Pyrénées-Atlantiques, nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the majestic Pyrenees mountains, is a region rich in culture, history, and traditions. The summer months bring an explosion of festivals celebrating music, dance, gastronomy, and Basque heritage. Whether you’re looking for lively music festivals, traditional fêtes, or culinary delights, this guide covers the must-attend summer events in the department.
1. Fêtes de Bayonne
📅 Late July - Early August 🎭 Traditional Basque Festival 🔗 Website
The Fêtes de Bayonne is one of the largest festivals in France, drawing over a million visitors each year. The city transforms into a sea of red and white, with parades, street performances, music, and traditional Basque sports. It’s an unmissable experience if you want to immerse yourself in Basque culture.
2. Festival de Jazz à Pau
📅 July 🎷 Jazz Music Festival 🔗 Website
This festival brings top international jazz artists to Pau for a series of performances in intimate venues and open-air settings. A paradise for jazz enthusiasts, it offers a perfect blend of traditional and contemporary jazz music.
3. Festival Ravel (Saint-Jean-de-Luz & Surroundings)
📅 August 🎼 Classical Music in Scenic Locations 🔗 Website
Honoring the legacy of composer Maurice Ravel, this classical music festival takes place in stunning locations around Saint-Jean-de-Luz, Ciboure, and nearby towns. It showcases performances by renowned musicians and orchestras.
4. Festival Biarritz en Été
📅 July 🎸 Pop, Rock & Electronic Music 🔗 Website
Set in the chic coastal city of Biarritz, this festival combines music, surfing, and beachside vibes. It attracts both international and French artists, offering an energetic mix of pop, rock, and electronic music.
5. Fête du Piment d'Espelette
📅 October (End of Summer Celebration) 🌶️ Basque Gastronomy & Culture 🔗 Website
While technically at the end of summer, this festival is a must for food lovers. The town of Espelette celebrates its famous chili pepper with tastings, markets, cooking demonstrations, and lively Basque music and dance.
6. Fêtes de la Saint-Jean (Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port)
📅 Late June 🔥 Traditional Basque Fire Festival 🔗 Website
Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port hosts this traditional celebration marking the summer solstice. The event includes fire displays, folk dances, and concerts, all set in the picturesque Basque village known for its medieval charm.
7. Festival International du Film de Biarritz Amérique Latine
📅 September 🎬 Cinema & Latin Culture 🔗 Website
This prestigious film festival highlights the best in Latin American cinema, with screenings, discussions, and cultural events celebrating the connection between France and Latin America.
8. Herri Urrats (Saint-Pée-sur-Nivelle)
📅 May (Kickoff to Summer) 🏫 Basque Culture & Language 🔗 Website
Herri Urrats is a festival dedicated to supporting the Basque language and culture. It features concerts, traditional sports, and a friendly, family-oriented atmosphere around the scenic lake of Saint-Pée-sur-Nivelle.
Plan Your Summer in Pyrénées-Atlantiques!
From the vibrant streets of Bayonne to the jazz rhythms of Pau and the beachside beats of Biarritz, Pyrénées-Atlantiques offers an incredible variety of summer festivals. Whether you’re into music, film, or Basque traditions, these events make for unforgettable experiences in this beautiful region.
Have you attended any of these festivals? Share your experiences in the comments below!