Events & Festivals in Calvados, Normandy

A one of a kind art gallery.

This gallery, which used to be a cheese shop, has since been completely restored by a dedicated owner, Alain Forget. The resulting Galerie de Tourgéville is a wonderful place broken into three complementary sections: the exhibition gallery, with 5 halls; the café; and a restauraunt with an excellent menu. Enjoy a warm fire and game of pool in the winter, or lounge on the lawn in the summer…

Man's (true) best friend.

Since time immemorial, the mighty horse has been man's (true) best friend, helping him through struggles, labour, entertainment and sporting events.

The horse and carriage, in all their historic and modern glory, are celebrated in Deauville every year. Experience a convivial, fun and awe-inspiring demonstration of equine perfection.

The most noble of actors.

The mighty horse has for years reigned supreme on the silver screen - it has been the subject of films, documentaries, cartoons, etc. It is a photogenic, graceful and noble creature of great intelligence.

The Epona festival, created in 1993, awards the best screen production that involves horses, and as a whole showcases the equestrian world and its relevance in today's mediascape.

There are five competition categories for this award: News; Fiction; Reporting; Documentary; and TV Advertising. It is the only festival of its kind in Europe and boasts more than 25 participating countries.

Now film directors, publicists, producers and TV-channel directors will be coming to the Epona festival and hoping to make it to the top of the podium… They long to hold the famed "Horses of Arman" (Chevaux d'Arman), or even better, to recieve the ultimate prize, the Gold of the Horses of Arman.

Of course, they are all well aware of the media frenzy that will surround the victor…

A new and fierey form of footy!

Futsal is a recent spin-off of football that originated in Uruguay - the name derives from the Spanish term, futbol sala. Rules are simple: four players per team plus a goalie, the field is delimited by lines (unlike indoor soccer which has walls that can be used for rebounds) - highest score by the end of the game wins. Experience an exciting new sport, latino-style.

Swimsuit collection, 1930 - Today.

This summer, the Deauville esplanade (the famed Planches) will be hosting an outdoor photography exhibition for the first time ever. 40 photographs and drawings, courtesy of Vogue magazine archives, will be on display - the exhibition as a whole retraces 70 years of summer fashion and beach-wear.

Deauville, with its 1920s beach resort architecture, sumptuous decor and lighting, is a major hotspot for fashion photography. It is only natural that Les Planches, a year-round prestigious red-carpet, should frame this fascinating expo.

Homage.

This exhibition is not for the faint of heart… Christophe Miralles has set up this event as an homage to the victims of terrorist attacks in London and Madrid.

His art lies between painting and sculpture. The spectator wanders amidst a forest of faceless beings but also vividly colourful canvases, a stark contrast that reflects a confrontation, a cohabitation of life and death.

Going once, going twice, and SOLD!

Passionate collectors and other curious persons, lend me your ears: a grand auction for furniture, artwork and paintings is is scheduled to take place at the Artcurial in Deauville.

Items on auction will be showcased before bidding starts. This auction will be a great opportunity to find that original decorative piece that you've been hunting for all these years…

Bargain hunt once a month!

For the 8th year in a row, second-hand markets will be organised every 3rd Sunday of the month (except December) at the central marketplace in Mollay-Littry.

You'll be able to find just about anything imaginable: furniture, linen, CDs, books, clothes, tools, toys, posters, jewels, trinkets, car parts, office supplies, and so much more… Exhibitors are both amateur and professional, but all will welcome you with a smile and a helpful hand.

A spectacular event

After an excellent first edition on the Deauville-Clairefontaine racetrack, R.I.D.E. Normandy is back once again to give you the best of horse-riding and equestrian sports.

The competition will be in the original three disciplines: show jumping, eventing and 4-horse carriage racing.

The Normandy-Quebec connection.

What does Normandy have in common with the history of Quebec?

