Officially the festival is in the 41th year of running, but it wasn't always so big. The origins of the event was a Night of the Year (Nuit de L'Annee) that happened at night in a particular neighborhood. People would setup projections of their images to display on the streets and against the pale limestone walls. Cafes stayed open all night, people discussed the photos and nobody got much sleep.
Les Recontres d'Arles now boasts a series of exhibitions on international photographers that runs through July and September, plus a massive two week program in July with workshops, folio reviews, seminars and guided tours. Expect to see talented photographers from all over France with their folios on display, putting themselves out there for critical review.
Most importantly the city of Arles is central to Provence in the south of France. It's a beautiful city with Roman ruins, a stellar weekend market and quick access to other charming towns around Les Alipilles such as Saint Remy du Provence and the ancient garrison/castle at Les Baux. Worth a visit.
