Open Canoë Festival

The European capital of canoeing

The Open Canoë Festival is the premier European event dedicated to recreational canoeing and river touring. Since 2010, it has brought together nearly 600 participants from all over Europe each year in the small village of Mirabel-et-Blacons, nestled in the heart of the Drôme valley, between Lyon and Avignon, about thirty kilometers from Valence.

The Drôme River, an exceptional playground

The Drôme River, one of France's last wild rivers, offers over 30 km of accessible and scenic routes for canoeing. Its turquoise waters, pebble beaches, and preserved natural setting make it an ideal playground for paddle enthusiasts. The festival takes advantage of this exceptional setting to offer guided descents and group outings in a friendly atmosphere.

Workshops, testing, and meetings

The heart of the festival consists of a program of technical and safety workshops led by renowned river guides. Participants can test the latest models of canoes and equipment from the manufacturers and distributors present with their stands. It's a unique opportunity to test boats, improve skills, and share experiences with other paddling enthusiasts.

Friendliness and festive spirit

The Open Canoë Festival is distinguished by its friendly and festive atmosphere. Meals, prepared with local Drôme products, and evenings are held under a magnificent giant tipi that serves as a gathering place. A grand lottery with exceptional prizes, film screenings, and moments of sharing punctuate the evenings. The community spirit and the joy of the outdoors are at the heart of the event.

An international event

The Open Canoë Festival attracts participants from all over Europe: France, the United Kingdom, Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland, Italy, and beyond. This international dimension makes it a unique meeting place for the canoeing community, where beginners and experienced paddlers, manufacturers and artisans, guides and adventurers cross paths. Online registrations are often full several weeks before the event.