In Brittany, culture is not just a legacy — it’s alive, vibrant, and passionately celebrated all year round. Rooted in Celtic traditions yet constantly evolving, the region bursts with musical, maritime and folkloric events, artisan fairs and popular festivals where song, dance, legends and conviviality take centre stage.
A true emblem of Breton culture, the fest-noz (literally “night festival”) brings together locals in every town and village, from the largest cities to the smallest hamlets. People dance in circles or chains to the sound of binious (Breton bagpipes), bombards, fiddles and accordions, in a warm, intergenerational atmosphere. Recognised since 2012 as part of UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage, these joyous gatherings are at the very heart of Brittany’s cultural identity.
Each August, the Interceltic Festival of Lorient becomes the beating heart of the region. The largest global event celebrating Celtic cultures, it transforms the city for ten days into a vibrant crossroads of traditions from Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Asturias and Galicia. Pipe bands, concerts, craft markets, workshops and tastings fill the streets from dawn to late into the night, drawing over 750,000 visitors.
Another must-see event is Les Vieilles Charrues in Carhaix-Plouguer. Founded in 1992, it is now the biggest music festival in France. Every July, it welcomes tens of thousands of festivalgoers for four days of eclectic and joyful celebration. From rock and pop to French chanson and electronic music, international headliners like Sting, Arctic Monkeys and Angèle share the stage with emerging talents. The festival is also known for its strong local ties, sustainable practices and uniquely festive spirit.
Sailing and maritime adventure enthusiasts gather every four years in Saint-Malo for the legendary Route du Rhum, a solo transatlantic race linking Brittany to Guadeloupe. This elite competition attracts skippers from around the world and is preceded by an immense portside celebration. Other nautical highlights include the Solo Concarneau, shorter but equally demanding, and numerous traditional boat gatherings and regattas held throughout the year.
In August, the charming town of Pont-Aven hosts the Fête des Fleurs d’Ajonc, a celebration of floral beauty and artistic heritage. Flower-decked floats and traditional carriages parade through the streets to the sounds of Breton music, culminating in a colourful fest-noz at nightfall — an immersive experience into Brittany’s festive soul.
Summer in Brittany also shines with a beloved tradition: the fireworks of July 14th and August 15th. From beaches, ports, or old ramparts, locals and visitors gather for seaside picnics under the twilight sky, awaiting dazzling displays of light. Towns like Dinan, Quimper, and Vannes host spectacular pyrotechnic shows often paired with open-air concerts and festive dances.
Those passionate about traditional Breton culture will feel at home at the Saint-Loup Festival in Guingamp, a century-old celebration of Breton dance, regional costumes, folk music, and bagadoù competitions (Breton pipe bands). Meanwhile, the Festival du Chant de Marin in Paimpol pays tribute to seafaring songs, with concerts on the quayside, maritime exhibitions, and a gathering of vintage ships from across Europe.
Throughout the year, Brittany also hosts a wealth of festivals dedicated to cinema, street arts, theatre and comics. Highlights include Quai des Bulles, the renowned comics festival in Saint-Malo, and La Gacilly’s Photo Festival, entirely dedicated to environmental photography.
In short, Brittany reveals itself not only through its landscapes, but through its celebrations — both the everyday and the exceptional — always infused with a deep sense of music, tradition and togetherness.
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Ambiance Deauville is a coastal town house to rent in Deauville, on France’s Côte Fleurie. Just one kilometre from the beach in northwest France, it comprises an elegant main house overlooking the racecourse and an annexe. Relax in style at this haven of understated elegance close to the town centre, shops and restaurants. Perfect for a holiday in Deauville with family or friends.
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Ambiances Mer is a seaside rental villa, unique in its location on a small promontory opposite the Morlaix bay. This holiday rental for six people in Brittany is a safe haven at the water’s edge. All the living areas and its three bedrooms offer breathtaking views. The Channel comes to you and you just have to let it sweep you off your feet. You won't find anywhere better for an invigorating holiday with a lovely sea breeze!
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ChicVillas brings you Bretagne Ambiance Plage, a French holiday villa by the sea. This beachfront property on Brittany’s Emerald Coast comes with a beautiful panoramic view from dawn to dusk and is just steps away from the beach down the coastal path. Living is easy on the Côtes d'Armor!
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Enjoy a front row seat facing the sea at this lovely French beach house to rent in Finistère. Along with spectacular views of the ocean, Bretagne Bord de Plage has all the charm of an old family home and a large garden that stretches down to the shore. With all amenities, five bedrooms, and the beach on the doorstep, it’s the perfect choice for a family holiday.
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Bretagne Rêve de Plage is a holiday rental in Brittany. It's a Breton house built of granite stone in the Bay of Morlaix. Its huge garden overlooks the beach and coastal path. The view is splendid. You'll enjoy a waterfront stay in a magical setting.
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Brittany on the Beach is a charming villa available to rent for your holidays, located in the charming area of Brittany. Its strength is its seaside location, with private access to the beach. It’s a beautiful villa with a modern style and luxury fittings, in particular an outdoor jacuzzi with a view of the sea. It has been designed to accommodate 10 people, one to two families.
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Brittany Sea View Cottage is a seaside holiday rental in North Brittany, between Perros-Guirec and the Bay of Paimpol. This character property is close to the beach and forms a little corner of paradise for a family holiday on the beautiful, rugged coast of Brittany. Its granite exterior is warm, welcoming and inimitably Breton.
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Seaview chateau. Solidly located on its promontory, Castel Marmousets embraces its view of the Côte de Granit Rose (Pink Granite Coast). A Neo-Medieval-style château, it owes its name to the many sculpted wooden
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Built in the 18th century, Dream of Normandy is a charming property to rent in Normandy. A historic property, it welcomes you with a very subtle décor. A lot of charm and character is waiting for you in an emblematic area for a getaway full of romance. We invite you to experience something unique with your family or friends. This rental château with a swimming pool accommodates fifteen people in nine stylish bedrooms and interior and exterior communal areas which are both elegant and generous.
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Relax in the luxurious setting of this beautiful French chateau in Normandy, just an hour and a half from Paris. This exquisite rental chateau strikes the perfect balance between stately grandeur and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
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