Parc des Expositions is a state-of-the-art exhibition and convention centre on the outskirts of Avignon. It hosts many large-scale events, including music concerts, sporting matches and hobbyist exhibitions such as car and motorbike shows. Come here to search for bargains at antique fairs, watch sporting teams play or admire works by local or international artists in an exhibition. Attend a trade fair to see what’s new in anything from motor sports to health food.
This impressive exposition centre covers 296,000 square feet (27,500 square metres) and features 12 exhibition halls and a large outdoor area. Numerous important conferences are held every year in the centre’s large capacity halls. The largest of the halls can seat nearly 1,000 people. The centre also provides office space for several local and national businesses.
Look at the programme on the Parc des Expositions official website to see which events coincide with your visit. With 12 exhibition spaces, you will almost certainly find something to suit your tastes. Car enthusiasts will enjoy the annual vintage motor vehicle festival held in March, when the space is filled with more than 2,500 classic vehicles. Music fans should browse the list of upcoming concerts. Book a ticket and be entertained by famous performers from all over the world.
Other annual events include antique fairs, painting exhibitions and food fairs, so you’ll never be short of something to keep you entertained. The centre also hosts several conferences and some of these are open to the public. If something interests you, be sure to ask the staff if you can attend.
Parc des Expositions is located southeast of Avignon, next to the city’s airport. It takes 15 minutes to get here by TGV from central Avignon and just 30 minutes from Marseille.
Head into Avignon itself and admire the stone walls that encircle the town. Tour the medieval Palais des Papes, which housed a series of popes in the 14th century. It is the largest Gothic palace in the world.