Cassis Fête son Vin

The oldest wine festival in France

Cassis Fête son Vin is a traditional festival that celebrates the wine heritage of Cassis every May. Cassis is a small fishing port in the Bouches-du-Rhône region, nestled between the Calanques and Cap Canaille. The AOC Cassis, created in 1936, is one of the very first controlled appellations in France, and this festival perpetuates the pride of Cassis winemakers for their unique terroir. Organized by the Syndicat des Vignerons de Cassis and Cassis Animation, it brings together residents, winemakers, and visitors in a spirit of sharing and conviviality.

The stump dance and the blessing of the wine

The day begins with a mass at the Saint-Michel Church, followed by the most emblematic ritual of the festival: the stump dance (danse de la soco in Provençal). On the church parvis, a vine stump is blessed and burned, symbolizing the renewal of the wine cycle. The blessing of the wine by fire takes place in the presence of the mayor, the winemakers, and elected officials, followed by a procession accompanied by traditional musicians and Provençal folk groups in costume, which descends towards Place Baragnon and Esplanade Aristide Briand.

Tastings and master classes

The 12 wine estates of the Cassis appellation offer tastings of their wines — white, rosé, and red — on Place Baragnon. By purchasing a glass (around 10 euros), visitors can taste all the wines from the estates and discover the richness and diversity of the appellation. Oenology master classes are organized in the afternoon, covering topics such as wine aromas, the art of tasting, and the discovery of old vintages. Activities for children (fruit juice tasting) allow the whole family to participate in the celebration.

A strong Provençal identity

Cassis Fête son Vin is deeply rooted in Provençal tradition. Folkloric groups in traditional attire entertain the village streets, Provençal dances punctuate the day, and local gastronomy is celebrated with stands offering regional specialties. The festival is a moment of collective pride for the people of Cassis, who celebrate the fruit of their vineyard with simplicity and authenticity.