go to the annual Gypsy festival at Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer in southern France

I spent a month in France. One week in Paris, one week driving mostly back roads to Fayance (NW of Cannes) and two weeks in Southern France. Attending the annual Gypsy Festival was the overall highlight of the entire month. I was moved to tears by the profound-heartfelt event. My female companion and I were so taken with the proceedings that we became participants—-walking in the religious procession that began at the oldtown church and culminated in the ocean. Spectacular! Lovely cordial energy from paraders and the throngs of people lining the streets. Not to be missed if you prize authentic events!
Redcrow:-)

i was there a number of years ago & every may i think about it & want to return. i remember alot of journalists and photographers and many roma feeling quite invaded by them. i’m pretty sure i ended up in a couple books about manouches/tziganes/roma/gypsies.
little did they know i was a girl from montreal that happened to be hanging out by some friends’ caravan with the little goat i fell in love with!
the history of the saints is so interesting & people are playing music & dancing everywhere, but you do have to be very aware of pickpockets & the like.