July 14 in Sarlat: fireworks, dances, and festivities in the Périgord Noir
July 14 in the Dordogne is a national holiday with a special atmosphere. Set against the golden stone of medieval bastides and the banks of the Dordogne River, the festivities unfold in a naturally dramatic setting. From our 4-star campground Les Grottes de Roffy, you’re ideally situated to enjoy the July 14 events in Sarlat and throughout the Périgord Noir—without having to drive for hours.
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July 14 in Sarlat-la-Canéda: a national holiday in the heart of the medieval town
Sarlat-la-Canéda, just a few minutes from the campground, is the main venue for the celebrations. The national holiday takes on a special atmosphere there: the cobblestone streets, the mansions built of pale limestone, the bustling squares—the town’s medieval setting lends itself perfectly to this communal celebration.
On the evening of July 14, fireworks and a community dance set the tone for the night. The central square comes alive, the music carries far, and locals—as well as vacationers—gather to celebrate together. It’s one of those simple, heartfelt moments you don’t easily forget: children gazing up at the sky, adults raising their glasses, the night lighting up for the duration of a fireworks display.
Be sure to check the exact schedule and program withthe Sarlat tourist office or on the city’s website—details may vary from year to year.
Fireworks and community dances around the campground
July 14 isn’t just an evening in Sarlat. The entire Dordogne region celebrates in its own way, and the surrounding villages compete to be the most welcoming. It’s a wonderful opportunity to combine festivities with activities and exploration in the Périgord Noir — the region has plenty to offer to fill your days before the evening fireworks.
In Carlux, Montignac, and Terrasson: The Dordogne is celebrating
Several towns near the Roffy Caves host their own events: concerts, outdoor performances, and lively dances along the river.
- Terrasson-Lavilledieu also offers a festive evening featuring dances and bonfires, in the same lively, family-friendly spirit found in all the villages of the Périgord Noir.
- Carlux, just a few miles away, regularly hosts a dance and fireworks display in a warm and intimate atmosphere.
- Montignac, the gateway to Lascaux, celebrates Bastille Day with events in the town center anda fireworks display launched from the hills —offering a breathtaking view of the valley.
Lavilledieu and the surrounding area: events you won't want to miss
Lavilledieu and other small towns in the region bring their town squares and riverbanks to life for Bastille Day. It is often at these village events, far from the big crowds, that you’ll find the best of a traditional French Bastille Day: a band, a few lanterns, and tables set up under the plane trees.
Plan your evening from the Roffy Caves
To find a complete list of concerts, shows, and fireworks displays scheduled around Sarlat, we invite you to check the local event calendars —the Périgord Noir Tourist Office’s calendar serves as a comprehensive guide to the region’s festivals and events. There, you can filter events by town or date and find what best suits your interests.
Sarlat is just a ten-minute drive from our campground. On the evening of July 14, simply park your car and let the atmosphere sweep you away. Before or after the fireworks, the streets of Sarlat are perfect for a leisurely culinary stroll: the local restaurants and producers of the Périgord invite you to extend your evening with a delicious meal.
For a vacation focused on summer festivities in the Dordogne, book your stay at Les Grottes de Roffy as soon as possible —July in the Périgord Noir is a very popular time of year.
Published on May 9, 2026