Contes en Hiver Festival
The art of storytelling in the heart of winter in the Hautes-Pyrénées
About Contes en Hiver
Created in 1996 on the initiative of the CRIC-CRAC company, a federal troupe of the Ligue de l'Enseignement des Hautes-Pyrénées, the Contes en Hiver Festival is a traveling festival that unfolds the art of storytelling throughout the department for three weeks in winter. From media libraries to community halls, from libraries to cultural spaces, professional storytellers offer shows for all ages, from toddlers to adults. The festival highlights the importance of the spoken word and oral tradition in a spirit of sharing and conviviality.
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Contes en Hiver: The Art of the Spoken Word in the Heart of Winter
Every year in January and February, the Contes en Hiver Festival takes over the Hautes-Pyrénées for three weeks of storytelling performances. Supported by the Ligue de l'Enseignement des Hautes-Pyrénées (FOL 65), this traveling festival was born in 1996 from the initiative of the CRIC-CRAC company, the result of fifteen years of work around the art of storytelling.
A Traveling Festival
The strength of Contes en Hiver lies in its traveling nature. The shows take place in media libraries, libraries, community centers, and town halls throughout the department, from Tarbes to the most remote villages. This itinerant approach brings the art of storytelling closer to the residents.
Professional Storytellers
Each edition invites renowned professional storytellers who offer shows suitable for all ages. Performances alternate between sessions for young audiences (from 5 years old) and evenings for adults, exploring various themes: traditional tales, travel stories, fantasy narratives, testimonials, and intimate accounts.
An Anticipated Winter Event
With over thirty editions under its belt, Contes en Hiver has established itself as a major cultural event of the Bigorre winter, remaining true to its mission of promoting the art of the spoken word and oral transmission.
Contes en Hiver — edition 2026
The 31st edition of the Contes en Hiver Festival takes place from January 31 to February 15, 2026. The theme 'Il était un·e moi' explores stories of children discovering the world, curious sprites, and rarely heard voices.
31st Edition - 'Il était un·e moi'
The Contes en Hiver Festival returns for its 31st edition from January 31 to February 15, 2026, with the theme 'Il était un·e moi'. On the program: stories of children discovering the world, curious sprites, caravan travelers, and rarely heard voices.
Highlights Contes en Hiver 2026
Highlights of the 2026 Edition
- 31st edition - Theme: 'Il était un·e moi'
- From January 31 to February 15, 2026
- Shows at the Médiathèque Louis Aragon and the Bibliothèque Nelson Mandela in Tarbes
Prices Contes en Hiver 2026
Practical information — Contes en Hiver
Practical Information
Venues
The shows take place in numerous locations in the Hautes-Pyrénées: media libraries, libraries, community centers, town halls. The venues vary each year. Consult the detailed program.
Prices
Many sessions are free upon registration. Opening evenings: full price €15, reduced price €10.
Booking
Registration is mandatory for free sessions with the relevant media libraries and libraries.
Contact
- Ligue de l'Enseignement des Hautes-Pyrénées (FOL 65)
- Tarbes
- Website: www.contesenhiver.com
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Travel to this festival
Book your train or bus to reach Contes en Hiver at the best price.
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Where does it take place — Contes en Hiver
Divers lieux des Hautes-Pyrénées