Extensive waves of immigrants in the 17th century for one thing, but another connecting point exists, much closer to our time. The Second World War was an opportunity for these children of France to return to defend their motherland…

This is why the Juno Beach Centre is organising a temporary exhibition this year to commemorate the 400th anniversary of the foundation of Quebec. The thematic aim of the event is to shed light on the common history that Normandy and Quebec share - it is an homage to the soldiers of Normand origin among the troops who were there on D-Day, who fought the Battle of Normandy with Canadian forces.

The title is a fitting, poetic reference to the relation these soldiers had to the motherland - Partis, revenus...

Fragile, but worthwhile art.

This fascinating exhibition deals with the history of porcelain production in Bayeux, some of the highest quality in the world!

The Porcelaine de Bayeux expo is a sort of grand retrospective based on the immense collections of Michel J. Morlent and Ginette Aulombard-Morlent. Expect to see some magnificent pieces!

This 8th edition of the record market is heaven for any collector: vinyls, CDs (new, second-hand or collectible), movies, photos, magazines, postcards, stamps, coins, posters, advertising, old toys… Whatever it is you pile up in your house, you can come to Viré, fill a basket, and pile up some more!

The Horse Flea market goes full gallop…

The Brocantelle du Cheval is back on the paddock for another edition, having developed a real reputation in Normandy and beyond.

Shoppers and bargain-hunters will find just about everything imaginable to do with horses, riding, dressage, grooming, etc. From young girls who want a poney to museums that are looking for that final piece to complete a collection, and of course horse-lovers looking for a book or painting… Anyone who knows anything about horses will know that this is the place to find great bargains.

A very European Rally

A top event for both the city of Deauville and the world of automobile collectors, the Paris-Deauville rally hasn't stopping growing or getting better since its creation in 1966. Thanks to the wide support of various sponsors, it has become a must for both amateur and professional collectors.

The event will have a national following, with approximately 40-60 teams from throughout France, but the event is international in scope, with the presence of English, Dutch, Belgian, German and Swiss teams. In all 10 nationalities will be represented.

Ford, Bentley, Rolls-Royce, Jaguar…this is an opportunity to come out and see some of the most beautiful and exquisite models to have ever rolled off of the assembly line. What's more the cars will be on display in all their sleek, shiny and roaring glory, further illuminated by the exquisite backdrop that is Deauville.

Visitors will be able to see some of the most prestigious pre-war models; Paris-Deauville can boast some of the top collectors and vintage traders in the whole of Europe. For some this event will be a trip back in time, a return to the elegance of pre-war races that took place in some of the country's most prestigious beach resorts.

Don't lost your compass.

Good times are just growing on trees in Bayeux's Labyrinth. Take a tour of the gardens and enjoy a cultural and educational experience among friends, young and old, or with the whole family. Remember to pack some water and snacks, because this will be a two-hour tour where you might, and probably will, get side-tracked or completely lost.

Do not dispair, visitors are given a map upon entry and can always check the book when they take a wrong turn again, and again…

Normady goes Goth-style…

This exhibition was timed for the inauguration of the new Salles des Ramparts ("Ramparts Hall") of the Normandy museum. "Chefs-d'œuvre du Gothique en Normandie" is dedicated to Gothic art in Normandy, and in particular local art production as can be found ornamenting Medieval monuments.

This relatively unknown period will be revealed to the public thanks to decorative sculptures and monuments throughout the five counties of the Normandy region. This exhibition will represent the largest concentration of Normandy art and sculpture in history.

Short and sweet!

The famed Off-Courts festival in Trouville-sur-Mer is dedicated to short films, animation and video productions. The productions are regional, national and international in scope.

This festival brings you a wide range of films to the delight of an ever-growing audience. You might be seeing an obscure production by one of the "greats" of the next decade.

One of the strong points of this events is the friendly and easygoing atmosphere which becomes outright festive during concerts, soirées and exhibitions… The event has gained a serious reputation over time and now is linked to other short film festivals (Victoriaville, Montreal, Clermont-Ferrand…).

Just around the château corner…

These works are an illustration of the evolution of sculpture. Each is a step in the progress of modern and contemporary sculpture either because of aesthetic choices, or because of the materials used. These works are obviously an important addition the the museum's collections, but more importantly they represent an arresting scene, an artistic surprise for the wanderers and visitors passing by…

A tour you won't soon forget.

