Festival season is fast approaching in France, when music concerts, food fests, and art extravaganzas make the summer one long party. Not to miss in Bordeaux is the Wine Festival (Bordeaux Fête le Vin), which is the largest of its kind in Europe.
Taking place from Thursday, June 26th to Sunday, 29th June 2014, the festival’s 9th edition will attract half a million visitors to the banks of the Garonne river for tastings, seminars, art events, film screenings of Hollywood classics, and, bien sûr, a sound and light festival. Don’t miss the Jardin des Arts, where street artists will create works of art out of enormous wine bottles.
A wine route will be set up along the Port of the Moon, a UNESCO World Heritage site, which visitors can access with a Tasting Pass. (On tap? Some 80 Bordeaux and Aquitaine appellations.) For more information, visit www.bordeaux-fete-le-vin.com
While you’re in Bordeaux, don’t miss the rooftop terrace at the Grand Hôtel de Bordeaux & Spa. Called Night Beach, the happening lounge is the place to be in the summer months. With views over the Opera House and the historic city center, Night Beach has a sultry ambiance and custom cocktails. During the World Cup, Night Beach will be decorated in Brazil’s national colors and the soundtrack will focus on Samba and Batucada.
Photo of the Bordeaux Wine Festival via Rendez-vous en France