Each summer, on the sun-kissed coast of Normandy, the town of Cabourg transforms into a dreamscape of cinema, music, and timeless romance. The Cabourg Romantic Film Festival (Festival du Film Romantique de Cabourg) is not just an event—it’s a celebration of love in all its cinematic forms. Since its creation, it has stood as a beacon of emotional storytelling, attracting filmmakers, actors, and cinephiles from around the world who gather to honor the most universal theme of all: love.
A Romantic History Rooted in Cinema
The festival was founded in 1983 by Gonzague Saint Bris, a passionate writer and cultural visionary who sought to create a space where romantic cinema could be truly celebrated. Unlike other film festivals that might prioritize blockbuster appeal or avant-garde experimentation, Cabourg’s focus has always been clear—highlighting films that touch the heart, spark emotion, and explore the depths of human connection.
Set against the backdrop of Cabourg’s Belle Époque architecture, with its charming promenade and grand hotels, the festival evokes the spirit of a bygone era—elegant, emotional, and enchantingly nostalgic.
The Swann d’Or Awards
At the heart of the festival are the Swann d’Or awards, named after the character Charles Swann from Marcel Proust’s In Search of Lost Time—a novel closely tied to Cabourg’s literary past. These prestigious awards are presented in categories such as:
- Best Romantic Feature
- Best Actor and Actress
- Best Director
- Best Short Film
- Youth Jury Prize
Each award honors not just technical excellence but the emotional resonance of the work. It’s not uncommon for rising stars to be discovered here or for established talents to reveal new depths in their craft.
A Festival of Encounters
The Cabourg Romantic Film Festival is more than just screenings and awards. It’s a meeting place—a crossroads for directors, actors, screenwriters, and audiences. The ambiance is intimate and welcoming, far from the rigid formality of some larger film gatherings. Public screenings on the beach, open-air events, and Q&A sessions make this festival a space of dialogue and discovery.
From candlelit dinners and literary readings to concerts and tributes to romantic icons of cinema, the program is as diverse as it is heartfelt. One moment you may find yourself watching a French classic under the stars; the next, attending a masterclass with an acclaimed filmmaker.
Cabourg: A Romantic Setting for a Romantic Festival
Why Cabourg? Simply put, Cabourg is romance incarnate. With its soft sandy beaches, opulent Grand Hôtel (a favorite of Proust himself), and pastel sunsets over the sea, the town feels like it was made for love stories. Strolling along the Promenade Marcel Proust, one can’t help but feel transported into a scene from an old movie.
During the festival, the entire town becomes a stage. The rhythm of life slows, conversations take on a poetic tone, and there’s a shared sense of wonder as everyone—locals and visitors alike—becomes part of the magic.
When and How to Visit
In 2025, the Cabourg Romantic Film Festival will take place from 11 to 15 June, just as summer begins to bloom along the Normandy coast. Tickets for screenings are available to the public, and many events are accessible without needing a VIP pass. Whether you’re a film enthusiast, a romantic at heart, or simply seeking a soulful experience by the sea, Cabourg in June is calling.
Why It Matters
In a world that often rushes past emotion in favor of spectacle, the Cabourg Romantic Film Festival reminds us of the power of feeling—of stories that move us, characters that linger in our minds, and moments that make our hearts beat faster. It honors not just the art of film, but the art of being human.
Fall in Love with Cinema in Cabourg
To visit the Cabourg Romantic Film Festival is to step into a world where art and emotion dance together on the silver screen. It’s a reminder that romance is not just a genre—it’s a perspective, a celebration of life’s beauty, and a tribute to the stories that stay with us forever.
Whether you’re a long-time lover of romantic films or curious to explore something new, Cabourg welcomes you with open arms—and an open heart.
Here are the best web links about the Cabourg Romantic Film Festival:
Official Website
🌐 Cabourg Film Festival Official Site
(Primary source for program, tickets, and news)
Tourism & Practical Info
📍 Normandy Tourism Page
(For travel/accommodation tips in Cabourg)
Press & Archives
📰 AlloCiné Coverage
(French cinema news/festival reports)
Social Media
📸 Instagram @festivalcabourg
(For visuals and updates)
