The festivals and celebrations of Brittany

Brittany

The northern French region of Brittany is the setting of some of the continent's best-loved festivals and celebrations. The Breton calendar is packed with local events and fetes so whenever you go, you're likely to find something going on. If you have your heart set on one of the larger festivals, however, it's a good idea to book your accommodation well in advance as some events draw large crowns. Brittany has a host of self-catering holiday options on offer so there is plenty of choice. From the luxurious villas of the larger resorts to the charming rustic gites in Guebernez and other rural villages, there is something for every taste. Here are some of the main events Brittany is famous for:

The Festival of the Ramparts

This is held every two years in the middle of summer and is a celebration of all things Middle Ages takes place in the medieval city of Dinan. A spectacle enjoyed by all generations, the festival features costumed actors, street entertainers and performers from all walks of life. Huge crowds gather to take part in the celebrations and the city is transformed with food stalls, open-air dance floors, parades and medieval markets.

The InterCeltic Festival

The InterCeltic Festival is an annual celebration that takes place in the city of Lorient. Dedicated to the cultures and traditions of the Celtic nations, the festival features traditional music and dance, painting, theatre, sport and gastronomy. Participants travel from all over Europe to join in with the celebrations, particularly from areas with strong Celtic ties, such as Ireland, Cumbria, Wales, Scotland and the Isle of Man. The festival runs for several days each August and is a fantastic introduction to Breton festival life. Lorient is easily accessible from much of Brittany so whether you're staying in one of the large coastal towns or one of the rural gites in Guebernez or any other small Breton village, it is a great place to spend a day.

The Festival de Cornouaille

This festival takes place each July and lasts for nine days. Hosted by the city of Quimper, the Festival de Festival de Cornouaille is one of Brittany's major cultural events. The focus of the festival is on Breton music and performers from all over the world descend on the region to take part. The varieties of acts performing during the festival attract thousands of music-lovers and lovers of Breton culture. The city is filled with street performances, market stalls, food vendors and art exhibitions for the duration of the festival.