Holidays in France are a motley variety and combination of cultures that originated in ancient times and in the Middle Ages.
Holidays and festivals in France
- Christmas: On December 25, the French celebrate with their families, putting on the festive table a bird (in Burgundy - a turkey with chestnuts, in the northeastern regions of the country - a goose), goose liver pate, truffle, oyster dishes, champagne. And “Feasts of Fools” in France is celebrated on January 1-6, in honor of which folk festivals are organized. On January 6, it is customary to gather for the family "Feast of Kings" to enjoy an almond cake decorated with a paper crown.
- Festival of Mimosa (February 10-11, 2015): This festival is held in the town of Mandelieu-la-Napoule, the aim of which is to say goodbye to winter and welcome spring. During the festival, interesting shows are organized with performances by artists, musicians and magicians, a parade of flowers (it is opened by the Queen of Mimosas). If you wish, you can go to fairs where they sell all kinds of souvenirs. And, of course, a masquerade ball is held in honor of the Mimosa Festival.
- Bastille Day (4th July): On this day, folk festivals are held, accompanied by dances and songs, parties, which are organized by the fire brigades. In addition, if you wish, you can go to the Big Picnic, which is held in all regions of the country.
- Festival of lemons in Menton (second half of February): during this festival you can admire sculptures (dinosaurs, Italian Colosseum, Indian Taj Mahal), created from citrus fruits, a solemn parade, take part in dances and festivities, enjoy unusual citrus dishes, moreover not only desserts, but also meat gastronomic masterpieces.
Event tourism in France
If the purpose of your trip to France is to take part in various activities and events, then you can visit the Festival de Cannes, Carnival of the Snails, Theater Festival (Avignon), International Jazz Festival (Juan-les-Pins), Snowboard World Championships (Les Des Alps), the ceremony of lighting Christmas lights (Champs Elysees), etc.
For lovers of noisy entertainment programs, travel agencies can organize a tour to Nice during the Carnival period. For two weeks here you can take part in themed parades and flower processions, watch the performances of musicians, clowns and jugglers, attend masquerade balls, hang out at noisy parties, admire the night sky of Nice, glowing with lights from magnificent fireworks. It is worth noting that you can visit various Carnival events for free if you put on a carnival costume. In addition, you will be able to visit the Carnival Swim, Zumba Competitions, Rock and Roll Race, etc.
Each French province has its own holiday calendar, so if you wish, you will be able to attend folk festivals and celebrations almost every weekend.