Events in the Lot et Garonne
In order to give you, our guests, an idea of ‘What’s Going On’, in the area around Valmar, we have put together a list of upcoming events, such as musical, cultural, art, exhibitions, sporting events and others.
Check back here regularly to see new additions and to see if there’s anything you fancy !
8th to 10th June 2012
At Parc La Filhole, Rue de Filhole, Marmande, Lot et Garonne, South West france, ‘Garorock’ is a three day contemporary music festival, featuring 40 different bands who will be performing live on three seperate stages – sounds like a blast !
3rd June 20102
A Great day of horse riding and walking, followed by a meal, at Hautefage Tower, Borg, Lot-et-Garonne, South West France (South of Villeneuve-sur-lot.) Organized by ‘Country Roads’. For further Information and booking Tel 0033 (0)680 551 957
2nd June 2012
The Second Festival of Humour at 47520 -Le Passage d’Agen, in Agen, Lot et Garonne.
Agen celebrates everything funny during a night of hilarious comedy
12th May 2012
Museum Night – Agen Lot et Garonne.
Visit the museum of fine arts at Agen, Lot et Garonne – by night.
2nd - 26th May 2012
‘Landscapes of the Lot et Garonne’ – Photographic exhibition at the Municipal Media Centre at Nerac, Lot et Garonne. As part of their studies, the students of the medical Institute present their work on the subject of ‘Landscapes of the Lot et Garonne’.
15th March to 21st April 2012
At the Andre Malraux Cultural centre at Agen – Collective exhibition of paintings, sculpture and photographs
16th March 2012
At ‘Place Dessenheim’ at Cocumont, Lot et garonne, a new Show by comedian Sebastien Laffargue. Sebastian has fun discussing our quirks and faults, add to that a healthy dose of self-mockery and you get a 90 minute show of laughter for all ages.
9th February 2012
Thursday from 8.30pm at the Euskal Taberna, 17 Avenue du General de Gaulle 47000, Agen, Lot et garonne – a Barbecue Basque Karaoke
28th April 2011
19 May 2011
16 June 2011
An alternative night of song and music.
On a regular basis the locals of Lot et Garonne meet for ‘Cafe slam’. A rendez-vous at the bar ‘Le Florida’, 95 boulevard Carnot, 47000 Agen, Lot et Garonne, for a jam session is what is on offer. Advertised as “For all poets, comedians, rappers, storytellers, singers and amateur slam, go to the cafe culture of Florida !
So take your own guitar along, or just enjoy watching the locals strutting their stuff !
18th June 2011
19th Agen Festival of Dance
Held each year at the Cour Washington, Agen, Lot et Garonne, this festival of live dance showcases 100 dance groups, from both the amateur and professional arena, including national and international artists.
16th June to 16th July 2011
‘Glossy coffee’ A photographic exhibition to be held at the Andre Malraux Cultural Centre on the Rue Ledru Rollin at Agen. The exhibits are presented by local apprentices of the Chamber of Trades and Crafts of the Lot-et-Garonne and the exhibition includes a competition between the exhibitors… something a little different if you are interested in photography !
15th April 2011
At ‘La Tannerie’ bar, 20 rue Cajarc, Agen, Lot et Garonne, cheekie jazz trumpeter Alfie Ryner and his band ‘strike up’ with their own energetic and irrepressible style of jazz.
8th February to 30th July 2011
Art exhibition at renowned restaurant ‘La Toque Blanche’ at Pujols, Lot et Garonne, by international artist Corinne Vilcaz. Paintings in oils and watercolors, in a contemporary figurative style. Vilcaz is a locally born artist, who has exhibited throughout France and the USA.
August 2010
For two days, the Bastide town of Monflanquin’s tiny population of 800 inhabitants swells to around 20,000 as the walled medieval city hosts an atmospheric festival, Les Journées Médiévales, in celebration of its glory days in the Middle Ages.
Enjoy a pint in the “medieval” tavern, join in the street parties, watch films evoking medieval times and some spectacular falconry, jousting and fireworks. Great fun for all the family.
Spectacle de la Bastide de Monflanquin
Each Tuesday throughout July and August, there is the “Spectacle de la Bastide de Monflanquin”, commencing around 9pm
Evening festivities in Monflanquin, another Bastide village designated as one of “Les plus beaux villages de France” and accompanied by “Janouille la Fripouille”, a local folklore character, dressed in a medieval ‘jester’ type costume.
