World-Renowned PAD Design Fair Chooses Saint-Tropez for Its Riviera Debut

 

Saint-Tropez is set to reinforce its position as one of the Mediterranean’s most influential cultural destinations this summer as the prestigious PAD Design Fair makes its highly anticipated debut in the iconic village.

Taking place from July 2 to July 5, 2026, PAD Saint-Tropez will transform the historic Maison Jean Despas on the legendary Place des Lices into a showcase of exceptional historical and contemporary design, bringing together some of the world’s leading galleries, collectors, architects, decorators, and design enthusiasts.

Supported by the City of Saint-Tropez, the inaugural event marks a significant milestone for PAD, which has established itself as the world’s premier fair dedicated to collectible design. Having enjoyed a successful presence in Paris for 28 years and London for 18 years, the fair’s arrival on the French Riviera reflects both Saint-Tropez’s growing cultural significance and the region’s appeal to an international audience with a passion for art, craftsmanship, and design excellence.

PAD has long distinguished itself through its rigorous curatorial standards and its unique ability to bridge historical masterpieces with contemporary innovation. The Saint-Tropez edition will continue that tradition, presenting an exclusive selection of approximately twenty leading French and international galleries specializing in collectible design and artists’ jewellery.

Among the first exhibitors announced are respected names from across Europe and beyond, including Julia Munoz Portuondo from Spain, Jacques Lacoste, Dutko, Elie Top, JAG, Opera Gallery, Stéphanie Coutas, Maison Parisienne, Gastou and Karry Berreby from France, Tristan Hoare from the United Kingdom, Bessa Pereira and Galeria da Estrela from Portugal, Veta Stefanidou Tsoukala from Greece, House of Today from Lebanon, and the internationally renowned Carpenters, which operates across France, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

The choice of Place des Lices as the event’s setting is particularly fitting. Widely regarded as the heart of Saint-Tropez, the famous square embodies the village’s blend of heritage, elegance, and international appeal. The Maison Jean Despas will provide a refined backdrop for a fair that has become synonymous with design excellence and collectible artistry. 

The event will open with a private inauguration on Thursday, July 2, before welcoming the public from Friday, July 3 through Sunday, July 5. Opening hours will run daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

In a gesture designed to strengthen ties with the local community, residents of the twelve communes of the Golfe de Saint-Tropez will enjoy free admission throughout the event upon presentation of proof of residency. Admission for the inauguration is set at €50 per person, while public access from July 3 to July 5 will be €20 per person.

For Saint-Tropez, the arrival of PAD represents far more than another summer event. It signals the growing recognition of the destination as a serious cultural hub capable of attracting world-class exhibitions and international creative talent.

For visitors and residents alike, PAD Saint-Tropez promises four days of exceptional design, artistic discovery, and a rare opportunity to engage with some of the most influential galleries shaping the global collectible design market today.

Further information is available from PAD Saint-Tropez Official Website.