One of the best way to discover the region is to attend events and festivals. There are lots of local fairs, shows and outings organised all year round but there are a few major events in both Charentes (Charente and Charente Maritime), which are absolutely unmissable!
Festival du Cerf-volant et du vent
Châtelaillon Plage - Easter
For 3 days at Easter, some weird and wonderful creatures fly high above the beach in Châtelaillon Plage. This international event is host to teams and kite enthusiasts from around the world.
Cognac Blues Passion
Cognac - July
Since 1994, famous artists and upcoming talents perform on large outdoor stages but also in bars and cafés across the city. For 6 days, the streets are alive with concerts and jamming sessions from RnB, gospel, zydeco to blues, soul funk, jazz...
Francofolies
La Rochelle - July
More than 150,000 festival goers attend this 5-day music event every July in the beautiful seaside town of La Rochelle. French music at its best!
Un Violon sur le Sable
Royan - July
Truly magical! 3 nights of classical music on the Grande-Conche beach. free if you sit on the beach (bring your picnic), or pay if you sit in the stands. Each night offers a different programme, all with world-renowned artists performing solos. The last evening finishes with some amazing fireworks.
La Fête du Cognac
Cognac - July
Cognac, Pineau, wine but also snails, oysters, mussels, melons… the best the 2 Charentes can offer is celebrated here for 3 nights along with some amazing music performed live.
Festival de Confolens
Confolens - August
International festival of traditional music and culture. For 7 days in August, you’ll be able to enjoy music, singing, dancing and general folklore from all 5 continents.
Circuit des Remparts
Angoulême - September
Created in 1939, its course never changed since its beginning, in the heart of Angoulême town centre. Races, rallies, exhibitions and competitions of old and new(ish) cars take place during the weekend. Unmissable for car enthusiasts!
La Marathon du Cognac
Jarnac - November
Fancy running in the middle of the vines, along the majestic river Charente and through (yes, really!) centuries-old cellars, the Marathon du Cognac delivers and more. Grand Marnier, Courvoisier and Hine will be some of the pit stops along the way…