
The city of Draguignan, in the heart of Provence, is preparing to welcome one of the most anticipated events of the summer. On June 26 and 27, the Fête du Dragon returns for its twelfth edition, offering a vibrant celebration of local history, traditions and cultural heritage through an extensive program designed for residents and visitors alike.
For two days, the historic center will become a lively open-air stage, hosting more than fifty activities—most of them free of charge—organized through the collaboration of the municipality, local associations, artisans and shopkeepers.
The Fête du Dragon is also an excellent opportunity to discover some of the city’s most important cultural landmarks.
At the Chapelle de l’Observance, visitors can explore the exhibition L’été à la mode while taking part in creative workshops where participants can build their own dragon models.
The Museum of Fine Arts will present the exhibition Les Roches rouges and organize themed guided tours inspired by dragons, along with clay modeling workshops, archery activities, painting sessions and entertainment for children.
The Museum of Popular Arts and Traditions will feature the exhibitions Popular Festivals, Cueillir le mai and Fragments de fête, as well as a fun dragon hunt specially designed for younger visitors and families.
Meanwhile, the Chapelle du Bon Pasteur will host an exhibition dedicated to the legendary French singer Édith Piaf.
Throughout the festival, Draguignan’s streets and squares will come alive with activities highlighting the region’s rich artisanal and culinary traditions.
Boulevard Clemenceau will host a traditional Provençal craft market, while skilled artisans will demonstrate traditional crafts including leatherworking and ceramics.
Music will also play a central role, with eleven aperitif concerts taking place across the historic center, the traditional musical aïoli accompanied by the band OLDIZ, and lively performances by the marching band Godogodom.
Visitors can also enjoy a family pétanque tournament and a spectacular fireworks display that will light up the sky during one of the festival evenings.
One of the festival’s highlights will be Place Luis Mizòn, where the Caboch’Arts collective will present a summer exhibition, painting workshops and live portrait sessions by local artists.
The square will also host the award ceremony for the Dragon Competition organized by the Arts District Association, together with meetings featuring artists, illustrators and authors.
The streets of Rue de Trans, Rue des Marchands and Place aux Herbes will be transformed into a large open-air creative workshop.
Local artisans will share their expertise through a wide range of hands-on activities for both adults and children. Visitors will have the opportunity to build dragons, craft wooden spinning tops and honey spoons, learn sewing, painting, embroidery, origami, bookbinding and even create magical wands.
Sensory experiences dedicated to the aromas and flavors of Provence will complete the program, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the region’s culture, traditions and craftsmanship.
Year after year, the Fête du Dragon in Draguignan continues to establish itself as one of the leading events marking the beginning of the Provençal summer. Combining performances, art, music, gastronomy and local traditions, the festival transforms the city’s historic center into a welcoming meeting place where visitors of all ages can enjoy two unforgettable days of culture, creativity and entertainment.
The full event program is available at the bottom of this article.