The Sights and Sounds of Cannes’ Summer Festival Season

24 June 2015

The many terracotta topped towns of the French Riviera are famous for hosting some of the most exclusive events and festivals in the world, but none as much as Cannes. This July, the city’s warm summer air is set to fill with both the harmonious sound of strings and thunderous beats as its palm-tree lined beaches and picturesque streets host an array of festivals. If you’re planning a fun-filled getaway to Cannes, check out our guide to an exciting month ahead.

Suquet Music Nights

Since 1975, ‘Musical Nights du Suquet’ has offered the opportunity to enjoy live classical performances while admiring the magnificent backdrop of Cannes’ old town each summer. Under the shadows of a grand 16th century church and remains of a medieval castle, this year’s outstanding 6 night programme will begin with Baroque music from London’s Florilegium on the 18th of July.

Award-winning and renowned performers will come together in pairs to offer outstanding performances, from French violinist Laurent Korcia and concert pianist Julia Siciliano, to soprano Sophie Marin-Degor and pianist François-René Duchâble. While those in search of something a little more modern can look forward to local rock group Human Teorema and Italian group Mascarimirì, who fuse punk and dub with traditional Salento music. Find the full line-up here and enjoy an atmospheric night out in the historic centre of Cannes.  

Les Plages Electroniques

In a completely different stratosphere when it comes to music genres, the sandy shore line of La Croisette will be hosting a series of unmissable events for electronic music fans. Expect booming bass lines and soulful sounds, all showcased next to the glistening Mediterranean at Les Plages Electroniques.

The key date in July will be Friday the 17th, when thousands will gather to dance to Deep House beats, with acts introduced by French DJ and producer Anthony Georges Patrice. Voted the number one DJs of 2014 by Mixmag, New Yorkers The Martinez Brothers will be joined by Circoloco resident Davide Squillace, before founder of the Moon Harbour label, Matthias Tanzmann, heads up the after party at ultra-sleek The Marches. Click here for the full calendar of events and enjoy the atmosphere of Ibiza in the chic surroundings of Cannes this summer.

Monte-Carlo Sporting Summer Festival

Those willing to travel a little further for entertainment will be royally rewarded at the Monte-Carlo Sporting Summer Festival. Despite the word ‘sporting’ in the title, this event is all about music and will offer the chance to catch exclusive performances from world-class acts in the heart of Monaco. With past programmes featuring the likes of Elton John, Stevie Wonder and Joséphine Baker, tickets for this annual event are likely to sell fast!

With its vast windows overlooking the principality and retractable roof, the impressive surroundings of Salle des Étoiles are perfect for hosting an array of international stars this summer including Santana, Johnny Hallyday, George Ezra, Anastacia and Enrique Iglesias. Highlights during July begin with an evening of duets between Tony Bennett and Lady Gaga on the 4th, and continue with a rock ‘n’ roll performance from Lenny Kravitz on the 8th before Sting takes centre stage on the 25th. French comedians Florence Foresti  and Gad Elmaleh will also be providing their unique sense of humour, the latter in support of the Fights Aids Monaco Night. Find the full, star-studded line-up here.

The Festival of Pyrotechnic Art Cannes

Though they’ll be orchestrated in time to music, displays at the International Cannes Fireworks Festival will be offering much more of a visual experience than audio. Four companies will be filling the skies above the bay of Cannes with extraordinary firework displays in order to compete for both the audience’s prize and the coveted Silver Vestal.  

Three of these competitors will be demonstrating their pyrotechnic know-how during July; Baku Firework Group from Azerbaijan, Surex from Poland and Intermede from France. Each will deliver a minimum 25 minute display on various themes, from the ‘Caspian Sea Diamond’ to ‘Violence and Passion’, with fireworks shooting out from three offshore barges and up to 10 additional firing ramps. Join 400,000 spectators each night to watch the horizon light up and admire the glittering reflections, before casting your vote for your favourite display here.

With an event to suit every taste, a sun-soaked escape to Cannes this July will deliver an outstanding experience from start to finish. Located just 20 minutes from the beach and boasting a stunning outdoor pool and free Wi-Fi, the four-star Amarante Cannes offers the perfect luxury base to enjoy this summer’s festivals. Click here to find the latest offers and packages.