The Musiques et Vignes festival in Fontevraud-l’Abbaye celebrates the harmony between chamber music and the vineyards of the Loire Valley. Set in a UNESCO World Heritage site, This event links chamber music with the wine culture of the Loire Valley. On Sunday, July 5, 2026, the festival presents ‘Cordes en Duo’ featuring talented guest artists from Argentina, France, Germany, Italy, and Spain, performing classic pieces from composers like Jean-Marie Leclair and W.A. Mozart in the historic church of Saint-Michel. Musiques et Vignes: Cordes en Duo in Fontevraud is scheduled for Sunday, July 5, 2026 from 5pm at Place Saint-Michel, Fontevraud-l’Abbaye, France.
Tag: Heritage
Equestrian Exhibition at Chateau de Saumur
The ‘Jeux et joutes à cheval’ exhibition in Saumur allows visitors to explore the rich history of equestrian competitions. Tracing their roots back to the martial games of the elite, this exhibition showcases various aspects of these competitions—from duels and tournaments to team sports like polo and buzkachi—highlighting their significance in historical training practices from the Middle Ages to the 19th century. Structured in three parts, the exhibition commemorates the origins of the Olympic and Panhellenic Games. It offers insights into the lively experiences of riders and their horses in competitive settings. Equestrian Exhibition at Chateau de Saumur is scheduled for 14 February 2024 to 31 December 2027 at Saumur, France.
Les Estivales du Pays Blanc in Mesquer
Les Estivales du Pays Blanc: la voix du coeur presents an enchanting chamber music concert in Mesquer on July 28, 2026. The program includes the selected Birdsong by Pablo Casals and excerpts from J.S. Bach’s six cello suites. Launched by local musician Tiphaine Lucas, this festival strives to make music accessible for everyone while celebrating the coastal heritage of the Guérande peninsula. Les Estivales du Pays Blanc in Mesquer is scheduled for 28 July 2026 at Avenue de Bretagne, Mesquer, France.
L’Art au Gre des Chapelles at Chapelle Saint-Louis
L’Art Au Gré des Chapelles returns for its 21st edition, inviting visitors to experience a specific fusion of contemporary art and heritage on the Guérande peninsula. This exhibition displays works from renowned artists across various mediums, including pastels, sculptures, watercolors, and paintings, within the historic chapelles of La Baule-Presqu’île de Guérande. Many participating chapels are usually closed to the public, offering a rare chance to appreciate both artistic displays and the architectural beauty of these historic sites. The event runs daily from 14:00 to 18:00, providing ample time to explore each distinctive installation. L’Art au Gre des Chapelles at Chapelle Saint-Louis is scheduled for 31 August to 22 September 2026 at Chapelle Saint-Louis, Mesquer, France.
Vineyard Walk at Clos des Cordeliers
Explore the selected Saumur-Champigny area with a 5km hike through its historic vineyards. This event includes an informative tour of the estate and winery, showcasing the rich heritage of the Domaine and the renowned Saumur-Champigny appellation. Participants will learn about the esteemed Cabernet Franc grape, its cultivation, and the various growing techniques employed in the Saumur-Champigny AOC. As you trek through the vines, gain insights into the vine’s lifecycle, vineyard maintenance, and the winemaking process that reflects the region’s distinctive terroir. Vineyard Walk at Clos des Cordeliers is scheduled for 16 July 2026, 15 August 2026, 20 September 2026 at Champigny, Souzay-Champigny, France.
Egg Tempera Workshop in Malicorne-sur-Sarthe
Children aged 6-12 are invited to explore the medieval art of egg yolk tempera painting at the Egg Tempera Workshop in Malicorne-sur-Sarthe. Participants will learn about the history of this distinctive painting technique that uses egg yolk to bind pigments. After viewing examples, each child will try their hand at creating a piece of art to take home. This hands-on experience fosters creativity and provides insight into art history while ensuring an focused environment. Egg Tempera Workshop in Malicorne-sur-Sarthe is scheduled for 7 August 2026 at Rue Victor Hugo, Malicorne-sur-Sarthe, France.
Fete des Battages in La Chevallerais
The Fête des Battages in La Chevallerais brings rural traditions to life on 26 July 2026. Morning activities include a bustling country market that draws thousands, filling the village with local products and excitement. In the afternoon, fascinating demonstrations of traditional threshing practices showcase agricultural heritage. Attendees can attend performances by folk groups, notably the dedicated “1900” dance group, which prepares solely for this annual festival. Fete des Battages in La Chevallerais is scheduled for 26 July 2026 at Bourg de La Chevallerais, La Chevallerais, France.
Literary Loire Cruise on Anita Conti
Experience a specific literary event on the Loire, honoring Anita Conti, the first female oceanographer. On June 27, 2026, Laurent Girault-Conti, her adopted son, will narrate a compelling account of a 70-day Viking journey at sea. Aboard a traditional boat, Take part in the maritime history of the Loire while appreciating Conti’s noted storytelling. This is a rare opportunity to engage with the legacy of a trailblazer in oceanography and literature amidst the scenic beauty of the Loire. Literary Loire Cruise on Anita Conti is scheduled for 27 June 2026 at Montjean-sur-Loire, Mauges-sur-Loire, France.
Organ Concert in Vouvant
On September 20, 2026, a carefully staged organ concert will be held at Notre-Dame Church in Vouvant as part of the Journées Européennes du Patrimoine. The performance, starting at 5 PM, features Éline Perrotin, a talented horn player and music teacher, alongside Christine Métay-Segui, the church’s resident organist. The concert showcases remarkable works from composers including Robert Schumann, Camille Saint-Saëns, and Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. Suitable for children aged 5 and up, this event invites all to experience classical music in a historic venue at no charge. Organ Concert in Vouvant is scheduled for 20 September 2026 at Place de l’Eglise, Vouvant, France.
Soiree Bretonne in Les Moutiers-en-Retz
Experience the spirit of Brittany at the Soirée bretonne with Hêrezh in Les Moutiers-en-Retz. This noted evening offers an introduction to traditional Breton dances, led by the renowned group Hêrez. Their music, blending modern elements with passion, creates a festive atmosphere celebrating the region’s rich culture. Attendees can engage in dances and songs that pay homage to Brittany’s history, particularly during the famed Fest Noz. Soiree Bretonne in Les Moutiers-en-Retz is scheduled for 18 July 2026 at Place de l’église Madame, Les Moutiers-en-Retz, France.