Festival de la Correspondance de Grignan

The cradle of French epistolary art

The Festival de la Correspondance de Grignan was born in 1996, the year of the tricentenary of Madame de Sévigné's death, on the initiative of Bruno Durieux, then mayor of Grignan. This unique cultural adventure opened up a literary field hitherto little explored by festivals: that of correspondence, a literary genre in its own right which has since seen growing enthusiasm among readers, authors, publishers, and actors.

An exceptional historical setting

The festival unfolds in the majestic setting of the Château de Grignan, one of the largest Renaissance castles in southeastern France. It was within these walls that Madame de Sévigné stayed with her daughter, the Countess of Grignan, and it was from there that she sent many of her letters that have become classics of French literature. The castle courtyard, the Saint-Vincent chapel, the Cours Sévigné, and the village squares become open-air stages for readings, shows, and encounters.

A rich and eclectic program

Each edition of the festival revolves around a theme that renews the perspective on epistolary art. Readings-performances by renowned actors bring correspondence from writers, artists, historical figures, or anonymous individuals to life. Literary encounters bring together authors, essayists, and historians to explore the multiple facets of the letter, from postcards to emails, including diaries and mood pieces.

The Writing Rooms, workshops led by writers, invite the public to take up their pens and experiment with epistolary writing. A book market brings together specialized booksellers and publishers, while exhibitions, screenings, and concerts complete this multidisciplinary program.

A recognized and supported festival

The association Festival de la Correspondance de Grignan, recognized as being of general interest, carries this event with the support of numerous public and private partners, including the Fondation La Poste, a historical patron of the festival. In nearly thirty years, the festival has established itself as an essential event in French literary life, attracting thousands of visitors passionate about literature and epistolary art each year to this jewel of Drôme provençale.

The 2026 edition: the 400th anniversary of Madame de Sévigné

The 30th edition of the festival, scheduled from July 6 to 11, 2026, will celebrate the 400th anniversary of Madame de Sévigné's birth around the theme "Correspondence, portrait of an era". An exceptional event that promises to create a dialogue between centuries and pay tribute to the most illustrious letter writer in the French language.