Avignon en famille: the Festival Off, a whirlwind of shows for young and old alike
By JuliettePublished Updated 5 min read
How about making your summer vacations rhyme with culture, fun and wonder? In July, Avignon becomes Europe's largest open-air theater. The Festival Off, renowned for its richness and creativity, is increasingly making room for children and their families. Shows, workshops, games, walks... the 2025 young audience program promises to be abundant, joyful and accessible from an early age. Follow us as we take you on a tour of a festival where memories - and vocations too - are made from the corner of a stage as much as in the shade of a Provencal plane tree.
Festival Off: a must for families
A major cultural event designed with children in mind
Every July, Avignon becomes the capital of live entertainment. And for some years now, children have been king! In 2025, no fewer than 176 shows for young audiences, programmed in 70 different venues, make the Festival Off Avignon one of the biggest cultural events for families. Theater, music, puppetry, dance, circus... all the performing arts are represented, with creations designed for young audiences from 6 months upwards.
The TADAMM! the place to be for little spectators
Nestled in the heart of the city, the Village TADAMM ! is a space entirely dedicated to children and their families. With creative workshops, reading corners, giant wooden games, discovery stages and even a snack bar, it's the ideal place to take a break between two shows... or to extend the artistic experience in another way. Open daily (except Thursdays), from 12pm to 6pm.
Avignon, a city to (re)discover with the whole family
An exceptional heritage at a child's level
There's much more to Avignon than its festival. The city abounds in treasures to explore with your family:
- The legendary Palais des Papes offers an interactive tour with Histopad (a tablet with augmented reality) and even a treasure hunt.
- As for the Pont d'Avignon, you can discover it both by song and in virtual reality.
- As for museums, don't miss the Requien Museum (complete with tyrannosaurus head cast, please!) or the spectacular Othoniel exhibition, which is on display throughout the city.
💡 Did you know? Avignon has been a Unesco World Heritage Site since 1995, and the city has also been one of the European Capitals of Culture since 2000. So this year marks 30 years and 25 years respectively... Two anniversaries celebrated by its "Terre de Culture 2025" program to be found at here.
Playful experiments to prolong the magic
Want to play detective? Try the "Intrigue dans la ville" treasure hunt, for children aged 6 and over, to investigate and explore the narrow streets of Avignon. The game can be purchased at the Tourist Office or at its site. Allow around three hours. And for a breathtaking view of the city of the Popes, we recommend a trip to the Barthelasse island. An island? You're probably wondering how to get there. It's easy, just hop on the free river shuttle... the perfect way to see the city from a different angle. During the festival, the shuttle runs every day from 11:00 to 20:45.
💡 Flooded, the Barthelasse island has resisted urbanization and offers a natural environment conducive to relaxation and strolls. Take advantage of the towpath for breathtaking views of the Pont d'Avignon, the Palais des Papes and the Rocher des Doms. Cycling fans, take a tour of the island: there are many cycle paths and... it's all flat!
Shows and workshops for all ages
A rich program, from 6 months to 14 years old
The strength of the Festival Off lies in its diversity. Toddlers can discover their first sensory shows, such as Minimus or Le Jardin de Dahi, while older children are enthralled by engaged plays, musicals and circus shows. The program is sorted by age in the guide for young audiences of the festival, from "from 6 months" to "from 14 years": ideal for finding your way around.
Workshops to awaken talent
What if your kids became artists for a day? The TADAMM Village offers a wide range of artistic workshops! You'll also find games, discovery stages and relaxation areas for waiting between shows. There's something for everyone.
💡 Les Petites Choses - Creative resourcerie offers an origami workshop based on posters from previous seasons. A great way to have fun while making a commitment to the ecological transition.
Our tips for a successful family getaway
Before you leave, think practical!
The cultural offer is dense... so it's best to get organized. The guide for young audiences is available in line or at festival reception points. For reduced rates, the TADAMM! card (€5 for under-14s) is a really good idea: it entitles you to discounts on shows, workshops and partners for young audiences.
Get the right equipment to get the most out of your trip
In July, the sun is beating down on Avignon. Remember to pack caps, water bottles, sunglasses... and of course, sun cream (organic and suitable for children's skin, of course 🌞 ). A small snack, a map of the festival and a light bag will also be among your best allies. And if you're feeling tired, head to the TADAMM! Village for a well-deserved break.
In Avignon, culture is everywhere, and it's a family affair. The Festival Off is a feast for the eyes, ears... and heart. It's the perfect way for children to discover the magic of live entertainment, in an enchanting setting. Your little spectators and artists will come away with stars in their eyes, with or without a show. Glitter powder.