“Janouille la Fripouille” is also the character that will take you on a ‘poetic and humourous’ guided tour of the sights of Monflanquin by day and tells stories of its fascinating and animated history.
Sat 5th & Sun 6th July 2010
A medieval weekend at the Chateau de Bonaguil. Join in the party atmosphere and enjoy activities ranging from Medieval cookery, music, jousting, lots of exhibitions and more. Great fun for the whole family.
July 2010
Prune-pit Spitters Festival (Yes you did read that correctly !)
The Lot et Garonne is renowned for its fruit produce and it’s prunes in particular. So don’t be surprised to hear that there is actually an annual event that takes place in the nearest small town to your holiday accommodation – Sainte Livrade-sur-lot.
Each year the 6,000 + inhabitants of the town, gather together to compete in the art of spitting prune stones.
Around 100 participants take part and there are separate competitions for adults and children.
So if you don’t fancy projecting the stones of these delicious fruit yourself, why not turn up to watch anyway. As always the event is turned into a joyous festival. (And it’s only a 5 minute drive from Valmar Gite).
17th July 09
‘Primero la Gente’ – A rock - Reggae -Ska group, performing at ‘Place de l’Hotel de Ville’ in the small village of Laroque Timbaut in the Lot et Garonne. A rhythmic sound, explosive brass section, shake it all to the ska sauce. Reggae or rock is a spicy dish that is eaten at will ! Live music from 10pm onwards – entry is free.
26th June 09
Reggae concert at ‘La Tannerie’ bar, Agen, Lot et Garonne. Influenced by soul, funk or rock, ‘Highlights’ is composed of five local musicians who draw their inspiration from the roots of reggae of the 70s.
With a taste for composition, the group currently has fifteen original titles delivering a simple message of love and unity!
20th June 09
Fête de la musique. Music festival at Avenue Michel Ricard (Le Passage d’Agen) in the town of Agen. Free entry to this festival of music, which shows off local musicians and amateur groups.
1st May to 7th June 09
Exhibition of Photography at the Musée de Gajac at ‘La Rue des Jardins’, Villeneuve-sur-Lot, Lot et Garonne. The exhibition runs from 1st May to 7th June. The Museum occupies the site of a majestic old mill located on the banks of the river in the heart of Villeneuve-sur-Lot. It houses an important collection of art and this exhibition of photography is one of numerous exhibitions held at the museum throughout the year.
10th May 09
The Orchestre de chambre de l’Ecole de Musique de la CCV, invite you to an evening of classical music, with the enphasis on Léopold Mozart et Sergueï Rachmaninov. The concert takes place at the Chapelle des pénitents blancs, which is situated in the rue de l’écluse, Villeneuve-sur-lot, Lot et Garonne.
11th April 09
Bordeaux Big Band Jazz Ensemble. At the Espace d’Albret in Nérac, Lot et Garonne.
The musicians of Bordeaux Big Band Jazz Ensemble invite you to a concert marked by the swing of the West Coast, particularly the years 1955 to 1965.
The 17 musicians from the Big Band offer a trip back to the time of the Terry Gibbs Dream Band, Quincy Jones and the unforgettable Olover Nelson.
The concert will be followed by an authentic beef in the tradition of jazz clubs, open to all and involving musicians from the Big Band. All jazz lovers are invited to taste the joys of improvisation during an evening which combines professional musicians and amateur enthusiasts.
13th & 14th March 09
Carnaval de Tonneins, Lot et Garonne
A local parade of 1,200 musicians and singers gather in the streets, in the centre of Tonneins for a musical spectacular, with a firework finalé produced by the unique musical performers ‘Les Commandos Percu”.
24th February 09
After the success of “Stars of dance in France” (1999-2000) a selection of 10 star dancers from around the world and 10 members of the corps de ballet Opera Kiev, present a show, composed mostly of classical dance, dance neo-classical, but also more modern pieces like the fabulous Tango blind and the Flame in Paris, among others at the Théâtre Municipal Ducourneau at Agen, lot et garonne.
13th February 09
Flamenco por el mundo – A theatrical show of flamenco music and dance performed by 8 musicians and 2 dancers, on stage at the centre culturel at Fumel, Lot-et-Garonne
20th and 21st December 08
An exhibition of french “Chocolat Art”
You are invited to the ‘Galerie des Tanneries’ at Nérac, to observe the creation of chocolate masterpieces.
