Our first round-up covered the flurry of markets across late April and early May. But the season doesn’t stop there – if anything, the second half of May brings some of the most characterful events of all. Here’s what to look forward to.
Fête de la Fraise et des Fleurs, Vergt, Dordogne – 17 May 2026
Vergt’s annual celebration is one of those quintessentially French events that does several things at once and does all of them well. Held on the third Sunday of May each year, the day combines a strawberry festival with a flower market on the square outside the mairie, where horticulturists and nursery growers set up alongside local producers.
The Dordogne is France’s second biggest strawberry-producing département – its 200 growers produce around 8,000 tonnes a year – and the festival gives you the chance to taste varieties including Gariguette, Charlotte, Mara des bois and more, direct from the growers. Bands play throughout the day, food trucks line the streets, and there’s a giant tart ceremony. It’s great fun.
Fête des Plantes Rares, Salviac, Lot – 17 May 2026
If rare and unusual plants are your thing, keep an eye on the Fête des Plantes Rares at Salviac in the Lot, scheduled for 17 May. Salviac is a small village just north of the Lot valley, and this specialist fair draws collectors and enthusiasts from across the region. Worth the drive.
Fête aux Fleurs, Arces, Charente-Maritime – 24 May 2026
The village of Arces in the Charente-Maritime hosts its flower festival on Sunday 24 May – a lovely end to the spring season, and a good reason to venture into the southern Saintonge, where the landscape of vineyards and Romanesque churches makes for a beautiful backdrop to a day out.
And Don’t Forget the Weekly Markets
Beyond the dedicated events, many towns across the region run regular flower stalls as part of their weekly markets throughout spring and early summer. Nérac, Agen, Auch, Périgueux, Bergerac, Angoulême, Saintes – most have a dedicated flower section on market days, and at this time of year the displays are at their very best. It’s the sort of thing that makes you want to buy a property with a bigger garden.
Southwest France in spring is one of life’s genuine pleasures. If you’re considering making it your permanent backdrop – or simply a very regular one – we’d love to help you find your corner of it. Get in touch with the Beaux Villages team to talk through what’s available.