Cinéma en plein air
Open-air cinema © dizfoto1973 - Adobe Stock

Cinephiles in search of adventure, this message is for you! In November, Nantes transforms itself into the epicenter of international cinema with the Festival des 3 Continents. From November 15 to 23, 2024, the event takes you to the heart of the cultures of Africa, Latin America and Asia. And guess what? This 46th edition is ready to shake things up and introduce you to films from elsewhere, the kind you can't find on streaming platforms!

What is the Festival des 3 Continents in Nantes?

Since it was founded in 1979 by Alain and Philippe Jalladeau, the festival has given pride of place to films often shunned by the mainstream circuits. We're talking about cinematic nuggets which, without the festival, would remain confined to their country of origin. Here, you'll meet the directors who make the world go round, such as Wong Kar-wai and Abbas Kiarostami. The latter revealed themselves here before becoming legends. In short, in Nantes, cinema rhymes with discovery and diversity, and that's not about to change!

What is the program for the Festival des 3 Continents 2024?

The 2024 selection ? We'd call it vitamin-packed! Films from Africa, Latin America and Asia, a variety of genres, fiction, documentaries... There's something to take you on a journey without leaving your seat. You'll experience all kinds of emotions with titles like:

  • "L'Amour existe" by Maurice Pialat (France, 1969) ;
  • "Samia" by Philippe Faucon (France, 2000);
  • Or "Swagger" by Olivier Babinet (France, 2014).

And if you're coming with the family, don't worry, there's also plenty to captivate the younger ones with the selection Premiers pas vers Les 3 Continents selection. Kids aged 3 and over can discover films such as "Kiko et les animaux" and have fun atworkshops on the moving image. There's plenty to keep the little ones busy and the grown-ups enthralled!

Who are the artists taking part in the Festival des 3 Continents à Nantes 2024?

This year's filmmakers and artists will be arriving with projects each more fascinating than the last. Claire Simon will present her brand-new film "Apprendre", while Jean-Pascal Zadi will make you laugh with "Tout simplement noir". Expect fascinating encounters, lively debates and unforgettable moments with those who make independent cinema tick.

How to get to the Festival

Are you in the area? No problem! Nantes is within easy reach, whether you arrive by train, car or plane. Nantes station is just 2 hours from Paris by TGV, and if you're more of a car person, there's plenty of parking available. But we'd also advise you to get out and about by bike , to enjoy the atmosphere of Nantes and the must-sees of the Pays de la Loire region!

Insider tip: to get the most out of the Festival des 3 Continents, be sure to reserve your seats, as some sessions sell out quickly. And don't forget to diversify your choice of films to discover lesser-known cinematographies. In addition to the festival, did you know that Nantes also hosts other film events ? Stereolux, for example, regularly screens independent films, and the Univerciné Festival showcases European cinema. If you're an avid cinema-goer, you'll want to make a note of these events in your Nantes diary.

Where to stay nearby?

Fancy a stylish rest after the screenings? Here are a few good addresses:

  • Hôtel La Pérouse if you like modern design with a touch of arty flair, this is the place to put down your suitcases.
  • Radisson Blu offers luxury and comfort just a stone's throw from the festival. The perfect place for movie buffs who want to combine class and relaxation.
  • Hôtel Voltaire Opéra hotel Voltaire Opéra: the perfect cocoon after a day of films.
  • Sozo Hôtel a hotel in a converted chapel? Now that's originality! Recommended for an unusual and memorable stay.

It's the perfect opportunity to visit Nantes in 2 days!

What are the dates of the Festival des 3 Continents in Nantes 2024?

The Festival des 3 Continents runs from November 15 to 23, 2024. You'll experience eight days of cinematic discoveries, workshops, encounters and great moments. We're telling you: you'll want to save those dates now. Alongside the screenings, you'll be able to take part in debates, masterclasses led by renowned directors, and workshops to better understand the techniques of cinema. Nantes, a city of art and history, is also the perfect place to take a stroll along the banks of the Loire between screenings:

For gourmets, don't hesitate to sample the local specialties in the best restaurants in the city center.


The Festival des 3 Continents takes you on a journey across three continents, all from Nantes! Between the films, the encounters and the unique atmosphere, we bet you'll come away with a lifetime of memories and the desire to explore even more cultures and stories. So, what's your motivation for this cinematic world tour ? And if you're looking for an original getaway, here's where to go for a weekend in France on a budget.