Cannes Events

In 1939 the French government chose Cannes as the suitably sunny location for its inaugural Film Festival. From what was originally an opportunity for wealthy tourists to rub shoulders with movie stars at glittering parties, the event has grown to become probably the most prestigious film festival in the world. It is also the main annual rendezvous for all members of the movie industry. As well as screening world premieres of the year's biggest films, the festival includes master classes, tributes and exhibitions honouring stars of the silver screen past and present. Only journalists and those working in the film business are allowed to attend the event, but the presence of so many stars in town always attracts thousands of visitors hoping to catch a glimpse of the rich and famous.

An international cast of fireworks production companies compete for the laurels awarded at Cannes – resulting in some of the most explosively spectacular evenings of the summer. The event takes place at intervals through July and August over the Bay of Cannes. The flashes, starbursts, rocket tracers and fluorescent lights reflect gloriously from the surface of the sea while the sky is filled with the light and noise of a magnificent multicoloured display. Huge crowds turn up to watch, so it is advisable to arrive early – or consider watching from a boat. At the end of the annual festival, which was first held in 1967, eight judges sit down to decide who put on the best display.

Founded by world-famous pianist Gabriel Tacchino, the Nuits du Suquet forms part of a summer music programme that takes place across the city throughout July and August. A host of live concerts and performances are held at various venues, and the eclectic programme suits a wide variety of tastes, ranging from jazz and swing to rock and electro.

Each September over 50,000 visitors descend on the glamorous Port de Cannes to see the latest models and innovations at the Cannes International Boat Show. Patronised by all the major boat yards, manufacturers and brand names from the nautical world, this is a fantastic event for interested buyers and boating enthusiasts. There is a whole range of boats on display ranging from smaller boats for the leisure market to glittering luxury cruisers coming complete with the latest gadgets, gizmos and fineries.

Each September over 50,000 visitors descend on the glamorous Port de Cannes to see the latest models and innovations at the Festival de la Plaisance de Cannes. Patronised by all the major boat yards, manufacturers and brand names from the nautical world, this is a fantastic event for interested buyers and boating enthusiasts. There are a huge variety of boats on display ranging from smaller boats for the leisure market to glittering luxury cruisers complete with the latest gadgets, gizmos and fineries.

This annual autumn event has established itself as one of France’s great contemporary dance festivals. Every year the programme presents five or six world premieres, which showcase a mixture of new and established troupes from France and the international stage.

The weather here might be decidedly warm for Santa Claus, but Cannes does its best to bring a bit of festive cheer to the Côte d’Azur with the annual Christmas market. Stalls sell a variety of local crafts and produce, and there are plenty of performances and illuminations throughout the city.

The world’s largest music industry trade fair is held annually at the Palace des Festivals. Although it’s fairly corporate it can be a good opportunity for music fans to check out up-and-coming talent.

€295 to €795.

As if Cannes’ glut of designer boutiques and department stores wasn’t enough, the city also holds an annual festival dedicated to shopping. The event draws in consumers and fashion industry experts from all over the world and is held at the Palais des Festivals, which hosts fashion shows in the Grand Auditorium.