Unmissable November events in France: art, history, and early festive magic

1. Singer Sargent at the Orsay

While revered by art lovers in the US, the work and life of Florence-born American painter John Singer Sargent (1856-1925), remains largely unknown in France – despite the fact that it was here that the young painter received his training, developing his style and network of artists.

The Musée d’Orsay in Paris aims to rectify that with the first-ever monographic exhibition devoted to him in France.

Designed in partnership with the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York, the exhibition “Sargent. Dazzling Paris” brings together more than 90 works, including some that have never been exhibited in France. Among them is his then-scandalous Portrait of Madame X, from 1883-1884 and Dans le jardin du Luxembourg, 1879 (pictured, above).

Runs until January 11, 2026.

2. Travel the world in Rochefort

Maison de Pierre Loti, which is one of the most unique and fascinating small museums in France, has reopened following extensive renovations.

Located in Rochefort, Charente Maritime, the home of adventurous 19th Century naval officer and travel writer Pierre Loti, was gradually transformed into an exotic gem by the collector of rare objects, wall hangings, exotic furniture and decor – all brought back from his travels to the four corners of the earth. Unmissable are the Turkish lounge, Japanese pagoda, Gothic hall, and the Oceanic Room – the oldest of Loti’s installations in which he recreated his cabin on the Flore, the ship on which he sailed the Pacific in 1872.

In 1969, the town of Rochefort bought the house from Loti’s son Samuel. It became a municipal museum in 1973 and is now listed as a Historic Monument.

The museum can only be visited as part of a guided tour, and booking is required.

3. Revel in the art of rain

Connexion readers missing the British rain should make a beeline for Nantes, where a major exhibition at the city’s Museum of Art looks at the sensation and representation of rain that emerged in art at the end of the 18th century.

“A literary subject, an object of scientific study, tamed by city dwellers in modernised cities, rain has become a motif for painters, photographers, filmmakers and even contemporary artist,” says the museum of the exhibition, which will bring together nearly 150 paintings, drawings, prints, lithographs, photographs and more, with works by Turner and Monet among the selection.

Sous la pluie, peindre, vivre et rêver (In the Rain, Painting, Living and Dreaming) runs from November 1 to March 1 2026. It is co-produced with the Musée des Beaux-arts de Rouen, and will move to the Normandy town in spring 2026.

4. Dreaming of a French Christmas

Embrace the festive spirit nice and early – and in stunning surroundings – this year, by heading to Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte for its 20th annual ‘Grand Noël’ seasonal spectacular.

From November 15, ‘a thousand and one decorations and illuminations will transport you into a magical world of marvel and wonder’, says the chateau. Upon arrival, visitors will be wrapped in a red velvet cape, before heading inside to enjoy the festive atmosphere – crackling fires, lavish decorations in the state rooms, and an immersive 360° projection in the Grand Salon.

The gardens are equally magical and transformed into a veritable enchanted kingdom, with a range of activities for young and old alike: a captivating treasure hunt for children and marshmallows to roast over the fire. Runs until January 4, 2026.