What to do in Bordeaux in October? Activities and events to discover

Manga, talks, martial arts, concerts, cosplay, video games, and more. It’s simple: with this year’s Animasia lineup, you won’t know where to look first. This 22nd edition takes us on a journey to discover Korea and its treasures! Whether you’re a fan or just curious, the Animasia festival serves up the best of Asian culture on a silver platter!

To kick off fall with a thrill, there’s nothing quite like a Bordeaux Boxers ice hockey game. Dive into the heart of the action and feel the energy of the stands for a guaranteed electrifying experience. Hurry—tickets are selling out fast! Pick a friend to cheer with and book your tickets now. Here’s an insider tip: grab seats up high to take in the full strategy of the game—the view is spectacular!

For an outing that’s as immersive as it is spectacular this October, dive into the heart of the legend with the exhibition “Titanic: A Journey Through Time.” Bordeaux transports you aboard the famous ocean liner thanks to life-size recreations—including its iconic grand staircase—and 3D technology. From the splendor of the crossing to the poignant tale of its sinking, explore the ship’s decks before delving into the depths through a unique virtual reality experience. A captivating odyssey for young and old alike.

Sing along to 25 Céline Dion hits at the Fémina—sparkles guaranteed! For an October evening that everyone will love, head to the Théâtre Fémina in Bordeaux on Friday, October 2, for a Céline Dion tribute karaoke night. On the program: 25 songs to sing along to during a show hosted by Lady Prudence and Elips.

In October, it’s madness in the libraries! “Biblis en folie” returns for the third edition of the National Days dedicated to libraries and media centers. On the program: an aerial circus show, an escape game following in the footsteps of an herbalist,a storytelling session about a colorful dinosaur, and a comic book workshop that transports you to Quebec. A festive and friendly event for the whole family to enjoy , at participating libraries and media centers.

Want to add a touch of greenery to your fall? The urban garden center Plantes Pour Tous is hosting a Big Plant Sale in October in Bordeaux. On the agenda: over 150 varieties of houseplants starting at €0.99, ranging from the most delicate to those that require little maintenance. You’re sure to find something you love, whether you have a green thumb… or not.

Organized by the association La 25e Image, the Social Film Festival blends cinema with a social perspective. In Gironde, the 2026 edition features screenings in Bordeaux, Bazas, Coutras, Pessac, Sainte-Foy-la-Grande, and Talence. Through a selection of films, the event invites viewers to take a fresh look atthe experiences of people facing social hardship and those who support them.

What if you could relive your childhood this October ? Thrilling rides , miniature trains, and delicious treats: the Foire aux Plaisirs is back at Place des Quinconces! From October 9 to November 1, 2026, enjoy 80 rides spread across 60,000 m², with attractions for all ages and food stalls.

Let’s all get involved! Remember that breast cancer remains, unfortunately, the most common cancer among women and the leading cause of death (over 12,000 deaths per year). However, each of us can help fight the disease through prevention and screening. A charity run will be held for the occasion: the famous Pink Ribbon Challenge. Last year, nearly 25,000 of us participated—let’s do even better this year! Meet us on the riverfront for the race and at Place de la Maison Éco Citoyenne for the festival village and its activities.

Immerse yourself in a show where dinosaurs come to life. Add this to your October itinerary: the exhibition “Prehistoric Planet: Dinosaurs—The Immersive Experience ” opens at the Bassins des Lumières in Bordeaux on October 3, 2026. A visual and auditory journey that transports us back to the age of dinosaurs, immersing young and old alike in spectacular and realistic scenes.

October usually means cozy evenings on the couch in front of the TV… So why not step right through the screen for a unique experience? The Candlelight Concerts invite you to experience a moment suspended in time to the sound of the greatest classics. By the glow of thousands of candles and in an intimate setting, get ready for an evening filled with magic and wonder.

