Rachel Southwood

28 October 2025

Lifestyle & Culture

A Year of Festivals and Seasonal Joy: Discover Life in Occitanie Through Spring, Summer, Autumn and Winter Celebrations

From springtime fêtes to sun-drenched summer evenings, crisp autumn harvests and cosy winter celebrations, living in southern France offers a year-round rhythm of festivals and seasonal delights. In Occitanie - a region rich in tradition, history and local pride – the calendar is brimming with events that celebrate everything from food and wine to fire and folklore.

Whether you’re dreaming of a move, already unpacking boxes or simply planning a longer stay, here’s a seasonal guide to help you savour the best of life in this sunny, soulful part of France.

Spring: Blooms, Bulls and Easter Traditions

As the first warm breezes roll in, Occitanie wakes up. Almond blossoms start to appear in February and by April, the landscape is green and wildflowers are everywhere. This is the season of rebirth and festivals that reflect the energy of spring.

Feria de Pascua, Nîmes. Held around Easter, the Feria is a heady mix of bullfighting (yes, still a tradition here), flamenco, bodegas and brass bands echoing through the old Roman streets. Even if you don’t fancy the arena, the town buzzes with life all weekend.

Fête de la Nature. Celebrated in May, this nationwide event sees gardens and natural spaces across Occitanie open to the public. Walks, talks and family-friendly activities make it a lovely way to connect with the local landscape.

Summer: Music, Markets and Midnight Fireworks

Summer in Occitanie is hot, happy and overflowing with events. Long evenings stretch into the night, and every village seems to have its own fête.

Fête de la Musique On 21 June, towns and cities across France come alive with music of every kind. From jazz in courtyards to DJs in the streets, Carcassonne, Toulouse and Montpellier are all particularly lively places to experience it.

Bastille Day, 14 July Think fireworks, dancing in the town square and a palpable sense of celebration. Carcassonne hosts one of the most spectacular displays in the country, with pyrotechnics lighting up the medieval cité. Arrive early – it’s popular!

Summer Markets & Night Markets Evenings are made for apéro and wandering. Local marchés nocturnes offer everything from handmade soaps and baskets to wine tastings and live music. Look out for signs in your local village – they pop up everywhere.

Autumn: Wine, Chestnuts and Harvest Cheer

There’s something deeply grounding about autumn in southern France. The light shifts, the pace slows and the colours deepen. This is the season for foraging, feasting and celebrating the region’s rich rural life.

Vendanges (Grape Harvest) Though not a single event, harvest time is a big deal. You’ll see pickers in the vineyards, tractors hauling crates and plenty of local wine fêtes. Many domaines welcome visitors for tastings and harvest lunches.

Fête de la Châtaigne Chestnut festivals are an autumn staple in mountain villages and forested valleys. Head to places like Saint-Pons-de-Thomières in the Haut-Languedoc for roast chestnuts, music and local crafts.

Festival des Lanternes, Montauban Although originally held in Gaillac, this magical lantern festival has found a new home in Montauban. Typically running from late autumn into the new year, it’s a stunning, otherworldly experience best visited after dark.

Winter: Light, Tradition and Warming Plates

Winters are mild here but still feel distinct – fireplaces are lit, truffles are hunted and festive markets bring a touch of magic. It’s a time for cosy gatherings, slow cooking and quiet beauty.

Marchés de Noël: Toulouse, Albi and Narbonne all host atmospheric Christmas markets, complete with vin chaud, wooden chalets and seasonal goodies. Smaller villages often put on their own sweet versions too – perfect for picking up handmade gifts.

Truffle Markets: Pigs and dogs trained to sniff out truffles are a regular sight in winter. Head to Lalbenque or Limoux for truffle markets where you can watch auctions, taste slivers of the precious fungi and learn how to cook with them.

Fête de la Saint Vincent: In wine regions, January often kicks off with Saint Vincent’s Day, the patron saint of winemakers. Expect blessings of the vines, parades and tastings. It’s a beautiful blend of sacred and celebratory.