Soirée Vénitienne

The unmissable event of the summer in Martigues

The Soirée Vénitienne is undoubtedly the most anticipated event of the summer in Martigues. Every year, on the first Saturday of July, the city of canals adorns itself in its finest attire to offer a grandiose spectacle combining an illuminated nautical procession and a pyromelodic fireworks display. The event, ranked among the four major festivals of the city, attracts tens of thousands of spectators from all over the Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur region to experience this magical night on the shores of the Étang de Berre.

The nautical procession: a magical parade on the water

The evening begins at 10 PM with the nautical procession, a parade of about ten decorated and illuminated boats that navigate through the canals of Martigues. The procession starts from the Pointe San-Crist, follows the Canal Galliffet, and returns to its starting point, offering an enchanting spectacle to the spectators gathered on the quays and bridges. The boats, adorned with fairy lights and thematic decorations, glide slowly on the water, creating magical reflections reminiscent of the Venetian festivals from which Martigues derives its nickname of Provençal Venice.

The pyromelodic show: when the sky ignites the lagoon

At 11 PM, the grand pyromelodic show ignites the Martigues sky. Produced by the pyrotechnicians of Groupe F, a world reference in artistic pyrotechnics, this fireworks display is fired from the Étang de Berre and the Théâtre de Verdure. For over thirty minutes, bombs, fountains, and luminous cascades synchronize with a carefully composed soundtrack, creating a true total spectacle where music, light, and water reflections blend in a striking harmony. More than just a fireworks display, it is a moment of collective emotion that marks every Martigues summer.

A popular and unifying event

The Soirée Vénitienne is a free and accessible event for everyone, true to the popular spirit of Martigues. The three districts of the city center are closed to traffic from 8 PM to midnight, allowing the public to stroll freely along the quays. Entertainment, refreshments, and food are offered throughout the evening. The event takes place in all weather conditions, with no postponement possible in case of bad weather, demonstrating the city's determination to offer this annual event to its residents and visitors.