Demonstrations are held Saturday and Sunday with artist Pyropat. The artists will share their creative chocolate appetite.
You may consume with the eyes only !
20th December 08
At 9pm at ‘La Tannerie’, 20 Rue de Cajarc, Agen, Lot et Garonne.
Classical pianist Jacques Dor recites music on the theme of Christmas.
20th December 08
At 8.30pm at the Théâtre Georges-Leygues (Villeneuve Sur Lot) Sergio Piterbarg presents an original Christmas concert.
A show to enjoy for the whole family during the Christmas period.
Sergio proposes a new journey with seperate choirs of men and women.
28th November to 21st December 08
At the ‘Gallerie des Tanneries’ at Nérac, Lot-et-Garonne, an exhibition of a dozen artists offering a wide range of arts from: painting, sculpture, ceramics, lithography, raku, creative jewellery and more…
You may purchase original and unique pieces from the artists, superb gifts for Christmas!
Opening times: Every day 2pm-6pm
1st November 08
At Tournon d’Agenais an evening of celebration of Blues music from 8pm. Featuring the following artists GREAT JAM’S SESSION (USA/Fr/All)
with
Karl W. Davis : vocal.
R.J. Mischo : vocal, harmonica.
Nico Wayne Toussaint : vocal, harmonica.
Mister Tchang : vocal, guitar.
Nico Duportal : vocal, guitar.
Abdell ‘B’ Bop Bouyousfi : double bass.
Pascal Delmas : drums.
Chris Rannenberg : piano.
Roby ‘Super Sax’ Edwards : saxophone.
SEAN CARNEY BAND (USA) + guest
Sean Carney : vocal, guitar.
Bill Stuve : bass.
Eric Blume : drums.
9th October 08 to 5th January 09
François Sternicha is a painter, sculptor and also specialises in black and white photography and mixed media. when he combines all his talents he prepares magnificent ‘mounted pieces’ of great originality. Exhibiting at ‘La Tannerie’, Rue de Cajarc, Agen.
1st September 08 to 30th June 09
Every Monday through to Thursday at 23 Rue Etienne Marcel in the centre of Villeneuve-sur-lot, be entertained by American tap dance and body rhythm (percussion equipment).
1st September to 31st December 08
Talented artist of great sensitivity, Martine LEBRUN exhibits at 1, Place Sainte Foy, Pujols, ( 5 mins from Villeneuve-sur-lot) – from 10am daily. An artist said to pick out the intimate authenticity of the human being and expressing his own emotions in his work.
September 2008
Once every two years, traders, craftsmen, restaurateurs and, above all, the producers get together to celebrate Agen’s prune harvest.
There are events every afternoon and evening around Agen, throughout the festival, with plenty of opportunities for the general public to taste the many ways in which the prunes are worked into delicious dishes. Pork and prunes, prunes stuffed in their skin, prune liqueurs and much more are laid out for you to enjoy. Every self-respecting gourmand knows that the prunes from Agen are the finest money can buy.
2nd and 3rd of August 08
Le festival des Arts de la Rue Miramont
The first weekend of August plays host to a festival, celebrating street performance and art at Miramont-de-Guyenne.
This annual event, now in it’s 14th year, takes place in the centre of town, where performers entertain throughout the weekend, with colourful displays of song, dance, theatre and music. A great weekend for all ages.
26th July 08
Prune-pit spitters Festival(Yes you did read that correctly !)
The Lot et Garonne is renowned for its fruit produce and it’s prunes in particular. So don’t be surprised to hear that there is actually an annual event that takes place in the nearest small town to your holiday accommodation – Sainte-Livrade-sur-lot.
Each year the 6,000 + inhabitants of the town, gather together to compete in the art of spitting prune stones. Around 100 participants take part and there are separate competitions for adults and children.
So if you don’t fancy projecting the stones of these delicious fruit yourself, why not turn up to watch anyway. As always the event is turned into a joyous festival. (And it’s only a 5 minute drive from Valmar Gite).
26th July 08
Fête médiévale à Gavaudun
Set against the back-drop of the fortified XIIIth century Chateau de Gavaudun the ‘Fête Médiévale à Gavaudun’, brings you a day of medieval celebration. As well as displays throughout the day, there will be exhibitors of crafts, arts and old trades: a shoeing marshall, a basket maker, jewellers, a stone mason, a pottery maker and others, either selling their products or conducting demonstrations of their know-how. The streets of the village turn medieval, with blazons, flags, animals and even a tavern turns back the ages.
