Saint-Paul-de-Vence Autumn Festival 2026: Chestnuts, Art and Halloween Mysteries

Saint-Paul-de-Vence is getting ready to welcome autumn with a festival that combines seasonal flavours, artistic heritage and centuries-old traditions. Set among medieval alleyways, art galleries, artisan workshops and historic squares, one of the most picturesque villages in the French Riviera hinterland will become a lively meeting place for food lovers, culture enthusiasts and families.

From October 17 to November 2, 2026, the Fête de l’Automne will offer a varied programme of activities for residents and visitors alike. Shopping events, local food tastings, classic car displays, lantern-lit guided tours and Halloween-themed activities will provide plenty of reasons to explore Saint-Paul-de-Vence beyond the summer season.

The festival is organised by the Association des commerçants et artistes saint-paulois (ACASP), in partnership with the municipality and the local Tourist Office. Shops, artists’ studios, galleries and public squares throughout the historic centre will take part in the celebrations, highlighting the village’s artistic identity and local traditions.

Autumn Shopping and Classic Cars: The Festival Opens on October 17

The festivities begin on Saturday, October 17, with a major braderie, a special shopping event offering discounts and bargains. Running until Monday, October 19, from 10 am to 7 pm each day, the event will bring together local shops, boutiques and galleries offering deals on fashion, accessories, home décor, cosmetics, gourmet products and original works of art.

It is an ideal opportunity to browse the village’s independent shops and discover distinctive products while enjoying the atmosphere of its historic streets.

Saturday, October 17, will also see Place de Gaulle host the fifth edition of the Boucle historique de Saint-Paul-de-Vence, featuring a touring rally and an exhibition of classic and sports cars.

The event is held under the patronage of Yannick Dalmas, a four-time winner of the 24 Hours of Le Mans. Admission is free, making it an appealing event for motorsport enthusiasts and curious visitors alike.

Public parking will be free throughout the three-day shopping event, from October 17 to 19.

Chestnuts, Local Produce and Autumn Flavours on October 18

Sunday, October 18, is dedicated to seasonal food and regional traditions with the Fête des Vendanges et des Châtaignes, a celebration of the grape harvest and chestnuts.

From 10 am to 6 pm, Place de Gaulle will host a market featuring local produce, food stalls and tastings. Visitors will have the opportunity to discover regional specialities and enjoy the flavours of autumn in a welcoming atmosphere, accompanied by music.

The event celebrates the area’s culinary heritage and offers a relaxed way to experience the local food culture while exploring the village.

Public parking will also be free on Sunday, October 18.

Traditional Pumpkin Soup Takes Centre Stage on October 25

Autumn cuisine will once again take centre stage on Sunday, October 25, with the traditional Soupe de courge à la Saint-Pauloise, a pumpkin soup meal inspired by local culinary traditions.

Starting at 1 pm, the event will take place in two venues within the village, decorated in autumnal colours. Guests will enjoy a set menu celebrating seasonal flavours in a convivial setting.

Tickets cost €35 per person. Advance online booking is compulsory, and places are limited, so visitors are advised to reserve early through the official event channels.

Public parking will be free on October 25 as well.

Halloween in Saint-Paul-de-Vence: Lantern-Lit Tours and Local Legends

As Halloween approaches, the Autumn Festival takes on a more mysterious atmosphere, inviting visitors to discover the hidden stories and legends of Saint-Paul-de-Vence.

On Friday, October 30, and Saturday, October 31, guided evening tours will begin at 6 pm. By lantern light, participants will explore the village’s historic streets while listening to local legends, fascinating anecdotes and stories from the past.

Costumes are encouraged, and sweets will add a festive touch to the experience, making it suitable for families as well as adults interested in history and folklore.

Tickets cost €10 per person, while children under six can join free of charge.

A Witch Hunt and Interactive Mystery Through the Village

The Halloween programme continues on Saturday, October 31, and Sunday, November 1, with Les sorcières du Mont Bego, an immersive, life-size mystery game set in the streets of Saint-Paul-de-Vence.

Starting at 2 pm, participants will follow clues, solve puzzles and investigate a mysterious story as they make their way through the historic village. The activity offers an interactive way to discover the surroundings while putting observation and problem-solving skills to the test.

Tickets cost €12 for adults and €8 for young people aged 9 to 18. Children under eight enter free of charge. Advance booking is required.

On Saturday, October 31, younger visitors can also take part in the traditional Halloween candy hunt. Participating shops, art galleries and artists’ studios throughout the village will welcome children for an afternoon of sweets and seasonal fun.

Discover Saint-Paul-de-Vence in Autumn

The 2026 Autumn Festival offers an excellent opportunity to experience Saint-Paul-de-Vence outside the busy summer season, discovering a destination where historic heritage, artistic creativity and Provençal traditions come together.

From tasting seasonal specialities and browsing independent boutiques to admiring classic cars and joining a lantern-lit Halloween tour, the programme offers activities for a wide range of interests and ages.

Whether you are planning a family outing, a cultural escape or a gastronomic visit to the French Riviera, Saint-Paul-de-Vence provides a distinctive autumn experience in one of the region’s most picturesque settings.

Practical Information: Saint-Paul-de-Vence Autumn Festival 2026

• Location: Saint-Paul-de-Vence, French Riviera, France.
• Dates: October 17 to November 2, 2026.
• Main events: Autumn shopping event, classic car rally and exhibition, chestnut and grape harvest festival, traditional pumpkin soup meal, lantern-lit guided tours, Halloween mystery game and children’s candy hunt.
• Free public parking: October 17–19 and October 25, according to the published programme.
• Advance booking: Required for the October 25 meal and the Les sorcières du Mont Bego mystery game. Check the official channels for booking details and availability for other activities.
• Further information: Contact the Saint-Paul-de-Vence Tourist Office or visit the municipality’s official website.

With chestnuts, art, local flavours and Halloween mysteries, the 2026 Autumn Festival invites visitors to discover a different side of Saint-Paul-de-Vence and enjoy the French Riviera in its colourful autumn season.

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