Feria de Paques d'Arles

Opening of the French Season

The Feria de Paques d'Arles traditionally marks the opening of the French bullfighting season. Every year, on Easter weekend, the Arles arena — a 1st-century Roman amphitheater that can accommodate over 12,000 spectators — becomes the stage for top-tier bullfighting events: corridas, novilladas, corridas de rejon, and courses camarguaises take place over three to four days.

Exceptional Lineups

The Feria de Paques d'Arles is renowned for the quality of its lineups, bringing together the greatest matadors on the international circuit. The most famous figures of contemporary bullfighting — Sebastian Castella, Roca Rey, Daniel Luque, Jose Maria Manzanares, Alejandro Talavante — regularly perform in the Arles arena, making this feria one of the most watched in Europe.

A Popular Festival Throughout the City

Beyond the spectacles in the arena, the Feria de Paques transforms the entire city of Arles into a huge popular festival. The bodegas take over the streets of the historic center, offering music, dance, and conviviality until the early morning. The bandas parade through the alleys, the abrivados and encierros liven up the squares, and restaurants offer festive menus with local flavors. The Feria is also an opportunity to discover Camarguais culture, with its centuries-old equestrian and bullfighting traditions.

A Living Cultural Heritage

Rooted in the history of Arles for generations, the Feria de Paques is a living cultural heritage that testifies to the deep attachment of the people of Arles to their Provençal and Camarguais traditions. The Roman arena, a UNESCO World Heritage site, provides an exceptional setting for these festivities, blending ancient heritage and bullfighting culture in a unique spectacle.