Top Events in the Var and Provence
From traditional village fairs to international cultural festivals, sporting events to musical celebrations, the Var has a rich calendar of activities and recreation, with a wide variety of heritage festivals and general gatherings.
Throughout the year, and especially during the summer season, you’ll find plenty of opportunities for enriching outings and entertaining festivals. Fun for the whole family!
An overview of the key dates not to be missed during your camping trip in the Var.
Summer in the Var: a Season of Culture, Music and Sports
Concerts at Mas des Escaravatiers from June to September
Come and enjoy a unique musical experience in an exceptional setting with concerts at Mas des Escaravatiers! Held from June to September in Puget-sur-Argens near Fréjus, these concerts take place in an intimate setting in an olive grove.
The line-up is varied and high quality, ranging from pop and rock to jazz and world music, from emerging talents to established musicians.
World Music Day on June21
Classical music, rock, jazz, pop, French variety, brass bands and blues: music is in the spotlight in the Var and throughout France on the first day of summer.
Numerous concerts and open-air stages are organised throughout the Var. Further information from the Var tourist offices.
The Festes du Castrum d’Arcus in July
There are many summer events in the Var, but the Festes du Castrum d’Arcus (the Medieval Festival) is the most impressive. It’s a real journey back to the Middle Ages.
Parades, jousts, demonstrations, markets and entertainment take spectators back to a not-so-distant past. It takes place in odd-numbered years in Les Arcs-sur-Argens, around thirtykilometres from Saint-Raphaël.
Saint-Raphaël Jazz Festival in July
Music lovers, don’t miss the Saint-Raphaël Jazz Festival! Saint-Raphaël will be buzzing to the sound of jazz, which can be heard all over town, from the beaches to the public gardens and the town centre.
You’ll particularly appreciate the variety of musical performances at this festival, which brings in internationally renowned musicians, as well as the beauty of the surrounding area.
The Fréjus Nuits Auréliennes in July
After music, it’s time for theatre with the Nuits Auréliennes in Fréjus! Classical and contemporary plays are performed one after the other outdoors in the town’s Roman amphitheatre.
These outings promise a unique experience for the whole family!
The Ramatuelle Festival in August
This festival dedicated to theatre and music takes place at the beginning of August in Ramatuelle, near Saint-Tropez. Big names in French theatre and music perform every night in the outdoor amphitheatre.
Fans of classical music will prefer the Nuits Classiques, held in Ramatuelle at the end of July at the start of the festival.
You can find the dates of these events on the website.
The Var Hiking Week in September
For over 10years, during the last week of September and the beginning of October, guided walks and hikes of varying difficulty have been led by professionals so that participants may explore the bountiful local nature.
The event takes place throughout the department.
The Leo Paddle Race in September
Provence is not only famous for Formula 1 racing, but paddleboarding as well!
The calm waters of the Mediterranean make it the ideal setting for this annual paddleboarding race.
The goal? Paddle as fast as you can along the coast in the hope of reaching the podium, while providing the public with a picturesque spectacle!
Fireworks All Summer Long
In the Var, there are fireworks displays throughout the summer season. In addition to July14 and August15, the fireworks calendar is packed with events in Saint-Raphaël, Fréjus, Draguignan and Toulon.
To make sure you don’t miss any of these fireworks shows, which always delight children and parents alike, get in touch with your local tourist office for details of dates and venues.
Our 5-star campsite near the sea is open for most of these events! Located in the heart of the Esterel Reserve, you’ll have quick and easy access to many of them. Our on-site teams will be delighted to give you more detailed information about each of these events during your trip to the Var. To find out more about our offers and make a reservation, click on the button below.
Springtime Events in the Var
The Gulf of Saint-Tropez Marathon in March
This athletic, festive and fun event is held on the last Sunday in March all around the Gulf, from Sainte-Maxime to Cavalaire-sur-Mer. Runners often dress up in costume, and a number of events take place during the 42.195km race, including tastings of local specialities.
A date to remember for running enthusiasts, and a great way to discover the magnificent landscapes of the Var!
Printemps des Potiers in April
During the first 3weeks of April, the town of Bandol brings together pottery and ceramics artists to share their passion through meetings and exhibitions. There’s a superb market in Bandol harbour, where you can see some beautiful pieces, and why not take some home with you?!
