All kinds of fun events take place in France during August. Here’s a small selection:

August 1 – 3
20è Festival International de la Marionnette / 20th Marionnette Festival – Mirepoix – Every year the lovely arcaded medieval village of Mirepoix becomes a stage for puppets and puppeteers! More info

August 2
Fête du lac / Lake Festival – Annecy – Every year Annecy’s lake becomes the beautiful backdrop of this celebrated festival featuring music, dance and memorable fireworks festivities. More info

August 7
Course des Anes / Donkey Derby – Trouville-sur-Mer, 2pm-5pm – free – This is an annual event in the seaside town near Deauville called Trouville-sur-Mer. When fancy schmancy Deauville holds its posh horse racing, Trouville-sur-Mer offers a more laid back alternative. More info

August 9
Fête de la carotte / Carrot Festival – Créances, (Normandy) France – How can you pass up a festival dedicated to my farm fresh favorite juice-able veggie? Don’t miss the lunch or dinner, either. You probably know what’s on the menu. Call ahead to make reservations to attend the meals: Annie Auzou au 02 33 17 09 91.

August 10
La Pourcailhade / La Fête des cochons / Pig Festival – Trie-sur-Baïse – Starts at 9:30am – Time to pig out at this annual event with a pig squealing contest and sausage eating contest. More info

until August 15
L’heure du ciné – Movie Time - Nantes, 10pm Wednesdays – Free films every Wednesday 10pm in the Nante’s most verdant areas. Bring a picnic and enjoy dinner and a movie out in an open, lush space. More info Also: see Paris’ Open Air Cinema (La Villette) and Parc de Choisy

August 17
La Force Basque / Strongman Competition - Saint Palais – It’s all about muscle power in one of the most beautiful regions in France, Basque Country. Watch heavyweights lift a boulder! More info

August 23, 24
Fête de l’oignon rosé / Pink Onion Festival – Roscoff (Bretagne) – The regional AOC specialty of sweet, pink onions take center stage at this celebration of one of the most healthful and yummy veggies around. More info

August 28, 29
Rock en Seine – Domaine National de Saint Cloud – This rockin’ 2 day outdoor event is held in the Saint Cloud park just outside Paris. Showcase acts this year are: REM, Amy Winehouse, Rage Against the Machine, The Roots. More info

tags: france , events in france festivals , travel