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 Annual autumn country fair |
Place des Quinconces Bordeaux, Aquitaine 33000 France |
Check out this large annual autumn fair that includes two weeks of a variety of merchants, from antique sellers to farmers and butchers. A tradition that goes back hundreds of years, this daily fair in autumn is held every year on the stately Place des Quinconces, underneath the Girondins monument and beside the Garonne River. Make your way through the tables of vibrant activity and wares and discover French treasures and treats. Nearby are cafes and shops to sate your hunger after your exploration. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Official start of grape picking |
Various venues Bordeaux France |
On the third Sunday in September, and after various traditional events, grape picking begins in all the major chateaux in the region. From the top of the King's tower in St-Emilion, the jury officially announces the start of the season. Then a procession winds its way through town, followed by a solemn mass. Finally, after having sampled the vintages, people go and join the wine fellowships at l'eglise Collegiale cloister. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Festival for the senses |
Allées de Tourny Bordeaux, Aquitaine 33000 France +33 556 48 0506 |
Since 1995, this Epicurian event invites you to wine, dine and dance. At the heart of the celebration is the Espace Epicuriales, a large tent where wines from the region of Bordeaux and from the rest of the world are presented. About 30 restaurants also show up for the occasion, offering cuisines from all over the world. Finally, many musicians and artists add to the festive atmosphere; concerts and entertainment are free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Oldcola  |
 Theatre for all in the citadel |
Citadelle de Vauban Bordeaux, Aquitaine 33390 France |
Blaye's annual theatre festival is a chance to see some really original performances by amateur theatre troops. Three weeks prior to the late-August festival, participants are invited to prepare their productions of well-known plays or their own compositions, right in the heart of the citadel itself. Most of the performers come from the Aquitaine region, but some troops are from further afield. The plays are often staged outdoors, and it's worth bringing some sort of rainwear just in case. Blaye is 45 kilometres or so from Bordeaux, and seats for performances cost around EUR16. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A musical feast day |
Bordeaux, Aquitane 33000 France +33 556 00 6600 (Tourist Information) |
On the first day of summer, France celebrates the new season with music. Group upon group of musicians, whether well rehearsed or completely off the cuff, invade the cafes and the terraces, the streets and the squares. People sing and dance till dawn, swept along in an infectious wave of celebration that touches the whole nation. The liveliest spots in Bordeaux's Fete de la Musique include Rue Sainte Catherine and Place de la Victoire. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Hakim_Bey |
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Discover the city's treasures |
Various venues Bordeaux, Aquitaine 33000 France http://www.journeesdupatrimoin... |
This annual event takes place throughout France on the weekend closest to September 15. Admission to museums is free, and many other buildings of interest normally closed to the public open their doors for the occasion. It's a unique opportunity to discover the city's hidden treasures. Naturally this is a popular event and places do tend to get very busy. Call the local tourist board for information on which museums are taking part. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Sample French flavors |
Throughout the city Bordeaux, Aquitaine 33000 France +33 556 00 6600 (Tourist Information) |
Whether its for fine vintages, escargots, cheese or bread, France has a superb reputation as one of the finest food and wine producers in the world. This annual tasting week lets you get a feel for what that reputation is so solidly built on. Celebrated all over the country, the event in Bordeaux will feature gastronomic delights and local specialties from the region's best chefs and producers. There are also exhibition, seminars, cooking workshops, and special events for the kids, and select restaurants offer special menus. Most events are free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Great for Christmas presents |
Allées de Tourny Bordeaux, Aquitaine 33000 France +33 5 5600 6600 (Bureau de visteurs) |
Every year starting in late November, a number of small wooden stalls spring up on the Allées de Tourny, opposite the Grand Théâtre. The Christmas Market takes place in the heart of Bordeaux, with a different country organizing the nativity display each year. The market features a delightful variety of goods on display and an overwhelmingly cheerful atmosphere. There are some great ideas for Christmas presents, and absorbing some local Christmas cheer offers a good glimpse into Bordeaux's culture. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Art and culture for free |
Various venues Bordeaux, Aquitaine 33000 France http://printempsdesmusees.cult... |
Every year in May museums waive their admission prices for just one day. This is a true opportunity to discover the city's temporary and permanent collections; special exhibitions, conferences and debates are often held on this occasion. This initiative takes place in various cities throughout Europe. For France, the programme can be consulted online, on the site for the French Department of Culture, the event's sponsor. In Bordeaux, participants include the Musee d'Aquitaine, the Musee des Beaux-Arts and the Musee des Chartrons (on wine). Review © 2007, Wcities |