Belle Époque Festival of Néris-les-Bains

A Journey Through Time in the Heart of a Preserved Spa Town

Every July 14th, the charming spa resort of Néris-les-Bains, in the Allier region, travels back a century to relive the splendors of the Belle Époque. In an architectural setting that has remained virtually intact since the early 20th century, with its elegant facades, tree-lined parks, and the majestic André-Messager Theater, this costumed festival has become a must-attend event in the department. Organized by the Intercommunal Tourist Office, it attracts thousands of visitors each year to share this timeless day.

Costumes, Carriages, and Automobiles from Another Era

The charm of this festival lies in the enthusiastic participation of everyone. Residents, spa guests, and tourists adorn themselves in their finest attire: women wear long crinoline dresses, parasols, and floral hats, while gentlemen don frock coats and top hats. The streets of the spa town feature magnificent vintage cars from the AMVA (Association des Mécaniques du Val d'Allier), period bicycles, and carriage rides. A grand costumed parade in front of the André-Messager Theater is the highlight of the day.

Music, Entertainment, and Popular Traditions

The festival is filled with the sounds of yesteryear: hurdy-gurdies, barrel organs, brass bands, and guinguette tunes echo through the streets and parks. Demonstrations of traditional baton twirling and old games punctuate the day. Children enjoy an old-fashioned carousel where they can ride in a hot air balloon, on an elephant, or in a caravan. Traditional wooden games are set up for the whole family to enjoy. A popular dance concludes this festive day in the purest July 14th tradition.

Over Twenty-Five Years of Festive Tradition

Born in the late 1990s, the Belle Époque Festival of Néris-les-Bains celebrates the exceptional heritage of this spa town whose architecture has endured for decades without major alteration. The town's naturally "Belle Époque" setting, with its thermal baths, gardens, and listed theater, provides an authentic and immersive backdrop. Each edition is a true journey through time, a joyful and elegant interlude that brings all generations together around the memory of a carefree and refined era. The event actively contributes to the tourist appeal of the commune and the Pays de Commentry-Néris.