September changes everything in Provence. The beaches clear out, the sea stays above 22 degrees, and the outdoor seating areas have more room again.
It’s grape harvest season, both in the Luberon and the Rhône Valley. The markets are overflowing with grapes, figs, and the first olives of the season. Villages are hosting their local festivals and farmers’ markets.
You can hike up Mont Ventoux without sweltering in the heat. You can visit Aix, Arles, or Avignon without waiting in long lines. Hotels adjust their rates as soon as summer vacation ends.
Discover the must-see events in Provence this September
Here are the events and festivals you won’t want to miss this month. Below, you’ll find ideas for activities to enjoy with family or friends.
Early September
THE GRAPE HARVEST CEREMONY in Châteauneuf-du-Pape (Vaucluse)
A solemn proclamation marking the start of the grape harvest by the winemakers and the Confrérie des Échansons des Papes, in the heart of the Rhône Valley’s most prestigious vineyard, followed by a festive evening featuring the appellation’s wines. Friday, September 4, 2026.
CANNES YACHTING FESTIVAL in Cannes (Alpes-Maritimes)
This is where the world’s leading boatbuilders and top brands in the nautical industry choose to showcase their latest innovations. Nearly 700 boats on display in the Vieux Port and Port Canto. September 8–13, 2026.
Events in Mid-September
FÉRIA DU RIZ in Arles (Bouches-du-Rhône)
One of the year’s major events, featuring bullfights, novilladas, Goyesque bullfights, and Camargue-style bull runs in the arena, as well as abrivado, encierro, bandido, bodegas, and concerts. September 11–13, 2026.
EUROPEAN HERITAGE DAYS throughout Provence.
Castles, bastides, mills, chapels, and artisan workshops open their doors free of charge, including sites that are closed the rest of the year. September 19 and 20, 2026.
GREEN OLIVE FESTIVAL in Mouriès (Bouches-du-Rhône)
Listed as part of France’s Intangible Cultural Heritage, it kicks off the olive paste season in France’s leading olive-growing town. Features include the World Olive-Cracking Contest, the Olive Mass, a grand Provençal parade, a Camargue-style race, and a food market. September 19 and 20, 2026.
ROYAL REGATTAS in Cannes (Alpes-Maritimes)
More than 150 classic sailboats—some over a century old—compete for the world championship in traditional yachting in the Bay of Cannes. The program includes a beauty contest and a parade. September 19–26, 2026.
Late September
LES CORRESPONDANCES in Manosque (Alpes-de-Haute-Provence)
The literary season takes over the historic pedestrianized center: meet-and-greets with authors in the town squares, literary readings and concerts in the evening, and about a hundred writing stations set up throughout the town where anyone can write a letter with postage provided by the festival. September 23–27, 2026.
THE STAR-RATED GRAPE HARVEST in Cassis (Bouches-du-Rhône)
When gastronomy harmonizes with the wines of Cassis: Michelin-starred chefs and Meilleurs Ouvriers de France, cooking and pastry demonstrations, a market featuring artisans and producers, wine bars, and cooking classes. September 25–27, 2026.
MARSEILLE FAIR in Marseille (Bouches-du-Rhône)
The must-attend event at the start of the school year to discover the latest trends in home and decor, as well as gastronomy, wellness, fashion, and the outdoors. 1,000 exhibitors across 120,000 m² at Parc Chanot, with the theme “The Mediterranean Takes Center Stage.” September 25–October 5, 2026.
LES VOILES DE ST TROPEZ in Saint-Tropez (Var)
An exceptional sailing event bringing together approximately 250 sailboats, ranging from century-old classic vessels to Maxis and the prestigious J-Class yachts. The Village des Voiles is open to the public free of charge at the harbor. September 26–October 4, 2026.
Contact us to add a September event to Provence Web.
Month-by-Month Events
For each month of the year, discover our selection of must-see Provençal events month by month:
Things to do in Provence in September
In September, Provence gets back into its groove: the sea stays warm, the villages empty out, and the grape harvest begins everywhere. Here are a few of our recommendations:
