As the weekend of January 23-25 approaches, Montpellier and its surroundings are brimming with captivating events to warm up the winter. Fascinating readings, a film festival, a Miyazaki tribute concert, a charity volleyball match, and a celebration of local beer are all on the program. Discover how to energize your weekend by immersing yourself in one of these unmissable events.
1. The Nights of Reading: Rediscover the Joy of Books From January 21 to 25, the Nights of Reading illuminate the towns and countryside throughout the Hérault region. This event transforms libraries and cultural venues into veritable festivals of reading each year. For this 10th edition, readings aloud, live performances, creative workshops, and immersive experiences will take place all over the region.
In Lunel, for example, the Médard Museum offers a comprehensive program with guided tours of the exhibition “Hidden Treasures! Lunel and its Written Heritage,” workshops for all ages, and much more. In Sète, the André Malraux Media Library offers an immersion in digital culture with video games and virtual reality. The diversity of activities makes this event a must-attend for all word lovers.
2. Christian Film Festival: Screenings Around the Table From January 23 to February 1, the Christian Film Festival takes place in Montpellier with the universal theme “At the Table.” This theme invites participants to explore family and social dynamics around meals through a selection of impactful films. From Thomas Vinterberg’s Festen to Babette’s Feast, each screening becomes an invitation to reflect on the bonds forged during our daily meals. This cinematic exploration of conviviality is not to be missed for those who wish to see this familiar act from a new perspective.
3. Miyazaki’s Music in Concert
On January 25 at 5 p.m., the Grissini Project invites you to immerse yourself in the captivating sounds of Hayao Miyazaki’s films, without the visual aid. At the Salle Pasteur in Montpellier’s Corum, four musicians will pay tribute to animated masterpieces such as Princess Mononoke and Spirited Away, among others. The rich and moving compositions come to life through piano, vocals, violin, and cello, promising an immersive and unforgettable experience. This evening promises to enchant both animation fans and live music lovers. 4. Charity Volleyball Match
On Saturday, January 24, at 8 p.m., the Jacques-Chaban-Delmas Sports Palace in Castelnau-le-Lez will host a charity volleyball match between Montpellier Hérault Sport Club Volleyball and Ajaccio. This Marmara SpikeLigue match combines sport and solidarity through a food drive for the Hérault Food Bank.
Contributing to this cause helps support families in need while enjoying a high-level match. Free entry is offered in exchange for three food items, combining sporting enjoyment with civic engagement.
5. Beer Festival at Popular Brewing For those who want to kick off the weekend on Friday evening, head to downtown Montpellier! On January 23, starting at 5 p.m., Popular Brewing celebrates its seventh anniversary with a festive evening. Seven local breweries, including Le Détour and Brasserie des Garrigues, are joining the festivities for a variety of tastings.
The evening will be enlivened by great music from a DJ, surprise entertainment, and a beer quiz. A perfect way to kick off the weekend in a friendly atmosphere!
To find out more about things to do in Montpellier, feel free to check out other recommendations at this link
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