: place Paul et Jean-Paul Avisseau 33300 Bordeaux
Itinéraires des Photographes Voyageurs – photography festival
The 28th edition of the “travelling photographers routes” festival is taking place April 1-29. During this month, 17 photography expositions will be presented in the main cultural institutions of the city such as the Rocher de Palmer in Cenon, the Bibliothèque Grand Parc, Espace Saint-Rémi and others.
Get the full list of all artists and more info about the event here.
Street Color at Institut Bernard Magrez
An extensive street are exhibition will be presented from April 5 to June 24 at the Institut Bernard Magrez. The expo will include some well known street artists (mostly French ones), such as MAD C (GER), Seth (FRA), d’Alexöne (FRA) and more. This institute is a historic monument dated to the 18th century, so the combination of an ancient chateau with street art will most certainly add to the atmosphere of the exposition.
This is the last weekend (until April22) for the Planétarium in Cap Sciences, where your kids can discover and learn about the biggest mysteries of the universe. The planetarium will make a real time simulation of the night’s sky and will populate it with more than 3000 stars, planets and galaxies. The visit to the planetarium is limited to kids older than 8. For ages 3 to 5, they will offer storytelling sessions . It is recommended to reserve tickets online as the sessions for the planetarium are limited to groups of only 19 people.
When: April 7-22 (14h15, 15h, 15h45)
Where: Hangar 20, Quai de Bacalan, 33300 Bordeaux
Explore the behind the scenes of the Opera
“Le Vin & la Musique, accords et désaccords” is an exposition currently presented at the Cité du vin, that makes various fascinating connections between music and wine as they are reflected in different works of art. Until the end of spring break (April 22) the museum will hold a workshop for kids that will allow them to enjoy this exhibition as well. Kids (ages 8-12) will discover the magic world of the Opera through its costumes and decorations. At the end of the workshop they will create their own opera decorations.
When: April 7-22
Where: 1, esplanade de Pontac Bordeaux
How much: 9€
Drinking/ Fooding/ Shopping
Dining in the Dark
Tables Vatel restaurant invites you to a sensory experience of blind dining on April 21. This blind dinner will evoke all your other senses and intensify the taste and the odor. The profits from the evening will go to the GIHP association (Groupement d’Insertion des personnes Handicapées Physiques) and a few volunteers from the association will accompany you during the dinner.
Reservations can be made by phone 05 56 11 58 88 or on la fourchette, for more info.
When: April 21- 19:30
Where: 114-115 quais des Chartrons, 33000 Bordeaux, France
How much: 46€
Open doors at Lalande de Pomerol
An event of open doors at the Lalande de Pomerol appellation will take place on April 21-22. During the weekend, 28 Châteaux will offer tours, tastings and many other activities.
When: April 19
Where: La Coupole,36 chemin de Nice, 33450 Saint-Loubès
How much: 27 €
Go for a concert and drink at Casa Latina
Casa Latina hold concerts of different singers and bands almost every night. This weekend the program includes shows of two reggae bands. Check out the full list of events.
Where: 59 quai des chartron, 33300 Bordeaux
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