The castle and its imposing keep are open to visitors and entry is free. In the evening a convivial and animated meal (book tickets in advance for reservation) takes place in the centre of of the village, followed by a concert of medieval music and a spectacle of fire.
Spectacle de la Bastide de Monflanquin
Each Tuesday throughout July and August, commencing 8th July, there is the “Spectacle de la Bastide de Monflanquin”, commencing around 9pm
Evening festivities in Monflanquin, another Bastide village designated as one of “Les plus beaux villages de France” and accompanied by “Janouille la Fripouille”, a local folklore character, dressed in a medieval ‘jester’ type costume.
“Janouille la Fripouille” is also the character that will take you on a ‘poetic and humourous’ guided tour of the sights of Monflanquin by day and tells stories of its fascinating and animated history.
July and August 08
Agen welcomes the summer with a two-month outdoor music festival, taking place every Tuesday night in July and every Tuesday and Friday night in August (from 9pm onwards), at the ‘Place de la Mairie’. With concerts from jazz and folk to French chanson and brass bands, this free, open-air celebration, has something for everyone. Full details of the programme are posted on the Office de Tourisme website as soon as they become available.
Every Sunday throughout June, July & August 08
Visit the ‘Jardin des Nénuphars’, the National water lillies nusery and gardens at Le Temple-sur-Lot, a ten minute drive from Valmar and from 9pm each Sunday, you can enjoy a concert of jazz, rock, classical or other music.
Whilst at Valmar telephone 00 33 (0)5 53 01 33 66 to find out what’s on the following Sunday.
14th July 08
National Day of July 14th is celebrated across France.
If you’re lucky enough to be in France on this day, you can expect to experience great festivities wherever you are. Villeneuve-sur-lot is of course no exception and celebrations take place in the town centre throughout the evening. Song and dance, provided by live entertainers and food and drink, will be the order, with local and often international musicians performing on both banks of the river Lot. Another opportunity for you to join in the fun, the french way. The festivities culminate in a pyrotechnic bonanza, lighting up the night sky.
28th June 08
Jean-Claude Dupoux, an Agen-native guitarist, plays at ‘La Tannerie’, 20 Rue Cajarc, in Agen.
With a Traditional background, Jean-Claude plays with a variety of techniques right up to current pop.
‘La Tannerie’ is a well known haunt in Agen for live entertainment and regularly receives artists performing “Jazz”, “Blues”, “Swing”, “Song” and “Classical music”.
20th June to 14th September 08
At the Musée de Gajac at Villeneuve-sur-lot
Universally known contemporary artist, Claude Viallat exhibits a selection of his work.
20th June 08
From 10pm onwards, in the ‘Rue de La Ville’ in Fumel Town Centre, enjoy another live performance of ‘The music and songs of Villeneuvois’. Songs of ploughing and harvest and french traditions. A festive atmosphere – The Real France !
13th and 14th June 08
“Le Festival de la Chanson Poétique du Vieux Pujols”
A festival of song, set in the medieval village of Pujols, a fifteen minute drive from your holiday accommodation.
Talented Pierre Delorme, accompanied by his friend, the virtuoso Thierry Réocreux, form the group Poemelodies They will be leading 12 artists performing their version of “poetic song” over the course of the two days.
A very pretty setting in a village known as one of “Les plus beaux villages de France”.
1st June 08
On Sunday 1st June 2008 The World famous American basketball team, The Harlem Globe-Trotters appear at the ‘Centre Omnisport’, which is situated at Temple-sur-lot and less than ten minutes drive from ‘Valmar’.
For Art lovers
There are more than a dozen art exhibitions to visit in the area that are being held throughout the summer months.
An example of one is at:
The Museum Albert Marzelles – 15 rue Abel Boyé 47200 Marmande.
Between 12th October 2007 and 30th August 2008.
A presentation of the collection of portraits of the Museums drawings, paintings and photographs of the XIXth and XXth century.
1st January to 31st December 08
Art of a more contemporary style can be seen at the Workshop of Corinne Vilcaz , which is situated at Chemin de Massanès, in Villeneuve-sur-lot. An impressionist, working with oils and watercolours, his favoured subjects are flowers, fruits, marine and the city of Venice. His workshop is open to the public every weekday from 3pm to 7pm except Thursday and weekends are by appointment.