The museum will be organising a special tour for the opening of the Hall of Ramparts. The tour will explore a forge, a 14th-century house, and a mysterious underground network.

Be sure to visit the belvedere, from which there is a unique view of the ducal palace and dungeon… To get there, you have to find the secret lift that runs up the Medieval tower.

10 tons of scallops!

For this edition of the Scallop Festival, the theme will be "Quebec", with Fabienne Thibeault who will be the event sponsor.

Quebecois crafts, a special exhibition, cooking demonstrations, gastronomic delights (Tire sur la neige, a lollipop made from frozen maple syrup), a Quebec-style ball, concerts… With so many activities, you won't know what to do first!

As the Coquille St-Jacques is the heart of this festive event, there will be no less than 10 tons of scallops on sale, fresh-caught in Honfleur, Trouville or Dives.

Man's greatest conquest…

Witness a feast dedicated to the most noble of animals, the proud and powerful Equus Caballus.

Among other events, participants of the International Carriage Racing tournament will be racing down the streets and taking part in various competitions for the occasion - don't miss out on this impressive performance.

Every year in October, the Calvados region celebrates "man's greatest conquest: the horse". With over 1 400 stud farms, countless horse-riding centres and 8 race-tracks, the Calvados region is indeed the most representative of this culture and sport. 2 whole weeks of equine-related events and activities… Not to miss!

Graphic deconstruction.

Maurice Douard, artist of international repute, will be presenting a collection of his works as part of the Solitaires ("Loners") exhibition. Visitors will discover a world of art that bespeaks a troubled life, evocations of hard experiences but also a hint of warmth and affection.

Douard's painted characters are fragmented and then reassembled. The play of light in each work ultimately leads to a common trait in all of his creations: a moment of graphic deconstruction…

Pre-Columbian treasures…

From the ancient Chinese Empire to the Kingdom of Cusco… The international Fair in Caen crosses the planet to bring you the mysteries of ancient civilisations.

After Imperial China, the 2008 edition will be dedicated to the treasures of the Incas - the Machu Pucchu, the Titicaca Lake and the mysterious El Dorado…

Walking through mindscapes.

Myriam Mechita, who boasts an Aggregation in plastic arts, is forever focused on her work.

Her latest installation, "Entrer dans la nuit de la nuit (i’m an animal)", is peopled with singular, unusual elements. Highly original, her material echoes current events. Pearls, tapestries, drawings, sculptures, screenings… Her work is a weave of art forms, a multi-medium landscape that shocks, interests and draws people in.

A glamourous festival for film buffs…

Since its beginnings in 1975, some of the world's greatest movie stars have left their footprints on the red carpet of the The Deauville American Film Festival: Robin Williams, Lauren Bacall, Tom Hanks, Michael Douglas, Sharon Stone, Clint Eastwood, Johnny Depp, Brad Pitt, Matt Damon, Al Pacino, Tom Cruise, Julia Roberts, Steven Spielberg, Morgan Freeman... For autograph-collectors and fanatical fans, Deauville's esplanade becomes a rich hunting ground in the summer.

Only American productions are presented at the Festival du cinéma américain de Deauville. Though more low-key and less flashy than its big brother, the Cannes film festival, Deauville remains a major event with its fair share of international stars. This year's program is particularly eclectic with studio productions, independent films, tributes, documentaries and shorts.

From swing to rhythm and blues…

From swing to rhythm and blues and even some choreographed street dance…the best music and the best dancers find their place in a succession of different sets presenting acrobatics, vocals, magic and dance.

To bring out the very best response in the audience, the troop of artists and magicians pull out all the stops: virtuosity, energy, seduction, glamour, etc.

This is a review that is suitable for families, offering everyone an evening of spectacular entertainment.

Thirsting for the deep blue…

A cool sea-breeze rich with laughter and joy will be coursing through the Caen harbour for this exciting event in the heart of the city. The marina is a haven for leisure sailing and holiday atmosphere, with a huge selection of pubs, bars, clubs cafés and restaurants.

