French Riviera: 5 Must-See Events on April 11 & 12, 2026

If you think the French Riviera is only about the glamour of the Croisette or the Promenade des Anglais, the weekend of April 11 and 12, 2026, will change your mind. While the major cities gear up for the high season, perched villages and lesser-known coastal towns come alive with events celebrating extreme sports, fine craftsmanship, and the timeless charm of the hinterland.

Here are 5 handpicked events to experience the authentic Riviera, far from the typical tourist crowds.

1. XTerra Trail des Balcons d’Azur – Mandelieu-la-Napoule

For outdoor enthusiasts, Mandelieu-la-Napoule hosts the XTerra Trail des Balcons d’Azur. This is more than just a race; it is a breathtaking visual journey.

• Why go: The routes wind through the Esterel Massif, famous for its iconic red rocks that contrast sharply with the deep blue Mediterranean.

• Details: Distances range from beginner-friendly paths to challenging ultra-trails. April 11-12 are the peak days to cheer on athletes or join organized nature walks in Robinson Park.

2. Les Journées du Pays de Vence – Saint-Paul de Vence

The medieval village of Saint-Paul de Vence, world-renowned for its art galleries, dedicates this weekend to local heritage through unique guided tours.

• April 11 Event: A special guided tour titled “L’art à l’air libre” (Art in the Open Air) explores the dialogue between local heritage and contemporary art installations scattered throughout the village.

• Vibe: You can also visit the Fondation Maeght, which will be hosting sessions for young musical talents and temporary exhibitions during those dates.

3. Musical Events at the Hippodrome – Cagnes-sur-Mer

On Saturday, April 11, 2026, the Hippodrome de la Côte d’Azur in Cagnes-sur-Mer transforms into an exceptional stage for the “Rendez-Vous Musicaux”.

• What to expect: In collaboration with the Nocturnes du Piano team, the event features high-quality concerts ranging from jazz to classical music in an elegant seaside setting.

  

• Highlight: It’s the perfect opportunity to discover rising stars while enjoying a sunset aperitif overlooking the tracks.

4. Olfactory Routes and “Alien Art” – Grasse

The world’s perfume capital, Grasse, offers a culturally rich weekend ahead of the famous ExpoRose in May.

• Exhibitions & Workshops: Visit the unusual exhibition “Alien Art in the 21st Century” or participate in spring workshops dedicated to fragrance creation and traditional soap-making secrets.

• Top Tip: Don’t miss Didier Suard’s painting exhibition in the historic center, adding a splash of color to the ancient medieval streets.

5. International Junior Tennis Tournament – Beaulieu-sur-Mer

For those seeking “Belle Époque” charm combined with top-tier sports, the Tennis Club de Beaulieu kicks off one of the most prestigious junior tournaments on the international circuit on April 11.

• The Setting: Located in a spectacular spot between the sea and mountains, the club allows you to watch future tennis stars in a relaxed, chic atmosphere.

• The Village: After the matches, a stroll toward Villa Kérylos offers a perfect end to a day dedicated to classical beauty.