The French Loire Valley concerts make the music reachable and encourages discovery of the local musicians and, of course, its fabulous wine and food.

Tours, France, in the heart of the Loire Valley may be well known for its castles but don’t forget the music, the wine and, of course, the food.

In fact, every summer, you can experience short mid-day concerts and free local food tasting in the Loire Valley town in an incredibly charming and friendly setting.

The objective of the Loire Valley music concerts is to make the music reachable and to encourage discovery of the local area’s musicians and, of course, its food. Thus, the concerts are intimate, short (30 minutes), and very affordable at only about 6 EUR per person. They are put on by the Diabolus in Musica group based there.

HITT TIP: The hall does not have air conditioning so take a fan if the day is a hot one. And do arrive early to get a good seat. These are popular events.

Loire Valley music offers food tasting too

Ah, and then you get to experience free food tasting of local specialties in the courtyard, from wine to cheese and sausages. Mingle with the locals under umbrellas in the shadows of the Salle Ockeghem, smack in the center of the town of Tours.

Don’t worry about the genre of music for these Loire Valley concerts – just go to enjoy the local atmosphere and a little French degustation of local products. Then skip off to do as the French do – have a leisurely lunch with a chilled glass of Loire Valley wine.

Not there in July for the Loire Valley music concerts? No worries. There is always something going on — or just wander the quaint town full of half-timber buildings and history.

HITT TIP: You don’t need to venture far to get a nice lunch meal. Head across the street to Chez Paulette restaurant and wine bar for friendly service and an inexpensive menu (a set lunch with 2 or more courses). Salut!

Therese and her friend Uli enjoying a delicious meal at Chez Paulette restaurant and wine bar.