The Annual Festivals of Picardy

If you're thinking of holidaying in Picardy this year, why not time your break to coincide with one of the many festivals or celebrations the region plays host to? There are many fantastic events celebrating the food, culture, music and history of the area and, with all the welcoming gites in Picardy, there is never a shortage of places to stay.

La Fête Jeanne d'Arc

The Picardy summer season kicks off with the Joan of Arc Festival. The festival takes place in the town of Compiègne and re-enacts Joan of Arc's last visit the area before she was captured in 1430. A local woman plays Joan of Arc and attends a church mass in character before leading a procession through the town. At the end of the procession, the crowds head to the bridge where the real Joan of Arc was captured.

La Fête des Roses

This one-day festival of roses takes place in June in the town of Gerberoy. Widely believed to be one of the most beautiful towns in the whole country, Gerberoy is full of roses at this time of year and looks prettier than ever. The historical medieval part of the town is a wonderful spot for sightseeing and taking photographs. As well as numerous displays of roses, the festival also features street entertainment with folk dancing and singing. Food, drink and souvenir stalls pop up all over the town making this a great day out for the whole family.

Les Fêtes du Bouffon

The festival of the bouffon, or "jester" in English, lasts for three days and takes place in June every year in the town of Saint-Quentin. This lively festival features dancing, singing, parades and all kinds of street entertainment. With street stalls and a fun atmosphere throughout the town, this is a great introduction to French festivals.

Foire aux Fromages

A festival for food-lovers, this huge celebration of cheese takes place each September. Hosted by the town of La Capelle; the fair features literally thousands of different types of cheese. Cheese producers come from all over the country to share their wares and take part in competitions. If you're staying in one of the gites in Picardy, this is a great way to stock up your fridge with some of the finest French cheeses. As well as old favourites, expect to find lots of new twists on classic cheeses.