If you want to celebrate this ancient art form and immerse yourself in the history and culture of the Var region, this is a worthwhile event!
The Cannes Festival in May
This international film festival takes place every year in Cannes, on the French Riviera, just a few kilometres from our campsite!
The world’s greatest actors, directors and film professionals come together to celebrate the 7thart. The programme for the world’s most talked-about film festival includes screenings, gala evenings and, of course, a walk up the steps!
The Harley Davidson Eurofestival in May
Calling all fans of beautiful, powerful motorcycles! The Harley Davidson Eurofestival takes place over 4days in May, every 2years (even years) in Grimaud, in the Gulf of Saint-Tropez. More than 10,000motorcycle enthusiasts turned out to attend this official event for the American brand.
You can see stunts, demonstrations, motorcycle parades, rock concerts, a huge parade, and more. The Harley Davidson Eurofestival brings Harley Davidson enthusiasts together in a festive and musical atmosphere!
The Monaco Grand Prix in May
This Formula 1 course is known for its narrow, winding urban circuit that offers drivers and spectators a unique challenge and spectacle. Every year, the streets of Monaco are transformed into a frantic racetrack, making this Grand Prix one of the most eagerly awaited races on the Formula 1 calendar.
Excitement in the Var in Autumn and Winter
The Barjols Triplettes in January
Saint Marcel’s Day in Barjols dates back to 1350, making it a long-standing tradition! It takes place over 2 days on the weekend closest to January16. A religious procession winds its way through the town to the church.
Discover the Provençal spirit at the heart of this traditional folk festival and enjoy its friendly atmosphere!
The Corsos Fleuris in February
The Corsos Fleuris are flower festivals inherited from carnival. Floats covered in flowers, particularly mimosas, parade through the streets. We celebrate the approaching end of winter. For the biggest corsos, head to Bormes-les-Mimosas (the best-known, on the last Sunday in February), Draguignan, Saint-Raphaël and Sainte-Maxime.
A colourful visual extravaganza, perfect for a great family outing!
The Var Hiking Week in September and October
The Semaine Varoise de la Randonnée Pédestre (Var Hiking Week) celebrates the Var’s network of hiking trails. Over the course of a week, guided hikes are organised throughout the department, so that participants can learn about the rich local flora and fauna.
The routes vary in difficulty and length, making it an event accessible to everyone, from families to experienced hikers.
It’s a chance to breathe in the fresh Var air and reconnect with nature!
The Voiles de Saint-Tropez in October
In early October, the Voiles de Saint-Tropez is an event not to be missed if you love boats. For a week, thousands of sailors fill the Gulf with their modern or traditional yachts. Several regattas take place over 9days.
This not-to-be-missed event is a tribute to the maritime history of Saint-Tropez.
And after a full day of entertainment, the festivities continue in the evening with a giant concert!
The Var Book Festival in November
Every year, Toulon hosts the Book Festival for 3days. The event is designed to encourage people to read and discover new authors. Book signings, readings, debates, meetings, exhibitions and conferences are all on the programme.
A special feature of the book festival is that it showcases Provençal authors to promote the literary talent of the Var.
For literature lovers, this is THE place to be!
Christmas in Saint-Raphaël in December
Previously known as the Festival of Light, Christmas in Saint-Raphaël is a warm and friendly event for the whole family. Enchanting illuminations, shows and parades for all ages.
Christmas in Saint-Raphaël is a must-see in the Var!
Regular Events Throughout the Year
The République Market
Similar to the Victor Hugo market, this partially covered market is held on Place de la République. Around ten stands from all over Provence sell fruit and vegetables, plants, flowers, and more. It runs all year round from Tuesday to Sunday, 7am to 1pm, and is also open on Mondays from early May to late September.
This is the morning activity to do during your stay at our campsite! You’ll have the chance to discover local culinary specialities and the wealth of Provençal craftsmanship.
The Louis de Funès Museum
Located in Clermont Castle, the actor Louis de Funès’ former home, the Louis de Funès Museum pays tribute to one of the most iconic French actors of the 20thcentury. The brainchild of Clémentine Deroudille, the actor’s granddaughter, this museum is a true immersion in the world of this extraordinary artist.
A must for all Louis de Funès fans!