This year's Carcassonne Festival is bigger and better than ever

With picturesque performance settings, great weather and the cream of the crop of French and international artists, the Carcassonne Festival is not to be missed. With theatre, opera, dance music, jazz, classical, rock and pop, there is something for everyone at the festival.

This year's festival runs from 19th June to 3rd August and spans an incredible 6 weeks. Some of the most popular villas in France are located in the Aude Department in the south of the country, within easy reach of Carcassonne and the festivities. With entertainment for all the family, a day or two at the Carcassonne Festival will be a magical addition to your holiday.

One of the highlights of Carcassonne this year sees global superstar Elton John take to the festival stage with what promises to be a spectacular concert on 23rd July. Taking place at the Jean Deschamps theatre, the gig promises to be a sell-out. For more modern tastes, another of the festival's big names, Brit band the Arctic Monkeys, will be performing at the same venue on the 15th July.

French Superstar DJ David Guetta is also playing, with his 21st June gig sure to be a favourite with locals and tourists. With other music acts ranging from US legend Liza Minnelli to 90's indie favourites the Smashing Pumpkins, there is plenty to choice from.

For those who crave a taste of culture when on holiday, there are several theatrical events taking place during the festival. From traditional comedies and tragedies to modern theatre, there is plenty to satisfy culture buffs. Carcassonne 2013 also sees a theatrical production of 'The Diary of Anne Frank', sure to be a powerful and moving experience. As well as theatre, there are plenty of operatic and ballet productions to see, too. For a really special experience, why not take in one of the many open air performances the festival is famous for? You can enjoy world-class entertainment in beautiful surroundings on a warm summer evening.

With performances ranging from ballet and opera to rock concerts and dance music and everything in between, 2013 promises to be a vintage year for the Carcassonne Festival. Whether you're staying in one of the many villas in France within easy reach of the festival, or camping in the area, be sure to pay a visit to join in with the celebrations.