The famed Fête du Port de Caen boasts a rich schedule of events to suit all tastes! Everyone is included!

The festival features some great sport activities and nautical initiations (row boats, kayaks…), as well as a great artisan and art centre on the Vendeuvre bank and various performances in the evening, topped with a great firework show over the water.

Annual european heritage days

Every year, the general public is invited to visit public buildings, museums, chateaux, and private homes that are usually off limits or charge a hefty entry rate. Heritage Days are special because for the occasion they will all be free!

Two days of open-house rules, the perfect opportunity to discover the riches of French heritage that are normally kept under lock and key from prying eyes!

Painters of tomorrow.

After some fascinating themes in the previous editions ("Staircases in Trouville"; "Childhood impressions in Trouville") which had inspired numerous artists, this year the cultural centre's choice of theme is "Trouville in the style of…"

The idea is not to copy a famous work but to imitate a particular painter's style, technique or overall character in order to create a landscape piece depicting Trouville. The work can be on canvas or any other format, and with whatever tools the artist sees fit (watercolour, gouache, pastel…).

The work judged the finest will be awarded a prize during a special ceremony on September 20th.

A story to commemorate the fallen.

This expo will be telling a story. The story of the World Trade Center; of an attack in 2001; of firemen and rescue workers and construction workers; of a police force and hospital workers; of the 2 700 people who lost their lives; and finally of the response that these events brought about…

These powerful themes are the very soul of this exhibition built on a collection of personal objects, pictures, films, testimonies and remains found amidst a mountain of rubble. The tale of rescue operations will be told through various things… Things that we all use in everyday life, objects, fragments, debris, a crooked steering wheel, a souvenir…

Organised by the Lisieux tourism office and the Pays d'art et d'histoire du Pays d'Auge, these guided tours last approximately 1hr30mins. Guides are licensed by the Ministry of Culture.

A scent and a story.

This exhibition, signed Véronique Sablery, may seem rather unfocused and varied. The central theme will be perfume as a potent symbol in Saint Marie Madeleine iconography, but the artwork itself covers a range of styles and mediums.

The exhibition will display a collection of photographs, engravings and other interesting formats, all related to the life story of the saint.

On your marks…

This famed marathon is a 21,1km race straight from Honfleur to le Havre which boasts a national label and is thus accounted for in other major competitions.

Participants will be leaving Honfleur, passing across the Pont de Normandie (a technological masterpiece) and then across the Seine estuary before entering Le Havre harbour, then on to the town centre and shoreline, and arriving finally at the town hall.

Fresh produce!

The ID Fruits orchards at Villiers-le-Sec open their gates to the public in June and July from Monday to Friday between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m..
Get your fresh cherries here!
From October to April, pears and apples are on sale.

A sanctuary made of silica.

10km from Arromanches, the Juno Beach Centre is the only Canadian museum on the Normandy Landings. It retraces the history of Canada during the Second World War and presents a picture of Canada today (films, interactive terminals, sound archives, collections, etc.). The Juno Beach Centre is also the only museum offering guided tours of the beach and its remains of the Atlantic Wall.

Contemporary art with a modern feel.

Within its outer walls, thanks to the diversity of backdrops available, the chateau offers a splendid setting for this first series of five sculptures, three modern and two contemporary, launching this ambitious project: Rodin's Walking Man on a Column, Bourdelle's Grand Guerrier (the warrior), Giacometto's Grande Femme (tall woman), Sans Titre (untitled) by Damien Cabanes (1999), coloured resin, and One Man, Nine Animals.

The exhibition is an invitation to discovery and surprise, open to all walkers and visitors.

An architectural monument.

Built in 1631 to plans drawn up by architect François Mansart, the Château de Balleroy is part of one of the first town-planning schemes ever executed in France, and that was to inspire Versailles.
In 1975, the first Balloon Museum was founded by Malcolm S. Forbes in one of the former stable buildings.
The 17th century dovecote and the grounds are also not to be missed.

Panorama of the Liberation.

