What to discover in Aix-Marseille Provence this weekend from April 25 to 27?

The weekend of April 25 to 27 promises to be rich in discoveries and various activities in the Aix-Marseille Provence region. Whether you are a culture enthusiast, a nature lover, or looking for friendly moments with family or friends, the metropolitan area offers an enticing program. Exhibitions, concerts, festivals, and civic initiatives will shape these three days, with a particular nod to the environment through events such as the Marseille Carnival, the Clean the South operation, and many other initiatives to discover.

Cultural events not to be missed in Marseille

Marseille, the Phocaean city, is brimming with cultural activities to enjoy, especially during this weekend. The famous Marseille Carnival is back in force at the Old Port for its 35th edition, celebrating the beauty of our blue planet. Get ready to admire a festive procession where the colors of the sky and ocean intertwine, highlighting iconic animals such as the whale or the polar bear, alongside artists, musicians, and dancers who will bring the city center to life.

The program of the Marseille Carnival

The Carnival will feature a myriad of activities throughout the day. Here’s a glimpse of the program:

• Makeup Stand: from 1:30 PM to 3:30 PM at Bargemon Square.
• Festive Symphony: in front of the Town Hall at 2:45 PM.
• Aerial Circus Show: on the Brotherhood quay to amaze young and old.
• Parade: departure at 2:30 PM from the Théâtre de la Criée, for a parade to the Town Hall.

Meanwhile, lovers of visual arts can head to the Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean, which is hosting an immersive exhibition on cultural exchanges in the Mediterranean. It’s a great opportunity to dive into history and appreciate the cultural diversity of our region.

Activities for the whole family

This weekend, families will not be left out. The City of Marseille is also organizing workshops and activities throughout the days, allowing the younger audience to engage with art and the environment. Various workshops ranging from visual art to music are available for registration, offering a total immersion in the creative world. These activities will be enhanced by several temporary exhibitions and outdoor performances.

Ecological Commitment: Clean the South Days

This spring edition of the weekend is also an opportunity to participate in the Clean the South operation, which mobilizes citizens around environmental preservation. Concerned about the pollution of our natural spaces, residents are invited to join this large waste collection day set for Saturday, April 26.

Participation details

To participate in this initiative, you can go to one of the 400 collection points scattered throughout the region. Organizers provide a collection kit to volunteers who wish to get involved. This year’s collection points involve both municipalities and local associations, thus creating a community spirit. In 2024, more than 20,000 volunteers contributed to this movement, which allowed for the collection of over 85 tons of waste. The goal is to reach 100 tons this year.

• Date: April 26
• Registration: via the website nettoyons.maregionsud.fr
• Benefits: Awareness of environmental preservation

In addition to this collective commitment, fun activities will be offered to make this event friendly. The idea is not only to collect waste but also to strengthen the bonds between residents of the same city.

Scent Discoveries at the Scent Meetings in Istres

For those who wish to awaken their senses, do not miss the Scent Meetings taking place for the third time at the Château des Baumes in Istres. This unique event dedicated to the world of perfume honors this year the tradition of Japanese perfume.

Workshops and activities

Visitors will have the opportunity to discover a multitude of activities around perfume:

• Perfume Creation Workshops: Become an apprentice perfumer and create a custom fragrance for €25 per person.
• Conferences: Experts will share their knowledge, including the origins of scents.
• Garden Visits: Enjoy olfactory meditation amidst the castle gardens.

This sensory journey is enhanced by artistic installations such as olfactororigami, works of art at the intersection of origami and olfaction. It is a unique opportunity to discover the link between fragrance and art, enveloped in a verdant setting.

The Easter Festival in Aix-en-Provence: Music and Emotion

The Easter Festival in Aix-en-Provence is a must-see and runs until April 27. This weekend will mark the closing of an event rich in concerts and talents of classical music.

Highlights of the festival

For the last part of the festival, several significant concerts will take place:

• Belcea Quartet: Concert at Darius Milhaud Conservatory, exploring works by Mozart and Beethoven.
• Renaud Capuçon accompanied by Zep: A unique duo for an original show where drawing and music will be intimately intertwined.
• Carte Blanche to Renaud Capuçon: Highlighting the violin through iconic pieces conducted by the Luxembourg Philharmonic Orchestra.

This festival is a perfect opportunity to discover promising artists as well as timeless masterpieces in the splendid settings of the city of Aix.

Book your tickets!

To attend these concerts, it is recommended to book your tickets in advance. Visit the website of Aix-en-Provence Tourism for all the necessary information on the program and to book your spots.

The Cycling Routes Festival in Vaucluse

To end this weekend beautifully, head to the Luberon for the big cycling routes festival on Sunday, April 27. This day is dedicated to cyclists, offering the opportunity to ride through breathtaking scenery while participating in a series of activities.

Activities for everyone

The festivities will include various activities for all ages. Here’s what to expect:

• Treasure Hunt: A big treasure hunt along the cycling route.
• Repair Workshops: Sessions to learn how to maintain your bicycle.
• BMX Demonstrations: Breathtaking shows for thrill-seekers.

Step villages, along with the presence of local producers, will enrich this friendly festival. A great opportunity to enjoy spring in an exceptional natural setting.

These events are an opportunity to gather with family or friends, enjoy the natural beauty of the region, and support actions in favor of the environment. Thus, this weekend from April 25 to 27 in Aix-Marseille Provence promises to enrich your culture, community spirit, and commitment to the environment.