
Cannes, a weekend of art, music and tradition
Between sea, performances and flavors: the city’s autumn lights up with energy
Cannes is not only cinema and red carpets. Behind its international fame lies a lively and authentic soul, shaped by art, music, tradition and Mediterranean flavors. The weekend of 6–7 December 2025 is the perfect occasion to discover this genuine side of the city: two days in which culture, entertainment and conviviality blend together in perfect harmony.
A weekend of dance, music and celebration
The streets of Cannes come alive with events ranging from dance to music, creative workshops and performances for both adults and children. On Sunday 7 December, the JW Marriott – Palais Stéphanie hosts UNITED DANCES OF AMERICA, a vibrant celebration of dance. The day before, on Saturday 6 December, the Gare Maritime becomes a cultural hotspot with the ATELIER TECHNIQUES DE MIX @GARE CROISETTE, a workshop dedicated to DJ techniques, and FIJ x Gare Croisette, another musical event that transforms the station into a lively creative space.
Contemporary dance plays a central role during the weekend: on Sunday 7 December, the Palais des Festivals welcomes the prestigious NEDERLANDS DANS THEATER – NDT2, part of the Festival de Danse Cannes Côte d’Azur, while on Saturday 6 December Scène 55 hosts the performance of the COMPAGNIE LEÏLA KA, one of the most innovative companies in today’s European scene.
Music lovers can enjoy the warm spirit of the season with the Grand Concert de Noël, held on Sunday 7 December at Holy Trinity Cannes. Families and children are invited to the ATELIER PARENTS/ENFANTS – MARION MUZAC MZ PRODUCTIONS, a creative workshop at Théâtre de la Licorne.
For theatre enthusiasts, Sunday 7 December also features the Stage d’improvisation théâtrale: Crée ton personnage, led by Bertrand Simon, at Salle Gilbert Fort—a chance to explore new expressive tools and unleash creativity.
Throughout the entire weekend, the Gare Maritime hosts the Playground Market, a creative market filled with art, design and local flavors, while at Palm Beach the festive atmosphere continues with LE VILLAGE DE NOËL AU PALM BEACH CANNES, open until 25 December.
Art itineraries between sea and light
Beyond performances, Cannes offers a rich cultural landscape that can be explored over the weekend and throughout the winter months. At the Musée du Masque de Fer et du Fort Royal, visitors can discover “The origins of Cannes – Fishing and other treasures of the sea”, open until 26 April 2026: a journey into the deep bond between the city and the Mediterranean.
The Suquet des Artistes presents “The Last Dance” by Corine Borgnet, a powerful reflection on the body and the passing of time, on display until 4 January 2026. Meanwhile, Villa Malmaison hosts “Poussière d’étoiles” by Jean-Michel Othoniel, open until 6 January 2026—an enchanting trail of luminous installations that interact with the sea light and the transparency of glass.
Markets: the authentic heart of Cannes
To fully experience daily life in Cannes, a visit to its markets is essential. The Marché de La Bocca preserves the lively atmosphere of a popular neighborhood, while the Marché Gambetta seduces with Provençal colors, spices and fresh produce. Open every day except Monday, they offer a true immersion into the local culture and traditions of Cannes.
Cannes: a city of many shades
With dance performances, art exhibitions, markets, music and encounters, Cannes reveals a surprising and authentic face, far from the glamour of the spotlights. Spending a weekend here means letting yourself be embraced by a city full of warmth, creativity and Mediterranean charm—a mosaic of experiences that captures visitors step by step.