Travel bucket list idea:
Bordeaux River and Wine Festivals
Bordeaux, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France
Photo Vincent Bengold
Last updated: 10 February, 2024
Bordeaux hosts an enormous festival every summer, but alternates the theme between two of its passions: its river, and its wine scene. In even-numbered years it celebrates wine, with a remarkable parade of Bacchus floats, massive wine tastings, visits to vineyards, wine classes in tents, and more. In odd-numbered years, the festival’s focus is on its beloved river with historic boats, regattas and races.
Both festivals feature concerts, sound and light shows, and massive fireworks displays over the Garonne River.
Logistics
Price: Free
Minimum age: 0
Age suitable: 18+
Frequency: annually
When: June/July
Duration: 4 days
Getting there & doing it
Tickets for paid events such as wine tastings are available online from April, though many of the events are free. They may also be purchased on the day at the Bordeaux Tourist Office, and from supermarkets and other locations in the region (see festival websites for details).
On festival days, arrive early to get a good spot at the free public outdoor events, especially the sound and light shows at Place de la Bourse.
When to do it
The festival takes place every year, in late June or early July.
