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Things to Do in France: Holidays, Events & Festivals

The French know how to live it up, and they have many festivals, called "fetes," to prove it. Time your visit to enjoy these lively celebrations.
French Markets
A major allure of France is its amazing markets, from produce markets in Provence to art or antiques markets in Paris. From small villages to big cities, from summer flowers to Christmas crafts, find out more about the French market scene.
Un Certain Regard Films at 2008 Cannes Film Festival
Here is a list of Un Certain Regard films being screened at the 2008 Cannes Film Festival.
Nice Carnaval 2008
Nice Carnaval 2007, starting February 16, features a mix of parades, festivities and events. The carnival is a perfect place to cut loose, sample food, see unique performances and listen to music. Find out all about Nice Carnaval 2007.
Top 9 Don't-Miss France Events and Festivals of 2008
France is almost always bustling with one hot activity, festival or event after another. It can be hard to narrow the thousands of fetes down to the few don't-miss events of the year. Here is a list of the best, hottest events in France of 2008.
Beaujolais Nouveau Events and Festivals in the U.S.
Here is a listing of Beaujolais Nouveau events throughout the U.S. The long-awaited release of each year's Beaujolais Nouveau comes at the strike of midnight on the third Thursday of each November. You don't have to be in France to get a first sip. There are many spots throughout America to sample fresh, young Beaujolais Nouveau wine.
Rugby World Cup 2007 Trip Planner
The Rugby World Cup 2007 will be held primarily in France, with 10 of z dozen matches in France. Find out about the cities hosting the Rugby World Cup 2007, and tips for buying tickets and booking a room to see the matchups.
Don't-Miss France Events and Festivals of 2007
France is almost always bustling with one hot activity, festival or event after another. It can be hard to narrow the thousands of fetes down to the few don't-miss events of the year. Here is a list of the best, hottest events in France of 2006.
The Other Mardi Gras Celebrations
While everyone is familiar with New Orleans' famous Mardi Gras parades and wild celebrations, there are several other Mardi Gras celebrations around the world. In fact, the New Orleans festivities have strong roots in French celebrations before the arrival of Lent. Called "Carnaval" in France, there are Mardi Gras events here that predate New Orleans' festivities by centuries. Find out about all the other Mardi Gras celebrations in France and around the world.
Beaujolais Nouveau 2006 Events and Festivals in the U.S.
Here is a listing of Beaujolais Nouveau events throughout the U.S. The long-awaited release of each year's Beaujolais Nouveau comes at the strike of midnight on the third Thursday of each November. There are more than 120 festivals in this rich, picturesque area of France. Even if you are nowhere near France, don't despair.
Christmas in France - Shopping, Feasting and Magical Midnight Masses
A visit to France at Christmastime is memorable and magical. Hit the enticing Christmas markets, sing at midnight mass in a stunning gothic cathedral or dive into a Reveillon feast.
Christmas Markets of France
France is known for its wonderful markets, but one of the best times of year to visit is during the Santa season. There are several Christmas markets throughout France, with wonderful handcrafted ornaments, gifts and food items. Use this guide to plan your trip to visit the Christmas markets.
Thanksgiving in France
Celebrating Thanksgiving in France can be a bit of a challenge, since it is an American (or Canadian) holiday. But if are an ex-pat living in France or will visit during that time, here are tips for indulging in turkey day.
Celebrating Beaujolais Nouveau's Release
The long-awaited release of each year's Beaujolais Nouveau comes at the strike of midnight on the third Thursday in November. This is a glorious time to visit this part of France. There are about 120 festivals to honor the arrival of this enticing young wine in the Beaujolais region alone, not to mention throughout France and across the globe.
Halloween in France
Some of the earliest Halloween traditions started in Europe, and indeed Halloween was born in nearby U.K., yet it was seen as primarily an American holiday with little or no fanfare with the French until recently. Now, Halloween is seeing a resurgence in popularity.
Fall Foliage Travel in France: Peeping at the French Autumn Leaves
Fall is an ideal time to visit France, and autumn leaf peeping is one of the finest activities here. As is France weren't charming enough, seeing this country's cities and villages blazing with autumn colors is simply breathtaking. This is also the grape harvest season, and there are numerous festivals and activities around the country.
Nice Carnaval 2007
Nice Carnaval 2007, starting in February, features a mix of parades, festivities and events. The theme this year is the King of the Deranged Climate. The event is a perfect place to cut loose, sample food, see unique performances and listen to music. Bonne fete!
Mother's Day in France - Fetes des Meres
Think one Mother's Day a year simply isn't enough? American moms can get a second dose of attention a month later by celebrating France's Fetes des Meres on June 6. A French tradition that was inaugurated by Napoleon and made official in 1950, this day honoring mothers dates back to Ancient Greece and is found in several countries.
Bastille Day From Home
Not everyone has the luxury to zip over to France for Bastille Day, but that doesn't mean you can't celebrate their version of an independence day right from your home town. Check out these top ways to honor Bastille Day close to home.
France Festivals
This great site has a map of the country, as well as a pulldown menu listing towns alphabetically from Aix-en-Provence to Vigan. There are festivals celebrating jazz, music, radio, cathedrals, art, you name it. Find out details about each festival, including links for more information.
Paris Festival Guide
This is Frommer's listing of various festivals in Paris, with everything from an African heritage festival to a wine expo to Bastille Day happenings.
Tourism Office's Events Guide
Click on the map to find events all over France, including dates and links to find out more information.

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