We're halfway through the summer and the holiday season is fully underway, which means that plenty of events are organised in and around Antibes.
Here’s our comprehensive insider's guide to some of the best events in Antibes throughout August.
Renaissance Festival - Villeneuve Loubet
The month kicks off with the wonderful annual Soirees Renaissance in the nearby village of Villeneuve Loubet. A fantastic historical reenactment that spills over from the castle into the streets of the village. Expect authentic costumes, music, dancing and, of course, a solid display of armoury and battle techniques. The event depicts the arrival of François I in 1538 and offers royal processions, a big stage show and a Renaissance market. Great family entertainment!
Fireworks Festival - Juan les Pins
Summer on the French Riviera is not complete without a fireworks and music festival and, in the neighbouring town of Juan les Pins, you will be able to enjoy some amazing pyrotechnical skills. The show starts at around 22:15 and is best seen from Juan-les-Pins Bay or La Brague Beach in Antibes, between Fort Carré and Biot railway station. The display takes place on the first three Thursday nights in August and on Saturday 24th. Why not enjoy the spectacle from the beach at Plage les Pirates, after a delicious dinner?
Traditional fetes
Saint Roch is the patron saint of more than one village in the Cote d'Azur. Traditionally celebrated on the 15th of August, towns like Cagnes sur Mer and Valbonne organise several days of festivities including traditional parades, solemn masses, folk music and dancing, parties and activities for children. As Saint Roch is the protector of animals, a highlight of this fete is the blessing of the beasts, from cats and dogs to zebras and tigers.
Jazz au Chateau - Cagnes sur Mer
Imagine enjoying a long summer night listening to the chilled sounds of jazz music in a beautiful chateau setting. If this sounds like your kind of thing then don't miss Jazz au Chateau in Cagnes sur Mer. Gather at the Place du Chateau every Friday to enjoy a wonderful evening of live music in an unforgettable venue. Various concerts ranging from jazz trios to vocalists and gypsy swing bands will be lighting up the night.
Night markets
The French Riviera's balmy nights are just perfect for some shopping. There are a few arts & crafts markets celebrated around Antibes once the sun has gone down. In the pretty town of La Colle sur Loup, well-known for its art galleries and antiques shops, stalls are set up from 18:00 on August 8th and 22nd while the So Jazz Festival is on. On the coastline between Antibes and Nice, in Villeneuve Loubet, there is a night market by the sea every Tuesday and Saturday from 19:00 to midnight.
Summer Art Fair - Antibes
The month ends with a touch of class and the Antibes Summer Art Fair. This wonderful event, one of the major gatherings of the French Riviera calendar in August, will bring together around 60 exhibitors from the best antiques shops, art galleries, and design boutiques. A must for art lovers, enthusiasts and collectors.
More inspiration...
Antibes is the perfect choice for a holiday in August, not only because there's plenty going on but also because the warm weather makes it the ideal time to enjoy all the outdoor activities on offer.