Top 3 events in Carcassonne

Carcassonne’s annual programme is just like the town itself: warm, ancient and heady. It’s a celebration of conviviality, of the city’s history, of its Occitan neighbours and, above all, of its majestic medieval city! Historically, and in honour of the city itself, the events take place right in the street. It’s a great way to bring the centre of Carcassonne and its sunny squares to life.

Indeed, Carcassonne is a city where Mediterranean fervour is cultivated through original musical gatherings, sometimes improvised around a café. Attracting more and more spectators every year, festivals, street performances and plays are the beating heart of the cultural season.

Not forgetting the sporting events, so eagerly awaited by the locals and an essential part of the annual programme. That’s right! Remember, the capital of the Aude region is a fervent supporter of US Carcassonne, its rugby club and former French champions.

Where to go out in Carcassonne? Our selection of regular events

Are you flexible about the dates of your stay in Carcassonne? Here are some key events to help you choose your dates. While the cultural programme varies enormously from one year to the next, some highlights are recurrent and eagerly awaited by all. Here’s the proof with our top 3 Carcassonne events!

1. Setting the city ablaze

Date or time: The evening of 14 July.

Access : Free

Description: The first fireworks display in the medieval town took place in 1898, to celebrate the arrival of famous figures from the worlds of art, literature and politics. Shows of all kinds were organised in their honour. It was then that Achille Rouquet – a local multi-disciplinary artist – came up with the brilliant idea of “setting the city ablaze” at night, to round off the celebrations. The success of this unique firework display was such that it has been repeated every year since, on the evening of 14 July. 700,000 people flocked to see the celebrations, including a large international audience.

Good to know: Position yourself quickly to take advantage of the best viewpoints. The bank holidays is synonymous with excitement (and bustle) in every corner of the country, but in Carcassonne it’s on a completely different scale!

2. The Carcassonne Feria

Date or period: End of August, over 4 days.

Access: Free

Description: As summer draws to a close, the town is keen to celebrate the arrival of summer in style… With Latin music! In a popular and festive atmosphere, with concerts, dancing and delicious food, the Feria begins. To the rhythm of the flamenco dancers’ clapping, head for the fifty or so bodegas set up to sample the typical cuisine. On the menu: paellas, tapas, caramelos… No mercy on croissants! Er… Tapas.

Good to know: Head for the Square André Chénier, transformed into a wild Campo! The space has fallen into the hands of the dancers, made up of insiders and day-trippers. Join them as they bring to life Sevillian dances, Latin songs, rock and French variety.

3. The Carcassonne Festival

Date or period: Throughout July.

Access: Free

Description: One of the leading festivals in the south of France, this constantly evolving event attracts more and more visitors every year. The event takes place in a unique setting: the medieval city of Carcassonne. During the month of July, you can attend over a hundred shows, the vast majority of which are free. Theatre, opera, classical orchestras, dance and internationally renowned artists will amaze all audiences. It’s a meeting place for culture and the performing arts that no visitor should miss.