Caillou Costaud Festival

A festival born in the steep streets of Pierrefort

Perched at over 900 meters above sea level in the south of Cantal, the small town of Pierrefort has been the stage for an unusual festival since 2019. The Caillou Costaud Festival, created on the initiative of AAPP (Association pour l'Animation du Pays de Pierrefort), takes advantage of the village's steep topography to organize a legendary soapbox race. Every summer, the streets and alleys of this charming town are transformed into a giant playground, welcoming a multigenerational, cosmopolitan, and joyful audience.

The soapbox race: the flagship event

The highlight of the festival is undoubtedly the soapbox race, which uses Pierrefort's natural slopes to offer a spectacle that is both funny and impressive. On Saturday, after a morning course reconnaissance, the teams set off at 2 p.m. to the cheers of an enthusiastic crowd. The most inventive, fastest, and most spectacular vehicles are rewarded at an awards ceremony in the late afternoon. This participatory and open event perfectly embodies the festival's spirit: creativity, good humor, and resourcefulness.

Concerts and activities for all ages

Beyond the race, the Caillou Costaud Festival offers an eclectic musical program that runs from Saturday evening to Sunday. Concerts take over the upper village, offering varied atmospheres ranging from reggae to Latin groove, from crazy brass bands to wild DJ sets, as well as chanson and folk. Sunday is resolutely family-oriented, with activities such as face painting, temporary tattoos, old and new games, climbing, slacklining, kite making, and circus workshops.

A large market of local artisans and producers allows visitors to discover the region's know-how, while workshops on environmental awareness and demonstrations complete the program. The catering, entirely prepared by volunteers using local products, reflects the festival's local roots.

A community and committed spirit

The Caillou Costaud Festival is driven by a team of determined volunteers who bring the Pierrefort region to life throughout the year. Camping is free, parking is easily accessible, and prices remain deliberately affordable with free admission for children under 14. The festival is committed to an eco-responsible approach, favoring short supply chains, local producers, and environmental awareness.

In just a few editions, Caillou Costaud has become a must-attend summer event in Cantal, proving that a human-sized festival, rooted in its territory and driven by the passion of its organizers, can shine far beyond its mountains.