Bonnu en Sorcellerie

The Witch of Bonnu, a Revived Berry Tradition

Bonnu en Sorcellerie is a popular festival created in 1995 in the hamlet of Bonnu, nestled on the edge of Lake Éguzon, in the commune of Cuzion, in the Indre department. Originally, the celebration of Saint Luke's Day, the village patron saint, brought the inhabitants together on the Sunday in October following the saint's feast day. A group of friends decided to revive this tradition by adding a festive and spectacular dimension around the theme of witchcraft, deeply rooted in the folklore of Berry.

A Day Between Sacred and Profane

The festival unfolds over a day rich in events. The morning begins with a mass and procession in honor of Saint Luke in the hamlet's chapel. The market of regional products offers specialties from the Berry region, including the famous "bewitching" black pudding. The streets come alive with stilt walker parades, magic shows, brass band and percussion concerts, fairground rides, and activities for children: face painting, creative workshops, broom making, and a "mini-witches" parade.

Bonnu Castle on Stage

The medieval castle of Bonnu, a 13th-century fortress overlooking the meanders of the Creuse river, serves as a natural backdrop for theatrical performances. A play is performed there each year, immersing spectators in the world of witches and Berry legends. The castle's wooded park also hosts storytelling walks, where hamlet residents guide small groups through the undergrowth to discover the secrets of the Bonnu witch.

The Witch's Bonfire and Fireworks

The highlight of the day is the witch's bonfire, a pyrotechnic show that ignites the night, followed by a grand fireworks display launched from the castle. The evening continues with a grand popular ball that brings together the thousands of visitors who come to celebrate this unique tradition. Over the years, Bonnu en Sorcellerie has become an unmissable event for Berry folklore, attracting several thousand visitors each year to this hamlet of only 40 permanent residents.