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What to do in Avignon Provence area? Markets and Festivals in Uzès
Nestled in the heart of the Gard department, Uzès, affectionately nicknamed “The First Duchy of France,” (or Duché ) enchants visitors with its vibrant mix of French food festivals, cultural events, and historical charm. It’s well-known for its weekly Provençal market. If you’re planning a holiday in the South of France and wondering what to do in the Avignon Provence area, this article offers a detailed round-up of the best festivals and markets that take place in and around Uzès.
Less than an hour from Avignon, it’s my favorite medieval village in France for the charm of its center plaza, Roman ruins, provençal vibe and vibrant market days. A bonus is the multiple opportunities to find treasures at its weekly brocante, a French flea market.
This is a city for gourmands interested in terroir and excellent wine. Also, it offers wonderful *accommodation options and lots of excellent restaurants. Consider making it your base to holiday in the South of France and discover Provence and Occitanie.
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Not to be Missed - Uzés Market Days - Best in Gard Department
Weekly Marché d’Uzès: This bustling Saturday market, overflowing with local produce, handcrafted treasures, and regional specialties, is a sensory feast for every visitor. Wednesdays offer a more relaxed version, focusing primarily on food items. Check out our *in-depth guide to the market with loads of drool-worthy pictures.
Marché Nocturne: During the balmy summer evenings, the Night Markets come alive, transforming Uzès into a haven for foodies and artisans. Savor delectable offerings from local producers, admire handcrafted goods, and soak in the lively atmosphere. Night markets happen across the Gard Department, find the schedule here.
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Food Festivals in the Avignon Provence Area Celebrating Gastronomy and Local Flavors in Uzès
No need to wonder what to do in the Avignon Provence area! Check out this curated list of fabulous French food festivals and events that take place in the Gard Department, an hour west of Avignon. Or better yet, make Uzès your *base to discover southern France. There’s plenty to experience to take in the French lifestyle, embracing joie de vivre (joy of living.)
Weekend de la Truffe: Indulge in the “black diamond” at Uzès’ renowned Truffle Festival. Held in January, this three-day event features truffle tastings, gourmet dinners, and even truffle-hunting demonstrations. Discover more.
Fête de la Truffe: Immerse yourself in the world of truffles at the charming village of Saint-Quentin-la-Poterie in February. Enjoy truffle-themed menus, witness dog truffle demonstrations, and explore a delightful market. Find details here.
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Scents of the Garrigue: Immerse yourself in the fragrant world of the Mediterranean at this unique event held in Lussan in July. Explore stalls featuring natural products, witness plant distillation demonstrations, and discover the beauty of the lavender fields. Find more details here.
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Olive Festival: Unveil the secrets of olive oil production and savor its unique flavors at the Olive Festival in April. Participate in workshops, explore diverse olive products, and meet passionate local producers. Discover more.
Tonnerre de Bio: Celebrate sustainable agriculture and indulge in organic delights at this vibrant wine and food festival held in Saint-Quentin-la-Poterie during May. Get the details.
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Foire aux Vins d’Uzès: Wine enthusiasts rejoice! This August event showcases over 50 top regional producers, offering tastings and opportunities to purchase exceptional wines. Find more details.
Dance, Art, and Music Festivals in a Medieval Village in France
What could be better than taking in some culture amidst the well-preserved medieval buildings of Uzès while enjoying a Duché d’Uzès AOP wine? Read on to discover Jazz, faith-based, dance and EDM festivals, great things to experience in Avignon Provence area!
Fil du Jazz: Immerse yourself in the world of jazz during this multi-location festival held near the Pont du Gard in January/February. Enjoy performances by renowned regional and international musicians. Find the agenda here.
Paques Au Pont: Celebrate Easter in a unique setting at the Pont du Gard park (March/April). Enjoy family-friendly entertainment, a lively market, and an Easter egg hunt for children. Get the details.
Uzès Dance Festival – For contemporary dance fans, this 5-day festival in June is not to be missed. Up to 20 different events are staged across the city in several of the historic landmarks. Discover more.
Les Nuits Musicales d’Uzès: Immerse yourself in the beauty of classical, baroque, and traditional music during this prestigious festival held in July. Concerts take place in stunning historical venues including the grounds of the Duché d’Uzès throughout the city. Discover more.
Les Électros d’Uzès: Groove to the rhythm of electronic music at this vibrant August festival, featuring both established artists and rising stars. Get your groove on.
Medieval Days: Transport yourself back in time at the captivating Medieval Days festival held in October. Witness jousting tournaments, be serenaded by troubadours, and explore bustling medieval markets. Hear ye, hear ye, plan your visit!
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Find Treasures: Brocantes and Antique Fairs
Weekly Brocante: Every Sunday, embark on a treasure hunt at this lively Gard brocante (flea market) held at the Rugby field. Discover unique finds, local crafts, and charming souvenirs. Find more information here.
Antiques Fair: Immerse yourself in a magical world of antiques at the annual July fair. With hundreds of vendors showcasing diverse treasures, this event is a paradise for collectors and enthusiasts. Get more details.
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Discover Even More to Visit the Avignon Provence Area
This city is brimming with culture. If you are planning a visit, make sure to check out the “agendas” across the various tourism divisions.
- Tourism Office – ‘Destination Pays d’Uzes Pont Du Gard’ – offers options across the Gard Department (in French: Gard departèment)
- City of Uzès – here is a complete list of all festivals and events.
- Comité de Promotion Agricole d’Uzès – the committee to promote agriculture in Uzès orchestrates several of the events listed above, but check out their site for more details.
- Even the Duché d’Uzès AOP organizes events throughout the year (in addition to the big wine fair) including gourmet wine and food walks with a celebrated chef.
Here are some fun events we’re marking on our calendar this year!
- Potters and Ceramics Market (Easter Weekend – March 31 – April 1)
- Painters and Sculptors Day (Thursday, May 9)
- Jewelry Designers Day (Sunday, June 2)
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Start Planning Your Trip
We hope this article has given you ideas to plan a holiday in the South of France and to make the Avignon Provence area your base. Uzès is truly a cultural cornucopia and an excellent place to make your base. Find our insider suggestions on where to stay, best restaurants, the fabulous weekly market, a visit to the Duché and more.
If this article was helpful to you or if you’ve been to Uzès and have a suggestion, please drop us a comment!
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What an amazing experience! The suggestion to plan a holiday in the South of France and to make the Avignon Provence area our base is sublime!
I think ‘slow travel’ is so much more memorable without planes, trains and etc. Hope you enjoy.