Top 5 events in Marseille
For you, it’s a chance to discover authentic traditions and local fervour at the heart of the action. Are you flexible about your stay in Marseille? Splendid, because certain annual events may help you to block off a date.
Thanks to the mild climate of southern France, events in Marseille are often held outdoors. You’ll enjoy the architecture, the sunny parks and the salty breeze of the Vieux-Port.
Intergenerational get-togethers are very important to the locals. That’s why young people – and families in the broadest sense of the term – are a key part of the annual programme.
Our selection of recurring events
The effervescent city of Marseille has more than a few events and activities up its sleeve! Whether you’re a fan of artistic or cultural performances, family concerts, exhibitions for two or aperitifs with friends and a view… You’ll find it all and much more in Marseille!
1. Akimatsuri, the Japanese autumn festival
Date or period: First weekend in October.
Access: Free
Description: Every year, the first weekend in October heralds the arrival of Akimatsuri, the Japanese Autumn Festival. Since 2011, this extraordinary event has been the fruit of a partnership between the city of Marseille and the Japanese Consulate. Over an entire weekend, immerse yourself in traditional Japanese culture in the heart of the Botanical Gardens in Parc Borély. Take part in cosplay or bonsai workshops, learn traditional games or divinatory arts… You’ll be in for a real treat!
2. Marseille Jazz des cinq continents
Date or period: July
Access: Free
Description: Organised every year since 2000, Marseille Jazz des Cinq Continents is a festival of jazz, soul, funk and world music. Artists from all over the world are invited to perform at emblematic venues in the city, including the Palais Longchamp park, the MUCEM, La Criée and the Théâtre Silvain. It’s the perfect way to discover Marseille’s legendary venues in a festive atmosphere!
3. The Santon Fair
Date or period: From the second weekend in November to 2 January.
Access: Free
Description: Created in 1803, the Foire aux santons de Marseille is the oldest santon fair in Provence. This event features santons (“little saints” in Provençal), small clay figurines typical of Provençal Christmas, representing characters from the Nativity or villagers. Around twenty local santon makers are invited to showcase their creations on the Quai du Port, near the Christmas market. It’s a chance to discover the warm and magical atmosphere of Provençal Christmas. And as we say in Provence, ” Bon Nouvé!
4. The Vieux Port Christmas Market
Date or period: From the end of November.
Access: Free / Paying € / €€ / €€€
Description: From the end of November, an enchanted Christmas market takes over Marseille’s Old Port. The magic of Christmas spreads to the hearts of the people of Marseille, and a whole host of entertainment is on offer to yachtsmen and yachtswomen. The market is also alive with entertainment throughout December. Onlookers are particularly keen to see the stalls full of local crafts and specialities. When the sea breeze starts to bite, gather round for a glass of mulled wine or a cup of chocolate – there’s never a dull moment!
5. The Marseille Carnival
Date or period: In April.
Access: Free / Paying € / €€ / €€€
Description: To admire Marseille’s colourful Carnival, head for the 8th arrondissement, starting from Parc Borély! Every year, hundreds of artists in feathered costumes parade alongside extravagant floats. The announcement of the theme is always eagerly awaited by the people of Marseilles, more than 10,000 of whom come to watch the carnival every year. In a similar spirit, you’ll find the independent Carnaval de la Plaine, Noailles, Réformés and Belle-de-Mai.
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