Happy New Year to all my amazing readers! January is here—a time for fresh resolutions and renewed energy. After a little break from social media, I’m back with plenty of ideas for things to do in the region, shared on my Instagram and travel group. You should also check out my article about the best things to do in Bordeaux in the winter for more ideas of things to do here.
While January in Bordeaux lacks big festivals or wine events, there’s no shortage of great shows and exhibitions to enjoy. In this article, I’ve rounded up the top ten events and cultural experiences in Bordeaux this month. Hope you find something you’ll love!
10 things to do in Bordeaux in January
Van Gogh exhibition – Les Bassins de Lumières
January 2025 is your last chance to see the immersive exhibition at Les Bassins de Lumières, dedicated to Van Gog and other famous Dutch painters. Les Bassins de Lumières is a visual arts space, situated in an old submarine base, that is known for its immersive exhibitions. You can get your tickets here.
In the evenings the place hosts another beautiful exhibition – the Little Prince so be sure to check out the hours when booking your tickets.
Le Musée Éphémère des dinosaures
Discover over 100 animatronic dinosaurs, games, and shows at the immersive Musée Éphémère®, perfect for a family adventure! The event will take place at Arkea Arena on Jan 11- 12. You can get your tickets here.
Arlette Gruss Circus
The Arlette Gruss Circus celebrates its 40th anniversary in Bordeaux until January 26. Expect dazzling performances by 40 artists, including acrobats, clowns, and thrilling stunts like the motorbike globe. Get your tickets here.
Mondes Disparus – virtual reality exhibition
“Mondes Disparus” in Bordeaux is an immersive 45-minute virtual reality journey through 3.5 billion years of Earth’s history. Guided by a virtual scientist and robot, explore prehistoric landscapes, encounter extinct species like the T-Rex, and marvel at life’s evolution. Created in collaboration with the Muséum National d’Histoire Naturelle, this educational and entertaining experience runs from June 21, 2024, to November 23, 2025. Get your tickets here.
Genesis
Experience Genesis, a mesmerizing light and sound show exploring the origins of the world at Bordeaux’s Chapelle du Crous. Through cutting-edge video mapping, this 30-minute immersive spectacle takes you on a journey through creation. Here’s a link to buy your tickets.
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 (January 15- February 1) 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.
International magic festival
The International Magic Festival returns to Théâtre Fémina on January 18–19, featuring ten world-class magicians and illusionists. Don’t miss these breathtaking shows! For tickets, click here.
Le Salon du Livre Ancien de Bordeaux
Le Salon du Livre Ancien de Bordeaux brings together more than 40 French exhibitors for the biggest ancient books event in the Southwest of France. Every year more than 3000 people attend this event to look for rare pieces of literature and discover old books from every genre: fiction, kids’ books, old magazines and more. The event will take place at Cours Mably on January 18-19. Read more about the book fair here.
Shen Yun
Experience Shen Yun at Arkéa Arena—a mesmerizing journey through ancient Chinese culture, dance, and music. The shows will take place on January 25-29, get your tickets here.
Winter Sales
January is the winter sales month!! Soldes d’hiver are several weeks in the winter during which you can find really good deals on clothes, shoes, appliances, toys, and more. This year Les Soldes d’Hiver will take place from January 8 to February 4.
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:
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*Note – Some of the links in this article include affiliate links for which I earn a small commission. It adds absolutely nothing to your cost and helps me continue writing about this amazing region. Don’t worry, I’m not getting rich here, I’ll never recommend anything I don’t believe in 🙂