Among the cultural events not to be missed in Bordeaux this October, the Bordeaux Arts Festival (FAB) stands out as an international must-see. It returns to Bordeaux from September 26 to October 10 with a simple concept: to introduce us to art and its expression in all its forms—and always in unexpected ways. Dance, theater, music, visual arts… Bordeaux becomes the stage for numerous performances, concerts, participatory projects, gatherings, and celebrations, all coming together in a masterful blend of artistic cultures.

Film lovers and the curious: here’s an event that’s sure to brighten up your October. The Animation Film Festival takes over the Cinéma La Lanterne for fifteen days of screenings and discoveries. The event will kick off with a preview screening of *Le Corset* by Louis Clichy and will feature special highlights such as a screening of *Spirited Away* and a Halloween movie and snack party.

Visit the region’s châteaux by starlight and candlelight for a unique heritage and sensory experience. La Nuit des Châteaux offers nighttime tours and entertainment at several estates in Nouvelle-Aquitaine, providing an opportunity to rediscover the region’s heritage, legends, and wines in a whole new way. The 2026 edition takes place from October 16 to 18, with programs and prices varying by château.

For a major electronic music event to add to your October calendar, Sonora is celebrating its second anniversary on October 16 and 17, 2026, at the Parc des Expositions in Bordeaux. On the agenda: 20,000 m² dedicated to electronic music, two XXL hangars, over 400 m² of LED screens, and an international techno lineup. The parties start at 5 p.m. and run until 4 a.m., featuring headliners such as Nina Kraviz, Ben Klock, and I Hate Models.

Six days of Périgord cuisine await food lovers this October. From October 19 to 24, 2026, the first edition of La Semaine des Chefs will take over the Dordogne, with some thirty restaurants offering exclusive regional menus at fixed prices (two options at €38 and €48). The added bonus? €1 per meal will be donated to a local charity.

Because Bordeaux isn’t just about wine and cannelés—the best coffee shop in France is right here in the capital of the Gironde! The verdict was announced on September 14 following the Paris Coffee Show, awarding Moko Coffee Shop the title of Best Coffee Shop in France 2026, as well as the Goûtu sacré award for Best Food & Beverage Experience.

From mythical figures to feminist icons, via the frenzied witch hunts of the past, witches are taking over the Musée d’Aquitaine. Starting October 16, discover the history of witchcraft in Aquitaine through an exceptional exhibition. Awarded the “Exhibition of National Interest” designation by the Ministry of Culture,“Tremble, Tremble! The Witches Are Among Us” is open to visitors ages 15 and up.

Prison Island Season 2 – La Jungle invites you to tackle the challenges of the lost city as a team. Strategy, agility, logic—pool your skills in an ultra-immersive action game. Once the challenges are complete, extend the fun with a game of bowling, a song at a private karaoke session, or even a round of indoor mini-golf.

The undisputed master of prose and flow, Orelsan will take the stage in Bordeaux for two additional dates on his 2026 tour. It’s the perfect opportunity to once again revel in the talent of this rapper from Normandy and add an unmissable concert to your October itinerary in Bordeaux.

For an extraordinary October evening, head to the Château Théâtre Descas in Bordeaux for an immersive show blending cabaret, theater, and crime fiction. As guests at Jean Descas’s ball, dive into the Roaring Twenties until a murder turns everything upside down. Follow your intuition and gather clues to piece together your own version of the story and take part in the final vote.

Thrill-seekers, darkness hunters, budding adventurers, and those with a sweet tooth…The most spine-chilling night of the year is almost here. Whether with family or friends, enjoy the city’s many terrifying activities. Fromhaunted walks and nerve-wracking escape games to costume parties and a magical forest, Bordeaux celebrates Halloween in style.

For a gourmet getaway surrounded by nature this October, head to Pampa, the new contemporary French bistro nestled on a historic estate right in the heart of the city. Enjoy its 1.5-hectare wooded park, as well as its vegetable garden and beautiful terrace, weather permitting. The chef serves seasonal, homemade cuisine, sourcing ingredients from local artisans and producers.