Festival du Perigord Noir

27 July – 19 August 2023

The Festival Été Musical en Bergerac takes place in Bergerac, France, attracting renowned musicians and showcasing various genres. Established in 1975, it features diverse concerts in iconic venues, promoting classical and contemporary music.

The festival empowers young talents and engages the community through educational activities. Held in summer, it offers exceptional musical performances in a cultural setting.

This festival starts in July, please see the July listing for full details

For further information, please see the official website Festival Périgord Noir

Festival des Jeux du Théâtre de Sarlat

17 July – 2 August

The Festival des Jeux du Théâtre de Sarlat is an annual theater festival held in Sarlat-la-Canéda, France since 1952. It promotes performing arts, particularly theater, showcasing diverse productions from local and international companies.

Performances are held in various venues, including the iconic Théâtre de Sarlat. The festival attracts theatre enthusiasts and professionals, offering a dynamic atmosphere. It also features workshops, conferences, and discussions for artistic exchange.

This festival starts in July, please see the July listing for full details

For further information, please see the official website Festival des Jeux du Théâtre de Sarlat

Festival Été Musical en Bergerac

2 August – 15 August

The Festival Été Musical en Bergerac is an annual music festival that takes place in the town of Bergerac, located in the Dordogne region of southwestern France. It is one of the major cultural events in the area, attracting renowned musicians, both national and international.

The festival was established in 1975 and has since become a platform for showcasing a variety of musical genres, including classical, jazz, world music, and more. The program features a diverse range of concerts, recitals, and performances held in iconic venues throughout Bergerac, such as churches, historical buildings, and outdoor spaces.

The Festival Été Musical en Bergerac aims to promote classical and contemporary music while also incorporating other genres to cater to a broader audience. In addition to established musicians, the festival often features promising young talents, providing a platform for them to showcase their skills and gain recognition.

Alongside the music performances, the festival often includes educational activities, workshops, and masterclasses aimed at engaging with the local community and nurturing the future generation of musicians.

The Festival Été Musical en Bergerac typically takes place in August, offering residents and visitors the opportunity to enjoy exceptional musical performances in a charming and cultural setting.

For further information, please see the official website La programmation – Festival de Bergerac

Sinfonia en Perigord

19 August to 26 August

The Sinfonia in Périgord festival has been dedicated to the exploration of the vast repertoire of baroque music since its inception in 1990. This annual celebration of Baroque music draws talented ensembles from across Europe, resulting in an extraordinary gathering of musical mastery.

Each year, the festival unveils a season of concerts held in the most prestigious venues of Périgord’s rich cultural heritage. Abbeys, churches, châteaux gardens, and museums all graciously open their doors to the devoted audience of Baroque music enthusiasts.

The Sinfonia in Périgord festival showcases the diversity and brilliance of the Baroque era, offering a dynamic and immersive experience for attendees, capturing the essence of this period in music history.

Through its unwavering commitment to excellence, the festival has firmly established itself as a platform for both established and emerging talents in the field of Baroque music. It continues to inspire and delight audiences, fostering a deep appreciation for this cherished genre and its enduring legacy.

For further information, please see the official website Sinfonia

La Fête Médiévale de Cadouin

12 August 2023

La Fête Médiévale de Cadouin, also known as the Medieval Festival of Cadouin, is an annual event that takes place in Cadouin, a charming village located in the Dordogne region of southwestern France on the second weekend in August (please see note *). This festival aims to celebrate and recreate the ambiance of the medieval era, transporting visitors back in time through various activities and events.

The festival typically spans a weekend and attracts locals and tourists alike, all looking to immerse themselves in the medieval atmosphere. The village of Cadouin itself provides an authentic backdrop for the festivities, with its well-preserved medieval architecture, including the impressive Cadouin Abbey.

During the Medieval Festival of Cadouin, the streets come alive with period costumes, music, and entertainment. Visitors can witness medieval re-enactments, including jousting tournaments, knight combats, and other theatrical performances. The atmosphere is enhanced by the lively sound of traditional music and the aroma of food cooked in the medieval style.

Artisans and craftsmen set up stalls, showcasing their skills and offering unique handmade crafts, jewellery, and traditional products. Visitors can browse through a variety of items, creating a true medieval market experience.

The festival also includes workshops and activities for all ages, where participants can learn about medieval crafts, archery, and more. Additionally, there are often exhibitions and educational displays providing historical context and insights into medieval life.

The Fête Médiévale de Cadouin allows people to delve into the enchanting world of the Middle Ages, embracing the history and culture of the region. It is an opportunity for individuals to have fun and witness the magic of medieval times in a beautiful and authentic setting.

* Please check an official website nearer the time for the exact date.

La Bataille de Castillon

Various dates July – August

La Bataille de Castillon, or the Battle of Castillon, is a historic re-enactment event that takes place in Castillon-la-Bataille, a town in the Gironde department of Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France. It commemorates the decisive battle that took place on July 17, 1453, during the Hundred Years’ War between France and England.

The Battle of Castillon was a significant turning point in the conflict, marking the end of English military presence in mainland France. It led to the French reclaiming control over most of their territories, except for Calais. To honour and remember this pivotal moment in history, the Battle of Castillon re-enactment was established in 1977.

The event is an immersive experience that combines history, theatre, and culture. It features a large-scale re-enactment of the battle itself, involving hundreds of participants dressed in period costumes and armour. The reenactors portray soldiers, knights, archers, and other characters, providing a vivid representation of the military tactics and combat of the time.

The Battle of Castillon re-enactment takes place on a vast outdoor stage that recreates the battlefield. Spectators can witness the strategic manoeuvres, cavalry charges, and intense fighting as the battle unfolds. The event incorporates a mix of choreographed action, special effects, and historical accuracy to create an engaging and captivating experience for the audience.

In addition to the battle spectacle, the event also offers a medieval village where visitors can explore and discover various aspects of medieval life. Artisans and craftsmen demonstrate traditional techniques, and there are food stalls serving dishes inspired by medieval cuisine. Music, dance performances, and other forms of entertainment transport attendees back in time, immersing them in the atmosphere of the Middle Ages.

La Bataille de Castillon is not simply a re-enactment, but also an educational and cultural event that aims to preserve and promote historical heritage. It attracts both locals and tourists, providing an opportunity to learn about and appreciate the history of the region and the country as a whole.

For further information, please see the official website La Bataille de Castillon