At Arromanches 360, you are at the very heart of things. An outstanding film entitled Le Prix de la Liberté, (The Price of freedom) is projected onto 9 screens in a circular room.
Combining images of the Landings in 1944 and scenes of Normandy today, this 360° cinema will be an unforgettable experience.

The Longest Day.

A short distance from the beaches of the Normandy Landings, the Battle of Normandy memorial museum in Bayeux, the first town to be liberated on the morning of 7 June 1944, presents a unique and exhaustive picture of the fighting that took place on Norman soil between 7 June and 29 August 1944.
The museum displays were updated in 2006 and now alternate a classic historical account with themed sections, a new 25-minute archive film and presentations of Second World War equipment and uniforms illustrating the historical account. The new presentation gives a better understanding of the enormous war effort made in the course of this battle to win back freedom in Europe.

A bike, my kingdom for a bike!

March 23rd 2008 is the inauguration date for the new self-service bicycle-rental system organised by the Caen town hall: V'eol.
With over 40 parking stations throughout the city, a new transport system is available for locals and tourists alike. The service will be at your disposal 24/7, forever changing the workings of inner-city transportation. Not only will it reduce pollution, but users will be getting fitter at every ride!

V'eol parking stations are positioned throughout the city.

Nature disciplined by reason.

Magnificent in itself, the Château de Brécy can also boast 17th century Italianate gardens magnificently laid out in terraces, culminating in ornamental wrought-iron gates by Isaac Geslin that seem to open onto empty sky.
Numerous sculptures and flower beds framed in embroidery-patterned box borders in the style of Claude Mollet make this a truly unique sight.

Entrancing in its beauty and serenity.

It is to the Benedictine monks of the Middle Ages and the Classical period that Caen owes the majesty of its Town Hall, which occupies the former abbey of Saint-Etienne, known as the Abbaye-aux-Hommes. And, of course, to William the Conqueror who built the castle and, with his wife Matilda, founded the two abbeys that dominate the landscape.

In honour of a great man.

It is in the splendid Renaissance "Logis du Gouverneur" (late 15th century), just 100 metres from the Sous-Prefecture that became the seat of the first authorities to assume control of a newly-liberated France in 1944, that a record is kept of the five key encounters between General de Gaulle and Bayeux.
Two of these encounters have left their mark on French history: 14 June 1944 and 16 June 1946. The five encounters are recalled in a collection of numerous archive documents, both printed and photographic, in film footage from the period and of objects that once belonged to the General.

Mediaeval Bayeux.

The ancient historic centre of Bayeux has remained entirely mediaeval in its structure. Completely spared by the Allied bombardments of 1944, it proudly displays an extraordinary architectural heritage.
Solemnly consecrated on 14 July 1077, in the presence of William, Duke of Normandy and King of England, the cathedral underwent further expansion and embellishment from the 13th to the 15th century.

Immerse yourself in the atmosphere.

In the course of your visit, you will learn all about the history of the building of the artificial Mulberry harbour that was the key to the success of the Battle of Normandy.
The museum also presents the various phases of the Allied landings, from the design of the artificial harbour known as Port Winston to the liberation of the coast (mechanical models, diorama, video, etc.), plus screenings of British Admiralty archive film footage of the construction and operation of the Mulberry harbours.

Time-honoured knowhow.

The workshop exists to safeguard the knowhow handed down by the lace-makers of Bayeux from the 17th century.
The Conservatoire, a place to learn and perfect lace-making skills, keeps alive the technique of bobbin lace making.
Year-round exhibition, events and articles for sale.

From apples to cider.

Since 1932, the Cidrerie Marcel Viard has been producing traditional cider from local Norman cider apples. See how "Bayeux" cider is made: the orchard, the cellars, the packing room. The cider farm was the first to be liberated in France in June 1944.
It was designated a primary military target, to ensure supplies needed for the freshly-landed British troops.

Porcelain and old lace.

The Hôtel du Doyen presents part of the artistic and historical collections of the Musée Baron Gérard (porcelain and Bayeux lace, paintings) in the form of temporary exhibitions.
Admission is free on presentation of the ticket to the Tapestry Museum.