Créé par Romane, le 20 juin 2026
Votre guide Ryo
Top 4 Best Events in Annecy
© Shutterstock
Seasonality directly impacts Annecy's annual highlights. Annecy's Christmas market is surely the most anticipated winter gathering. Then, acceleration occurs with the return of sunny days and new tourist influx. Paradoxically, despite its great reputation, Annecy remains a microcosm. Don't be afraid to push doors and ask locals directly about their city's current events! The people of Annecy know it better than anyone.
Let's not forget that the people of Haute-Savoie are always on the move! Close to nature and other regional localities, they take their events with them. As a result, many events are held elsewhere, further away in the surroundings.
So, what events will you find in Annecy? Several major festivals like big shows (more occasional), the lake festival, international sports celebrations, descent from alpine pastures, festivals...
Our selection of recurring events
Key information: Annecy's major events will put your trip organization to the test. Mainly for accommodation arrival logistics, as transport and hotels will be taken by storm (very) quickly. Finally, Annecy's core concentrates on a handful of streets. To enjoy the best locations, anticipation will be key.
1. Annecy Lake Festival
photo credit Annecy
Date or period: First weekend of August
Access: Paid €
Description: In Annecy, under the intense heat of summer, the Lake Festival takes place. This sound and light show is a major pyrotechnic event in Europe. With nearly 200,000 spectators each year, the Lake Festival is a true tradition for Annecy residents. Over 1 hour of non-stop fireworks, music and luminous water jets, punctuated with entertainment for the public.
Good to know: The lake festival attracts lots and lots of people! This influx announces the beauty and scale of the outdoor show. Nevertheless, from time to time, capricious weather joins the festivities. Plan your outfit accordingly, as the crowded masses will prevent you from retreating.
2. Annecy Christmas Market
photo credit Chéri fais tes valises
Date or period: From late November to early January
Access: Free
Description: Dive headfirst into the magic of Christmas in Annecy. The Alps Christmas is spread across two areas of the city. One starts at the town hall, the other in front of the Courier shopping center. Two places, two Christmas atmospheres, for twice the magic! In total, about a hundred exhibitors offer their products in 120 traditional wooden Savoyard chalets. You'll find a thousand gift ideas and taste the best Savoyard culinary specialties. The unmissable tartiflette, cheeses and diots in white wine.
3. Annecy Venetian Carnival
photo credit Ville d'Annecy
Date or period: In February or March
Access: Free
Description: First major event of the year in Annecy, the Venetian carnival is a gathering full of grace and tranquility. The festivities are concentrated in the old town, in the Gardens of Europe and on the Pâquier. Dozens of costumed people wear masks made in the pure Venetian tradition. These superb masks complete even more elaborate costumes. The carnival-goers then stroll serenely through the streets of Annecy! You'll recognize the references of Annecy's Venetian Carnival to its transalpine big brother.
Good to know: Psst... Head to the Gardens of Europe for the best viewpoint of the Venetian parade. A sound stage is set up to allow passersby and impatient photographers not to miss a bit.
4. International Animated Film Festival
photo credit Essor Savoyard
Date or period: In October (9 days).
Access: Free
Description: The magic of animated films holds a special place in the hearts of Annecy residents. With this Animation Festival, the city has propelled itself onto the international scene. The biggest industry professionals and animation fans gather to celebrate the creativity of this sector. Discover the diversity of styles and animation techniques on the giant screen of Pâquier. Films are screened there for free for the public.