13°C
MARQUAY
2026 is shaping up to be an exceptional year in the Périgord Noir, with a rich calendar of sporting, cultural, gastronomic and heritage events. Staying at our gîtes near Sarlat places you perfectly to enjoy these highlights while returning each day to peace, space and countryside surroundings.
Below are the key highlights of 2026.
________________________________________
🚴♂️ Tour de France in the Périgord Noir – July 2026
One of the most significant events to come to the region in years, the Tour de France passes through the Dordogne in July 2026.
The stage from Périgueux to Bergerac crosses parts of the Périgord Noir and the Vézère Valley, passing close to:
• Montignac-Lascaux
• Les Eyzies
• Sarlat-la-Canéda
• Domme, Beynac and La Roque-Gageac
Villages along the route host roadside entertainment, local celebrations and fan zones. Staying at our gîtes allows you to enjoy the excitement by day, then escape the crowds and relax in comfort afterwards — an ideal combination for a summer stay.
________________________________________
🍄 Sarlat Truffle Fair – January 2026
The year begins with one of southwest France's most prestigious food events: the Sarlat Truffle Fair (Fête de la Truffe), traditionally held in mid-January.
Taking place in the medieval heart of Sarlat, the festival celebrates the famous black truffle (Tuber melanosporum).
What to expect:
• Official, regulated truffle market
• Truffle inspections and pricing demonstrations
• Truffle-hunting displays with trained dogs
• Cooking demonstrations by local chefs
• Special truffle menus in Sarlat's restaurants
________________________________________
🎶 Summer Music & Cultural Festivals
Cultures in the Heart(s) – May 2026
Held annually in May in Montignac-Lascaux, Cultures in the Heart(s) is a vibrant multicultural festival celebrating music, dance and world cultures.
The festival features:
• Open-air concerts
• Dance performances
• International artists
• A friendly, family-oriented atmosphere
________________________________________
Festival du Périgord Noir – August 2026
Running throughout August, the Festival du Périgord Noir is one of the region's most respected classical music festivals.
International musicians perform in:
• Historic churches
• Châteaux
• Heritage venues across the Vézère Valley
Concerts are easily combined with relaxed summer days spent exploring villages and markets close to your accommodation.
________________________________________
Fête de la Musique – 21 June 2026
On 21 June, towns and villages across the Périgord Noir celebrate the start of summer with free outdoor concerts.
Sarlat, Domme, Montignac and many nearby villages host performances in streets and squares, creating a lively early-summer atmosphere ideal for guests staying locally.
________________________________________
🍽️ Gastronomy at Its Best
Février Gourmand – February to Early March 2026
From early February to early March, Février Gourmand blends gastronomy with heritage through tastings, workshops and guided visits.
Events are held in castles, caves, gardens and historic buildings across the region, making this an excellent time for an off-season break.
________________________________________
Fest'Oie de Sarlat – Early March 2026
Held over a weekend in early March, the Fest'Oie celebrates the Dordogne's traditional goose-based cuisine.
Expect:
• Communal meals
• Cooking demonstrations
• Local markets
• Traditional music and entertainment
A stay nearby allows you to enjoy the festivities without staying in the busy town centre.
________________________________________
🏛️ Heritage & Seasonal Celebrations
European Night of Museums – May 2026
The European Night of Museums, usually held in mid-May, sees museums across the Périgord Noir open late into the evening, often free of charge.
Expect:
• Special exhibitions
• Evening events and talks
• Unique night-time access to museums in places such as Les Eyzies, Montignac and Sarlat
This is a wonderful cultural highlight for a spring stay.
________________________________________
European Heritage Days – 19 & 20 September 2026
Held on the third weekend of September, the European Heritage Days offer:
• Free or reduced entry to monuments
• Access to buildings normally closed to the public
• Special guided tours and exhibitions
September is one of the best months to stay in the Dordogne — warm days, fewer visitors and an exceptional heritage programme.
________________________________________
Fête de la Bastide – October 2026
In October, the Fête de la Bastide celebrates the region's medieval planned towns such as Domme, Belvès, Monpazier and Villefranche-du-Périgord.
Medieval markets, costumed performers, traditional music and local food make this an atmospheric autumn event, ideal for a relaxed stay at our gîtes.
________________________________________
🎄 Sarlat Christmas Market – December 2026
The year ends with the charming Sarlat Christmas Market, typically running from early December until just before Christmas.
Wooden chalets, festive lights, regional food stalls and seasonal entertainment transform the medieval town, making it a perfect accompaniment to a cosy winter break.
________________________________________
🏰 Village Fêtes & Local Markets – Spring to Autumn 2026
From April to October, villages close to our gîtes host:
• Traditional village fêtes
• Artisan and farmers' markets
• Summer night markets (marchés nocturnes)
• Local music and food events
Many are just a short drive away, making it easy to explore at your own pace.
________________________________________
✨ Why 2026 Is the Perfect Year to Stay at Our Gîtes
With the Tour de France, Sarlat Truffle Fair, Cultures in the Heart(s), European Night of Museums, Heritage Days, Fête de la Bastide and the festive Sarlat Christmas Market, 2026 offers one of the richest event calendars the Périgord Noir has seen in years.
Our gîtes provide:
• A peaceful countryside base near Sarlat
• Easy access to major events without the crowds
• Space and comfort for couples, families and groups
Whether you're planning a gourmet winter break, a summer stay around the Tour de France, or a cultural escape in spring or autumn, 2026 is an ideal year to discover the Périgord Noir.
