Renowned for their unique light, exceptional landscapes, and Mediterranean art of living, the Bouches-du-Rhône stand out as a major cultural destination throughout the seasons. Between major international festivals, folk celebrations, and gastronomic gatherings, the area offers a remarkably rich calendar.
To help you plan your future getaways in the South of France, here is a carefully curated selection of the main events in the Bouches-du-Rhône, organized season by season.
Winter: Coastal traditions and Provençal terroir
February: The Oursinades of Carry-le-Rouet
During the winter season, the Côte Bleue becomes the stage for an unmissable culinary tradition. Every Sunday in February, the port of Carry-le-Rouet hosts the famous Oursinades. This event brings together food lovers and enthusiasts who come to taste freshly caught seafood, in a friendly, authentic atmosphere overlooking the coast.
Spring: Camargue identity and cultural buzz
April: The Arles Easter Feria
Marking the official launch of the department’s major popular festivities, the Easter Feria transforms the city of Arles. For four days, the ancient city lives to the rhythm of local traditions, musical entertainment, and bullfighting shows held in the heart of the famous Roman Arena.
May: The Gypsies’ Pilgrimage in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer
On May 24 and 25, the Camargue becomes the setting for a spiritual and heritage gathering of rare singularity. The Gypsies’ Pilgrimage draws visitors from all over the world to attend the procession of the statue of Saint Sara to the sea, escorted by the gardians on horseback and set to traditional music. It is one of the most emblematic events in the Bouches-du-Rhône of the season.
Summer: An international stage for the arts and music
June and July: Major artistic highlights
As soon as the first fine days arrive, the department hosts top-tier cultural events:
The Aix-en-Provence Festival: An unmissable international reference in opera and vocal arts.
Les Rencontres d’Arles: The world’s leading photography festival, taking over the city’s historic monuments, churches, and heritage venues.
The La Roque d’Anthéron International Piano Festival: An exceptional open-air venue set in the Château de Florans park, welcoming the greatest performers on the classical scene.
July and August: Night-time festivities and seaside entertainment
The coastline and the area’s ports also come alive all summer long:
The Delta Festival in Marseille: Set up on the Prado beaches, this music event dedicated to urban and electronic cultures is among the biggest summer gatherings for Europe’s youth.
Provençal water jousting and coastal festivals: In port towns such as Martigues or Port-Saint-Louis-du-Rhône, the basins come alive with traditional water tournaments, alongside gastronomic evenings and fireworks.
Autumn: Heritage, harvests, and creativity
September: Rice Festival and Heritage Days
The third weekend of September is marked by exceptional openings of iconic sites during the European Heritage Days. At the same time, the city of Arles celebrates the Rice Festival, a traditional event showcasing Camargue harvests through float parades and local terroir entertainment.
October: La Fiesta des Suds in Marseille
This must-see music festival brings together artists from diverse backgrounds each autumn in the heart of Marseille’s port area, offering an eclectic line-up blending world music, rock, and electronic rhythms.
Experience Provence authentically with Plaisirs & Maisons de Provence
November and December: Santon Fairs
As the year-end holidays approach, the towns of Aubagne, Marseille, and Aix-en-Provence open their traditional Santon Fairs. These markets offer a chance to discover the meticulous work of master santon makers and to immerse yourself in the Calendale rites and the tradition of the thirteen desserts.
Prepare your visit and discover all the riches of the Bouches-du-Rhône
To make the most of these cultural highlights and discover the true soul of the South, the team at Plaisirs & Maisons de Provence supports you in organizing your tailor-made stay.
Specializing in charming seasonal rentals and committed to eco-responsible tourism, our agency opens the doors to a carefully curated selection of Provençal mas with a pool, prestigious villas, and character properties in the heart of the Alpilles, the Luberon, and the Camargue.