Fireworks on Île de Ré: the best shows of the summer
Every summer, the towns on Île de Ré organize fireworks displays to celebrate Bastille Day and other festive events throughout the season. Saint-Martin-de-Ré, La Couarde-sur-Mer, La Flotte… each village has its own dates and setting. From the La Plage campground, you’re just a short bike ride away from the island’s main fireworks display sites.
Table of Contents
July 14: A highlight on the island
National Day is undoubtedly the most festive occasion of the year on the island. The towns come alive as soon as night falls: community dances, outdoor concerts, illuminated promenades…The atmosphere is both friendly and warm, true to the spirit of the island. The fireworks display that closes the evening draws a large crowd every year from all corners of the island and the region, with everyone looking up at the sky.
The towns that light up the sky over Ré
Saint-Martin-de-Ré
Saint-Martin-de-Ré is probably the most iconic spot to watch the fireworks. Launched from the ramparts or over the harbor, the pyrotechnic displays reflect off the water, creating a breathtaking view. The crowds fill the docks, the terraces come alive, and the old town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, takes on an almost surreal quality under the bursts of light.
La Couarde-sur-Mer
La Couarde-sur-Mer also offers its own summer activities, in a more family-friendly atmosphere. The beach naturally becomes a favorite gathering spot: people settle down on the sand, listen to music, and wait together for the first burst of light. It’s a simple moment, but one that stays with you for a long time.
La Flotte and the other villages
La Flotte is another town known for its summer events. Its fishing port and flower-lined streets provide a particularly charming setting for evening performances. Other towns on the island are also on the festival calendar: every village has its own way of celebrating summer, and that is precisely what makes the season on Ré so rich. The towns’ websites remain the best sources of information. Exact dates and detailed programs are regularly updated there.
Enjoy the fireworks from La Plage Campground
Located just 100 meters from the beach, La Plage Campground puts you right in the heart of Ré Island’s summer festivities. The main fireworks display sites are just a few minutes away by bike, making every fireworks show a true vacation outing, free from the hassles of parking or long commutes. After the show, you can be back at your mobile home in Ars-en-Ré in just a few minutes—a convenience that spectators traveling from farther away particularly appreciate.
We encourage you to check the schedules posted weekly at the front desk, as well as the official websites of the local municipalities, to find out the exact dates of the fireworks displays and related events. The information changes from year to year, so it’s best to check in advance so you don’t miss anything.
Our tips for planning a great party
Arrive early to get a good spot, especially on July 4, when there are lots of spectators. Bring a blanket in case it gets chilly at night, and don’t forget to pack some snacks: family outings often last longer than expected. Kids especially love being in the front row on the beach or by the water.
Take the opportunity to stroll through the villages before the show: enjoy a drink along the waterfront in Saint-Martin, grab an ice cream in La Flotte, or take a walk through the pine forests toward La Couarde… These moments in between activities are also part of the island’s vacation spirit.
To make sure you get the most out of summer on Île de Ré, we recommend booking your stay well in advance: the weeks around July 14 are in high demand. Discover all the activities on Île de Ré that you can enjoy from our campground, and let summer do the rest.
Published on May 9, 2026