At Christmas, traditional nativity plays are held in churches and there are fairs and markets throughout France. In the Alps and the Pyrenees, and even the Vosges and Massif Central, the ski-slopes are crowded. In Flanders and Nice, carnivals take place before Lent.
- Men's International Skiing Competition (mid-Dec), Val d'Isère.
- Most important skiing competition of the year.
- Château de Thoiry Music Festival (all year), concerts of every kind of music.
- Abbaye de Fontevraud Season of Music (until Jun).
- Monte-Carlo Rally (usually mid-Jan).
- Limoux Carnival (until Mar).
- Street festival held since the Middle Ages.
Découvertes (firstweek), Grand Palais.
International art show for new artists.
Lemon Festival (mid-Feb-Mar), Menton.
Nice Carnival and the Battle of flowers (late Feb-early Mar).
International Jazz Festival (mid-end Feb), Cannes.
 France through the year |
Spring |
Autumn |
Summer |
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Culture and heritage | 
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