9 cultural revelries not to miss in France this September

If you happen to be in France this September, then get yourself ready for a host of cultural revelries. Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in French culture or history, or simply want to visit an exhibition or attend a local festival, there is something here for everyone. Here are nine events you won’t want to miss. Visa Pour l’Image, Languedoc-Roussillon From 31st August to 15th September 2013 some of the world’s most important photojournalist talent will come together with photography enthusiasts to discover exhibitions, screenings and conferences across Perpignan. Jeux de la Francophonie, Nice From 7th to 15th September 2013, the 7th edition of this cultural and athletic youth event will take place with sporting, traditional and creative competitions between participants representing French-speaking nations from around the globe. Rencontres de Chants Polyphoniques de Calvi, Corsica Enjoy the traditional Corsican chants sung by locals – from 10th to 14th September 2013 – which immerse visitors in the history and culture of the island. The concerts will be organised around the town of Calvi’s most beautiful edifices. Ambronay Festival, Rhone-Alpes This little town will host a Baroque music festival with the theme ‘The Dream Machine’ from 13th September to 6th October 2013. Many ensembles of varying genres, including professional groups and youth orchestras, will interpret their dreams. Journées du Patrimoine On 14th and 15th September 2013, across the entire country, exclusive venues and exhibitions will open their doors to the public. Along with free entry to museums and special trails, this access will allow you to discover France’s remarkable heritage. Loire Festival, Loire Valley Orleans will be teeming with over 600 barges, 400 artists and over 150 free events as well as gastronomic gatherings, shows and musical firework displays. Running from 18th to 22nd September 2013, the festival will wrap with a boat parade on the Sunday. Roi de l’Oiseau, Auvergne From the 18th to 22nd September 2013, step back into the French Renaissance in the town of Puy-en-Velay, whose origins date back to the 16th Century. The festival will host a variety of entertainment including concerts, shows and – of course – the archery competition from where it got its name. Reopening of the Galliera Museum, Paris The French capital’s fashion museum will reopen its doors, after extensive renovations, on the 28th September 2013 with an exhibition on Azzedine Alaïa’s career alongside the museum’s extensive permanent collections. Fete de la Gastronomie Fete de la Gastronomie, from the 20th to 22nd September 2013, will come alive with events in every corner of France to celebrate its UNESCO-listed ‘world intangible heritage’ status. From grand-scale concerts to local sing-a-longs, and Michelin-star set menus to small village banquets, the country will be in lively spirits to celebrate one of its most popular claims to fame.