Top 4 events in Annecy

Annecy has a reputation as a charming, quiet town where people come to recharge their batteries. This promise of tranquillity is also reflected in the programme of events.

Seasonality has a direct impact on Annecy’s highlights. The Annecy Christmas Market is undoubtedly the most eagerly awaited event of the winter season. Then, when the fine weather returns, the tourist numbers pick up again. Paradoxically, despite its great reputation, Annecy remains a microcosm. Don’t be afraid to push open doors and ask the locals directly about what’s going on in their town! The people of Annecy know this better than anyone.

Let’s not forget that the people of Haut-Savoie are on the move! Close to nature and other regional towns, they take their events with them. As a result, many events are held elsewhere, further afield.

So what events will you find in Annecy? A number of large-scale celebrations, such as the major performances (more occasional), the lake festival, international sporting celebrations, the descent of the mountain pastures, festivals…

Our selection of recurring events

Key information: Annecy’s major events will put the organisation of your stay to the test. Mainly in terms of arrival and accommodation logistics, as transport and hotels will be (very) quickly overcrowded. Lastly, Annecy’s business pool is concentrated on a handful of streets. To take advantage of the best locations, you’ll need to think ahead.

1. Lake Annecy Festival

photo credit Annecy

Date or period: First weekend in August

Access: Paying € (£)

Description: In Annecy, under the intense heat of summer, the Lake Festival takes place. This sound and light show is a major pyrotechnics event in Europe. With almost 200,000 spectators each year, the Fête du Lac is a real tradition for the people of Annecy. Over 1 hour of non-stop fireworks, music and luminous water jets, punctuated by entertainment for the public.

Good to know: The lake festival attracts lots and lots of people! The crowds are a testament to the beauty and scale of the open-air show. Nevertheless, from time to time, the weather can be fickle. Make sure you dress accordingly, as the crowds will make it impossible for you to retreat.

2. Annecy Christmas Market

photo credit Chéri fais tes valises

Date or period: Late November to early January

Access: Free

Description: Immerse yourself in the magic of Christmas in Annecy. Alpine Christmas is spread over two areas of the town. One starts at the town hall, the other in front of the Courier shopping centre. Two locations, two Christmas atmospheres, for twice the magic! In all, just over a hundred exhibitors will be selling their wares in 120 traditional Savoyard wooden chalets. You’ll find a thousand gift ideas and be able to sample some of Savoie’s finest culinary specialities. The famous tartiflette, cheeses and diots in white wine.

3. Annecy Venetian Carnival

photo credit Ville d’Annecy

Date or period: February or March

Access: Free

Description: The first major event of the year in Annecy, the Venetian Carnival is a rendezvous full of grace and tranquillity. The festivities are concentrated in the old town, in the Jardins de l’Europe and on the Pâquier. Dozens of people dress up in masks made in the pure Venetian tradition. These superb masks are the finishing touch to even more elaborate costumes. The carnival-goers then stroll serenely through the streets of Annecy! You’ll recognise the references of Annecy’s Venetian Carnival to its transalpine big brother.

Good to know: Psst… Head to the Jardins de l’Europe for the best view of the Venetian parade. A sound stage will be set up to ensure that passers-by and impatient photographers don’t miss a thing.

4. The International Animation Film Festival

photo credit Essor Savoyard

Date or period: In October (9 days).

Access: Free

Description: The magic of cartoons holds a special place in the hearts of the people of Annecy. With this Animation Festival, the town has propelled itself onto the international stage. Leading industry professionals and animation fans come together to celebrate the creativity of the sector. Discover the diversity of animation styles and techniques on the giant screen at Le Pâquier. Films are shown free of charge to the public.