Every summer, the city of Avignon transforms itself into an immense open-air theatrical stage, hosting the prestigious Festival d'Avignon. Renowned worldwide for its artistic and cultural commitment, this festival offers a unique panorama of contemporary performing arts. The 78th edition of the Festival d'Avignon, will run from June 29 to July 21, 2024 so as not to take place at the same time as the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Thousands of spectators from all over the world are expected for a captivating immersion and a whirlwind of creativity, in the heart of the City of the Popes.
Why celebrate the Festival d'Avignon?
Initiated in 1947 by Jean Vilar, the Festival d'Avignon was conceived as a celebration of live theater. The event quickly became a must for theater and performance enthusiasts. The Festival d'Avignon is a great example of the cultural and traditional significance of this festival, which serves as a springboard for many artists.
How do I get to the Avignon Festival?
Avignon is easily accessible by TGV from Paris and other major European cities. During the festival, the city is pedestrianized in many quarters, but shuttles and self-service bicycles are available to make getting around easier. To get to the Festival d'Avignon, you have several options, depending on your point of departure:
- By car, carpooling: via the A7 freeway if you're coming from the north or south of France. Several parking lots are available near Avignon city center;
- By train: Avignon Centre station is well served by trains from many cities in France, including Paris, Marseille, Lyon and other major cities. Once at the station, you can take a bus or cab to the city center;
- By plane : if you're coming from abroad or from far away, you can fly to the nearest airport, which is Avignon-Provence airport (Aéroport d'Avignon-Caumont). From there, you can take a cab or shuttle bus to the festival;
- By bus: some bus companies offer connections to Avignon from other French and European cities. You can check timetables and fares with the bus companies or online booking sites.
What is the Festival d'Avignon program?
The Festival d'Avignon offers a wide range of whirlwind activities:
- Plays ;
- Dance performances;
- Readings;
- Exhibitions;
- And workshops.
Performances take place in a number of the city's historic venues, including the famous Cour d'Honneur in the Palais des Papes. The 78th edition of the Festival d'Avignon highlights the Spanish language and presents a visual identity in the colors of the South. Directed by Tiago Rodrigues, the festival stands out for its commitment to creativity. 80% of shows are created specifically for the event. Highlights include the return of French choreographer Boris Charmatz with three shows, including an immersion in Pina Bausch's famous Café Müller.
This year's edition will be marked by multidisciplinary performances, including dance, theater and even circus. Among the guests, Polish director Marta Górnicka will present a chorus of women from the Ukraine, Poland and Belarus, offering tales of survival and resilience against a backdrop of war and exile. The festival aims to democratize access to culture by offering more seats and attracting young people in particular with the "first time" initiative.
Where to stay to enjoy the Avignon Festival?
You'll be strolling through Avignon's sublime alleyways, from play to play and during the festival's OFF program. Surprises await you around every corner! To help you relax, discover our selection of charming accommodations:
- HÔTEL MIGNON a small, chic, comfortable family-run hotel, ideally located in Avignon, offering hearty breakfasts. Cyclists welcome;
- LA FERME - Hotel cosy, warm atmosphere on Barthelasse island, with a smiling team and summer swimming pool;
- RÉSIDENCE LES CORDELIERS - Apartment residence in the Avignon ramparts, offering apartments and studios for pleasant stays, with fully-equipped kitchenette.
What are the dates of the Avignon Festival?
The 78th Festival d'Avignon will be held in the Vaucluse region from June 29 to July 21, 2024 , marking three weeks of cultural and artistic effervescence. Shifted to coincide with the Olympic Games, it promises greater participation by school groups and more places for local audiences. Last year's Festival d'Avignon welcomed almost 122,000 spectators!
Where to eat during the Festival d'Avignon?
The city is packed with bistros, gourmet restaurants and small stalls offering Provencal specialties. Don't miss the local markets for a quick and delicious meal between two shows. And check out our 3 favorites:
- RESTAURANT LA VIEILLE FONTAINE - HÔTEL D'EUROPE - French cuisine : a Michelin-starred restaurant in Avignon. Pascal Auger sublimates local produce into inventive recipes;
- LE 46, RESTAURANT BAR À VIN - Bistrot - Brasserie: friendly restaurant near the Palais des Papes. It offers a fine wine list and gourmet Mediterranean cuisine;
- FOU DE FAFA - French cuisine : small restaurant in the historic center of Avignon, delicious food, friendly welcome and pleasant surroundings.
What is the theme of the Avignon Festival?
The theme of the Festival d'Avignon 2024 is marked by the presence of Spanish as a guest language and the participation of various artists. Among them:
- Mario Pensotti will direct the touring show;
- Creations such as "Lacrima" by Caroline Guiela N'Guyen and "Mothers, A song for wartime" by Martha Gornicka will be presented;
- A notable novelty is the introduction of a collaborating artist for the duration of the festival. Boris Charmatz will propose three artistic projects for the 2024 edition;
- Tiago Rodrigues will direct "Hécube pas Hécube". Based on Euripides, it features the Comédie-Française andElsa Lepoivre in the title role. It will take place at the Carrière de Boulbon.
Where to park during the Festival d'Avignon?
During the festival, we recommend that you park your vehicle in the free peripheral parking lots. You can also take the shuttle bus to the city center.
The Festival d'Avignon 2024 offers an immersive experience that captures the essence of theater and performance. Live to the rhythm of contemporary creation and discover an emblematic city in a whole new light. Make sure you don't forget anything with our essential festival checklist! And since you're in the South of France, take the opportunity to dance the night away at one of the 20 must-see music festivals in France in 2024!
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