Carnaval d'Auxonne

A Centenary Carnival in Côte-d'Or

The Carnaval d'Auxonne draws its roots from a tradition dating back to the Middle Ages, when the "Fête des Fous" (Feast of Fools) allowed people to forget the cold and famines of winter by celebrating the arrival of spring. In 1922, the Club Cycliste Excursionniste Auxonnais (CCEA) was founded by several downtown merchants, including Émile Lebeau. Two years later, in 1924, the first costume ball was organized, marking the beginning of the modern Auxonne carnival. In 1927, the first children's ball was held.

A Spectacular Parade

Every first Sunday of March, about thirty flower-decorated floats parade through the streets of Auxonne, accompanied by approximately one thousand costumed participants. The floats are decorated with crepe paper flowers, handmade by CCEA volunteers and partner associations in the months leading up to the carnival. The parade takes place in a festive atmosphere with music, confetti, and entertainment for all ages.

A Popular and Unifying Event

The Carnaval d'Auxonne is a deeply popular and unifying event, involving the entire Auxonne community. The year 1965 broke attendance records with over 10,000 spectators. In 2022, the carnival celebrated its 100th edition, confirming the vitality of this centenary tradition. The CCEA, which became Club Carnavalesque et Excursionniste Auxonnais, perpetuates this tradition with passion and volunteerism.

The Queen's Ball and Festivities

The carnival is not limited to the Sunday parade. Festivities traditionally include a Queen's Ball on Saturday evening, costume contests, and various entertainment in the streets of Auxonne. The event attracts visitors from all over Burgundy and the neighboring Jura region, making Auxonne the carnival capital of Côte-d'Or.