It’s not just the breathtaking scenery that draws visitors from far and wide to the medieval town of Annecy. In summer, it transforms into a vibrant hub of culture and excitement, offering events to suit locals and tourists alike.
At the heart of Annecy’s summer festivities is the Animation Festival, which captivates audiences by showcasing creativity and imagination. But the allure of Annecy doesn’t end there. Beyond the Animation Festival, the town plays host to a diverse array of events highlighting its rich heritage. Whether you’re a music aficionado, a keen foodie, or a sports enthusiast, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Annecy’s summer lineup.
The top events in Annecy this summer
1. The Annecy International Animation Film Festival
- Date: 9-15th June 2024
- Location: Le Pâquier, Annecy
- Perfect for: Animation fans, film fanatics, families with young children
This internationally acclaimed event is set to captivate audiences again this year with its celebration of creativity and innovation.
Renowned as the most influential animation festival in Europe, it serves as a platform for both established industry professionals and emerging talents to showcase their latest works and exchange ideas.
The festival’s diverse lineup caters to animation enthusiasts of all ages and tastes. Attendees can look forward to screenings, workshops, masterclasses, and networking opportunities, providing invaluable insights into the art and craft of animation.
Plus, parts of the festival are also open to the general public, with free open-air screenings taking place each evening on Le Pâquier, on the edge of the lake. This is perfect if you want to discover the festival without spending money on tickets.
With its picturesque setting on the shores of Lake Annecy and its vibrant atmosphere buzzing with artistic energy, it’s a must-visit event. Visit the website to discover the official selection for this year’s competition or click here for more information about tickets.
Find accommodation in Annecy
2. Lake Annecy MaXi-Race
- Date: 31st May – 2nd June 2024
- Location: Lake Annecy
- Perfect for: Advanced trail runners, fitness enthusiasts
Experience the ultimate human and sporting adventure at the MaXi-Race du Lac d’Annecy. With over 5,000 participants hailing from across France and 40 other countries, this exceptional event boasts a challenging, technically demanding course offering awe-inspiring vistas of the lake.
With a dedicated team of 300 individuals orchestrating its success, the race is a testament to courage, environmental stewardship, and personal growth.
Traverse the stunning landscapes encircling Lake Annecy, where every participant is invited to push their limits and embrace the spirit of trail running. Choose from various race formats catering to athletes of all abilities and join the celebration of athleticism and camaraderie.
3. AlpsMan
- Date: 8th – 9th June 2024
- Location: Saint-Jorioz
- Perfect for: Extreme sports enthusiasts, fitness fanatics
Experience the thrill of participating in a groundbreaking event that is redefining outdoor sports. The AlpsMan offers an extreme triathlon experience in an unparalleled setting around the stunning Lake Annecy.
At the heart of the weekend’s festivities lies the flagship Xtrem Triathlon, where participants will brave a 3.8km swim in Lake Annecy, followed by a challenging 180km bike ride through the breathtaking landscapes of Haute-Savoie and Savoie, featuring panoramic views from five mountain passes. The journey culminates with a gruelling 42km run, ending at the summit of Semnoz.
For those seeking a slightly less demanding challenge, the Half Triathlon and the Xperience Trirace offer accessible alternatives. Even children can get in on the action with the AlpsKid event, introducing them to the joys of triathlon in a fun and supportive environment. And if you’d simply prefer to cheer on the participants, a buzzing atmosphere is guaranteed!
Regardless of the chosen event, the AlpsMan promises participants a day-long adventure through unparalleled landscapes!
4. Fête de la Musique
- Date: 21st June 2024
- Location: Annecy
- Perfect for: Music lovers, families, groups of friends – pretty much everyone!
Fête de la Musique, or Music Day, is an annual event celebrated worldwide on June 21st. Originating in France in 1982, it has since spread to over 120 countries, to promote music in all its forms and encourage people to enjoy and participate in live music performances.
In Annecy, the Fête de la Musique takes on a vibrant and diverse character, reflecting the town’s rich musical heritage and cultural diversity. The event is a celebration of all genres of music, from pop and rock to tango, reggae, and French popular music. Throughout the city, several concert stages are set up, each hosting performances by local and visiting artists.
Attendees can wander through the picturesque streets of Annecy, hopping from one stage to another, soaking in the eclectic sounds and rhythms. This new edition of the music festival promises to be a memorable experience, offering residents and visitors alike the chance to come together and celebrate the universal language of music in all its glorious forms.
5. Triathlon International du Lac d’Annecy
- Date: 29th – 30th June 2024
- Location: Lake Annecy, Massif des Bauges Regional Nature Park, Annecy city centre
- Perfect for: Athletes, sports enthusiasts
Picture yourself participating in the Annecy Triathlon, a unique event that combines natural beauty with urban surroundings.
The race starts with a swim in the clear waters of Lake Annecy, which is known to be the cleanest lake in Europe, surrounded by the peaks of the Aravis region. Then, the athletes will hop on their bike to explore the scenic Bauges Natural Regional Park, enjoying panoramic views of the lake and the mountains. They will finally finish off with a run through Annecy’s city centre, passing by landmarks like the Imperial Palace and Lovers’ Bridge.
The triathlon offers a challenging yet rewarding experience in a stunning setting, making it a memorable event for all participants and spectators.
6. Martin Fourcade Nordic Festival
- Date: 30th August – 1st September 2024
- Location: Le Pâquier, Annecy
- Perfect for: Sports enthusiasts, families
The Martin Fourcade Nordic Festival brings together the crème de la crème of biathlon and cross-country skiing for its fourth edition in Annecy.
This prestigious event attracts top athletes from around the globe, creating a thrilling atmosphere for both competitors and spectators alike. With roller skiing taking centre stage, the festival has become a must-attend event on the sporting calendar, showcasing the incredible skill and determination of these elite athletes.
Whether you’re a seasoned fan or a newcomer to the sport, the Martin Fourcade Nordic Festival offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness world-class competition in the picturesque setting of Annecy.
Regular events
Art market
Annecy’s “Marchés de l’Art et des Créateurs” is a vibrant showcase of creativity and craftsmanship that takes place throughout the year on the last Saturday of each month, from 8 am to 6 pm.
This event transforms the streets of Annecy into a bustling marketplace, where local artists, artisans, and creators come together to share their talents with the community. From handcrafted jewellery and artwork to unique fashion pieces and gourmet delights, the market offers a diverse array of treasures waiting to be discovered.
Whether you’re searching for the perfect souvenir or simply want to immerse yourself in the city’s creative energy, this monthly gathering promises a unique experience for visitors and locals alike.
Antique market
Annecy’s “Brocante” (antique/flea market), held on the last Saturday of every month year-round, is a beloved tradition that draws locals and visitors alike to explore an eclectic array of treasures. From vintage furniture and retro collectables to antique books and unique trinkets, this bustling market offers a nostalgic journey through time.
Set against the picturesque backdrop of Annecy’s charming streets, the Brocante invites visitors to stroll, browsing the stalls in search of hidden gems and one-of-a-kind finds.
These summer events in Annecy offer just a glimpse into the vibrant and diverse cultural landscape of the region. With countless more festivities and experiences awaiting discovery, there’s no shortage of reasons to explore the Alps during the warmer months. If you’re keen to travel a little further, then be sure to check out these other summer events in the Alps.
For further inspiration, explore our Annecy archives and stay updated on all things Alps by following us on Instagram. Plus, for the latest news and exclusive offers from OVO Network, don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter. Stay tuned as we continue to share more Alpine adventures with you!
If you enjoyed this post, we think you’d also like:
