Embrun, a sporting and cultural city
Embrun is also home to major sporting and cultural events whose fame extends (far) beyond the borders of Serre-Ponçon.
Embrun, there’s going to be some sport!
Challenges for seasoned athletes, but not only. Embrun puts its all into the fun for everyone, athletes and fans alike.
Outdoor Mix Festival (June)
THE early season event (the biggest in the department) which combines outdoor sports competitions and introductions for the general public (freestyle kayaking, mountain biking, paragliding, skateboarding, trail running and many others), and live music concert evenings (rock, reggae, hip-hop, world music, etc.).
Embrunman (August 15)
An essential "Triathlon of Extremes" for 40 years (one of the toughest in the world with a 3,8 km swim, 186 km bike ride with a steep climb and a 42,2 km marathon), the Embrunman brings together top-level athletes every year on August 15.
The Grand Trail of Serre-Ponçon (September)
Between technical trails and breathtaking panoramas, the different routes take in the emblematic peaks of the region, including Mont Guillaume.
After a hiatus in 2025, the Grand Trail returns in September 2026 with new race formats and a new concept.
Embrun, host country of the Tour de France
Embrun has a long history with the Tour de France, having served as a starting point seven times. Since 1973, the Hautes-Alpes city has hosted notable stages, including in 2008, 2013, 2017, 2019, and most recently in 2024.
Its varied terrain and exceptional setting make it an essential part of the Grande Boucle, attracting cycling enthusiasts and passionate spectators.
Embrun, culture and you
Major events that have made Embrun's cultural reputation, as well as numerous exhibitions, conferences, talks, and meetings. A detailed review.
Open dance scenes (June)
Shows, initiations or dance evenings... More than twenty disciplines take to the streets and the stage in the city center: world dances, urban, modern, traditional, folk, sports...
Descent of the raftsmen (June)
Historical reenactment celebrating the ancient practice of transporting wood (logs or limbed tree trunks) by floating on the Durance River (from the Middle Ages to the early 20th century). Dressed in period costumes, these raftsmen of memory navigate their traditional boats as they did in the past. The Pont-Neuf and the dike of the Embrun lake (the rafts' arrival point) offer privileged viewpoints. The raftsman's profession is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Trad'In Festival (July)
An eclectic program for three concert evenings combining world music, rock, electronic music, etc. Numerous activities during the day.
Embrun Medieval Festival (August)
Numerous street entertainment (strolls, troubadours, fights, etc.) and a market of local producers and artisans. Not to be missed.
