Journées Européennes du Patrimoine – European Heritage Days: 19 and 20 September across the whole country, hundreds of historical buildings, famous monuments, Government sites and places of interest – some of which are normally closed to the public, open their doors and welcome in visitors. It is an amazing opportunity to explore and find out more about some truly fantastic buildings in France. Discover the heritage of France, more about Journées Européennes du Patrimoine. Read about a visit to the Palais Royal in Paris on this special day. Details of events: www.journeesdupatrimoine.culture.fr/
Autumn in Paris is about falling leaves, grey skies ... and Nuit Blanche (the sleepless night). Every first Saturday in October, beginning at sunset, Paris celebrates contemporary art. Installations, light displays, music, visual art and performance art transform the capital into a giant artistic festival that goes on throughout the night.
Be your own tour guide: set off and discover the night time fun in different venues and streets all over Paris. This is a night of surprise, a dusk to dawn extravaganza.
Details: quefaire.paris.fr/
National Event: Semaine du Gout – Taste Week: 12-18 October. Throughout France, a foodie event featuring original and varied cuisines. Taste Week is an opportunity to learn more about the art of gastronomy, to appreciate the diversity of flavours, and to increase public awareness of a healthy lifestyle. As part of the event, workshops for the public include cooking classes, tastings and entertainment. Website for details: www.legout.com
Picardy, Amiens: Grand Rederie Amiens – the second largest flea market in northern France after Lille’s Grand Braderie (the largest in Europe) held first Sunday every October.
Read our review: Amiens Rederie Details: Picardy Tourist website
October 30–November 11: Dijon International and Gastronomic Fair food, wine and culinary entertainment - what could be better? Website for details Foire de Dijon
Read our review of Dijon
October 7–11: Fête des Vendanges, Montmartre neighborhood of Paris (grape harvest festival), fun and a festive atmosphere! Read about the vineyards of Paris, there are not many left but if you know where to look - you're in for a surprise!
19-20 September: If there’s one French food that’s celebrated the world over, it’s cheese. Head to the town of Neufchâtel-en-Bray, Seine-Maritime (76), Upper Normandy to enjoy the Fête du Fromage, a celebration of the heart-shaped Neufchatel cheese made in the area, washed down with local cider. Website for details:
Photo by: Dawne Polis, an American artist, living in the French countryside - her artiwork is available through McGawGraphics or RedBubble. Fnd her on Facebook: French at Heart or her blog Quiddity 2.
Please check websites for details, we do our best to make sure information is accurate but sometimes, dates/venues change and events are cancelled....