Avignon comes alive and invites you to discover its world-famous theatre festival

Every summer, Avignon turns into one huge open-air theatre. Founded in 1947 by the director Jean Vilar, the Festival d'Avignon is today one of the largest and best-known performing arts festivals in the world. For three weeks in July, the city's streets, squares and historic buildings fill with performances, music, dance and street theatre.

A city buzzing with culture

The official performances, the "In" festival, take place in unique venues such as the courtyard of the Papal Palace (the Cour d'Honneur), where theatre and history meet. Alongside it runs the "Off" festival, with hundreds of smaller productions in theatres, cafés and on the street. Thanks to this variety, every visitor, from devoted theatre lover to curious holidaymaker, always has something to discover.

Avignon in a summer mood

During the festival, Avignon hums with energy. Street performers keep things lively, posters colour the city walls, and everywhere you will find inviting terraces where you can linger after a show. It is a unique chance to experience Avignon in a completely different way: lively, international and full of creativity.

Tips to get the most out of the festival

Book early

The most popular shows often sell out in no time. As soon as ticket sales open, it is wise to book your seats. Remember to book your accommodation in good time as well, because Avignon and the surrounding villages are in high demand in July.

Plan your programme

With hundreds of performances a day, the choice can feel overwhelming. Look through the programme in advance and pick a few favourites. But leave some room for spontaneous discoveries too, as those unexpected moments often become the best memories.

Soak up the atmosphere in town

The festival is not confined to the theatres. Out on the streets, Avignon is bursting with life: colourful parades, encounters with artists, music on the squares and welcoming terraces where you can relax between two shows. Even without a ticket, you can taste the unique festival atmosphere here.

A day out during your holiday

If you are spending your holiday in Provence, a visit to the Festival d'Avignon is highly recommended. Combine a day of culture with a stroll through the medieval city, past the famous Pont d'Avignon and the impressive Palais des Papes. And after a day full of theatre, the peace and comfort of your holiday home in Provence await you, of course.

Practical information

The festival takes place every year in July. Tickets for the major performances sell out quickly, so booking in good time is recommended. Access to the "Off" festival is often easier and sometimes even free, so you can easily discover a range of productions.

👉 Tickets for the In festival can be booked directly on the official website festival-avignon.com. For the Off festival, you will find tickets and programmes at festivaloffavignon.com.

Tickets are also on sale through Fnac (in store and at fnacspectacles.com), including in Belgium. Please note that these tickets have to be collected from a Fnac store.