Winter Carnival, Avoriaz

11 February – 12 March 2011

Colourful parade, street performers and evening fireworks. Avoriaz also hosts jazz concerts 18 - 25 March 2011 and its annual Spring Pop Rock Festival 2 - 9 April 2011.

Chamonix Festival

16 March 2011

Carnival where participants parade through the streets in fancy dress.

Nuits de Fourviere, Lyon

July 2011

Theatrical and musical festival in the setting of the old town and Roman Amphitheature. For full information see the website.

World Climbing Championships, Chamonix

11 – 14 July 2011

Watch the world's top climbers compete on speed and technical skills in the town centre where a huge climbing wall is installed plus big screens with running commentary. Celebrations on the last evening include Bastille Day fireworks and live music. 

Bastille Day, Lyon

14 July 2011

Day-long festivities followed by spectacular fireworks in the evening on Fourvieres Hill.

Evian Masters

21 - 24 July 2011

Women's golf premier event featuring 70 top players.

Noctibules Festival, Annecy

20 - 23 July 2011

Annecy’s pretty streets and squares come alive in the evening with a variety of street performances.

Lake Festival, Annecy

August 2011

Very popular annual festival with 2 hours of pyrotechnics and music plus concerts and a market.

Vendanges Festival, Tain L’Hermitage

September 2011

Annual grape harvest festival with parade, complete with Bacchus, Harvest Queen and Harvest Princesses, plus dance and music.

Please check precise details and dates with event organisers before making your holiday and travel arrangements.