The festivals and celebrations that shape the year in the Pyrénées-Orientales, from Holy Week to September. Some 2027 dates are already announced; the others are shown at their usual time of year. Always check with the organisers before you book.
Since 1416, the penitents of the Sanch brotherhood, robed in red and black, have walked through the historic centre carrying the 'misteris' of the Passion. It leaves the Saint-Jacques church at 3pm and lasts about three hours. In the evening there are night processions in Collioure and Arles-sur-Tech. The tradition is listed as French intangible cultural heritage.
On the last weekend of May, the town known as the cherry capital celebrates its fruit: a big market of Vallespir growers, bandas parades, sardana dancing and Catalan traditions. Free entry.
Every 23 June, the flame rekindled on the summit of the Canigou is carried down to Catalan villages to light the Saint-Jean bonfires. In Perpignan the celebrations centre on the Castillet. Collioure, Céret, Vernet-les-Bains and many villages have their own fires.
One of the big contemporary music festivals in the south of France, right by the sea at the Jardins du Lydia. The 2027 line-up will be announced over the coming months.
A chamber music festival founded in 1950 by the cellist Pablo Casals, with concerts at the abbey of Saint-Michel-de-Cuxa and in churches around the Conflent. In 2026 it ran from 28 July to 8 August.
Collioure's patron saint festival, celebrated since 1701. On 16 August the relics are carried by sea on Catalan boats, followed by sardana dancing and a big firework display over the bay. Arrive early and book accommodation well ahead.
The major international photojournalism festival, held in Perpignan since 1989: around twenty free exhibitions in historic buildings across the town centre. In 2026 it ran from 29 August to 13 September.
Running a campsite, hotel or rental? Your guests ask about these events as soon as they arrive. The Loca digital tourist guide answers them in their own language, and you can add your own events too. Discover Loca for your business →