Top 12 Events in Saumur & Loire Valley 2026 | Travel Guide

Planning a trip to the Loire Valley? Discover the best things to do in Saumur and its surroundings in 2026. From world-class equestrian displays to vintage cycling festivals, here is your essential travel guide to the region’s top-rated events.

1) Marathon de la Loire (Saumur)

Sunday, 10 May 2026 A premier spring running event featuring an iconic course along the banks of the Loire. Expect a festive, high-energy atmosphere in the city centre—perfect for an “active” weekend getaway.

💳 Entry fee applies (registration required)

2) Cadre Noir Gala – “Destins liés” (Saumur)

23 & 24 May 2026 Saumur’s signature show. Experience the precision of French dressage, elegance, and stunning scenography. A “wow-factor” evening that is worth the trip alone.

💳 Ticketed event (booking essential)

3) International Model Making Competition – Musée des Blindés (Saumur)

23 & 24 May 2026 A unique and family-friendly weekend featuring competitions, exhibitions, and a deep dive into history at this impressive tank museum. An excellent “all-weather” activity.

💳 Admission fee applies

4) Cadre Noir Gala – “Destins liés” (Saumur)

19 → 21 June 2026 Additional dates for the world-renowned gala: ideal if you are planning an early summer stay and want to secure your seats for this spectacular performance.

💳 Ticketed event

5) Anjou Vélo Vintage (Saumur Val de Loire)

26 → 28 June 2026 The ultimate “postcard” event of the region. Retro cycling tours, vintage outfits, and a convivial atmosphere through vineyards and Loire landscapes. Truly one-of-a-kind.

💳 Participation fee (tours and options)

Photo: “Anjou Vélo Vintage – Château de Montsoreau – Museum of Contempory Art”, by Philippe49730, CC BY-SA 4.0.

6) Festivini – “7 Summer Evenings / 7 AOCs” (Saumur)

Thursday, 9 July 2026 (6pm–10pm) The epitome of the French “Art de Vivre”: wine tastings, food pairings, and live music. Perfect for couples or friends looking for a stylish summer after-work vibe.

💳 Paid entry / Advance booking required

7) International Rose Festival (Doué-la-Fontaine)

11 → 14 July 2026 A major floral highlight featuring competitions, floral art, and garden displays. A fantastic choice for families and garden enthusiasts.

💳 Admission fee applies

8) Les Grandes Tablées du Saumur-Champigny (Saumur)

Wednesday, 29 July 2026 A giant open-air dinner celebrating local produce and Saumur-Champigny wines. Probably the most popular and sociable event of the summer.

💳 Paid entry / Booking essential (sells out quickly!)

9) Harvest Festival at the Château de Saumur

Sunday, 13 September 2026 The perfect “Loire & Harvest” weekend: traditional entertainment and a vineyard atmosphere set against the backdrop of the historic castle.

✅ Free entry (subject to official programme)

10) European Heritage Days (Saumur & Surroundings)

19 & 20 September 2026 Special openings, exclusive tours, and cultural surprises. Ideal for a sophisticated “culture and leisure” break during the mild late season.

11) Saumur Loire Festival (Saumur)

25 → 27 September 2026 A celebration of the river: traditional boating, living heritage, and local festivities on the quays. Highly photogenic and perfect for families.

12) October “Vineyards & Experiences”

• Entre Vigne et Loire Hike — Sunday, 11 October 2026: A great “nature and gentle sport” option (walking, cycling, or gravel bike). 💳 Registration fee.
• Vignobles en Scène! — 16, 17 & 18 October 2026: Unique wine tourism experiences including workshops, meetings, and tastings. 💳 Free or paid depending on activity.

Bonus: Christmas & New Year

The Domaine du Golf reopens on 17th December, just in time for the festive season in Saumur. While the official 2026 programme is released in autumn, annual highlights include:

• Saumur Christmas Market: Traditional wooden chalets, gourmet treats, and gift ideas.

• Ice Rink (Place de la Bilange): The top family activity for the holidays.

• Festive Illuminations: Magical displays across the city centre throughout late December.

Planning Your Trip by Vibe

• Spring (Sport & Culture): Run & Bike, Saumurban Trail, Marathon, and the Tank Museum.

• Summer (The “Postcard” Experience): Anjou Vélo Vintage, Festivini, and the Grandes Tablées.

• Autumn (Wine & Heritage): Harvest Festival, Heritage Days, and the Saumur Loire Festival.

• Winter: Christmas markets and festive magic (from 17th Dec).

Quick Guide by Traveller Profile

• Families: Saumurban Trail, Musée des Blindés, Harvest Festival, Saumur Loire Festival.

• Couples / Foodies: Festivini, Grandes Tablées, Vignobles en Scène.

• Active / Sporty: Marathon, Anjou Vélo Vintage, Vigne & Loire Hike.

• Culture & “Wow” Moments: Cadre Noir Galas.

Whether you are visiting for a sporting challenge, a wine-tasting escape, or a family holiday, Le Domaine du Golf is the perfect base to explore Saumur, the Loire River, and the charming villages of Doué-la-Fontaine.

FAQ – Organising your 2026 stay