Literature festival in Contis, between dunes and pine forest
Une dune à la page is a literary festival in Contis-Plage, a seaside resort nestled between the dunes and pine forest of the Landes. Every year on Ascension weekend, this event invites the public to meet authors through literary encounters, round tables, book signings, and workshops. The festival gives a special place to children's literature with kamishibai workshops and events for children. Supported by a volunteer association, it promotes literary culture on the Landes coast.
The festival Une dune à la page is a unique literary event that takes place in Contis-Plage, a seaside resort in the municipality of Saint-Julien-en-Born in the Landes region. Born from the desire of three literature enthusiasts — Virginie Lapeyre, creator and manager of the bookstore Au Camion, Frédérique Hardy, literary mediator, and author and actress Léa Wiazemsky — this festival aims to make words resonate between the dunes and maritime pines.
Each edition of the festival offers a dense and varied program, structured around several axes. Literary encounters allow the public to interact directly with invited authors, whether they are novelists, essayists, biographers, or poets. Thematic round tables address the major issues of contemporary literature, while book signing sessions offer a special moment between readers and writers.
Une dune à la page gives a prime place to children's literature. From toddlers to teenagers, young readers have the opportunity to meet children's literature authors, participate in reading workshops, discover kamishibai (Japanese paper theater), and learn creative writing. A partnership with LIJEP (Littérature Jeunesse et Parentalité) enriches each edition with events dedicated to families.
The festival is held at the Maison de la Station in Contis-Plage, a short walk from the Atlantic Ocean. This exceptional natural setting, between fine sandy beaches, wooded dunes, and maritime pine forests, gives the festival a unique and soothing atmosphere. The opening ceremony, exhibitions, and activities take place in this friendly venue, which becomes, for a long weekend, a true literary village.
A popular highlight of the festival, the participatory dictation brings together young and old around an original text read by an invited author. This fun and friendly exercise has become one of the most anticipated events of each edition, combining concentration, good humor, and a love for the French language.
Supported by the association Contis, Une Dune à la Page, the festival relies on the commitment of passionate volunteers who work throughout the year to offer a quality event, open to all and rooted in its territory. Each edition is sponsored by a literary personality, bringing a unique perspective to the program.
Contis-Plage is located in the municipality of Saint-Julien-en-Born, about 30 km north of Mimizan and 100 km south of Bordeaux. From the A63 motorway, take exit Labouheyre then follow the D626 towards Saint-Julien-en-Born and Contis. Free parking is available near the Maison de la Station.
The nearest train station is Labouheyre, about 30 km away. It is advisable to have a vehicle to reach Contis-Plage. Carpooling is encouraged by the organizers.
The festival takes place at the Maison de la Station, 339 rue de la Jetée, 40170 Contis, Saint-Julien-en-Born. Activities are spread across the main hall, outdoor areas, and the terrace overlooking the village.
The festival runs from Thursday to Sunday during the Ascension weekend. The opening ceremony takes place on Thursday evening at 6 PM. Literary encounters and workshops are held daily from 10 AM to 7 PM. Book signing sessions are organized continuously throughout the day.
Access to the festival is completely free for all encounters, book signings, and exhibitions. Some specific workshops may require prior registration on the festival website or on-site.
Food and drink options are available nearby in the village of Contis-Plage. Several shops, bars, and restaurants are within walking distance of the festival venue. You can also bring your own picnic and enjoy the outdoor spaces.
Contis-Plage has campsites, seasonal rentals, and bed and breakfasts. It is recommended to book in advance during the Ascension weekend, a period of high tourist traffic on the Landes coast.
Association Contis, Une Dune à la Page
Official website: unedunealapage.fr
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Maison de la Station de Contis
339 rue de la Jetée, 40170 Saint-Julien-en-Born