Fête de Cénevières

A Votive Festival in the Heart of the Lot Valley

The Fête de Cénevières is a traditional votive festival that takes place every year in early July in the picturesque village of Cénevières, perched above the Lot valley in the Lot department. Organized by the Comité des Fêtes de Cénevières, this festive and popular event brings together locals and visitors for three days of music, local gastronomy, and conviviality.

Cénevières is a village steeped in history, famous for its Renaissance castle, a listed Historic Monument, nestled on the cliffs overlooking the Lot. It is in this exceptional setting, in the heart of the Parc Naturel Régional des Causses du Quercy, that the votive festival comes to life each summer, perpetuating a festive tradition deeply rooted in local life.

Three Days of Festivities: Music, Gastronomy, and Activities

The Fête de Cénevières is structured around three action-packed days, combining culinary discoveries, musical entertainment, and moments of sharing:

• Friday evening kicks off the festivities with a gourmet market featuring local producers, accompanied by musicians and followed by a DJ set. Quercy specialties are in the spotlight: IGP Quercy melon, AOP Rocamadour, farm lamb, and Cahors wines.
• Saturday is dedicated to an afternoon pétanque tournament, followed in the evening by contemporary music concerts with several bands on stage and DJ sets until the early hours.
• Sunday features another pétanque tournament and a friendly country meal prepared in partnership with a local chef, all accompanied by a musical group.

Open-Air Contemporary Music Concerts

The musical program of the Fête de Cénevières blends regional and national artists in various genres: reggae, rock, French chanson, world music, and DJ sets. Over the years, the festival has hosted renowned artists such as Sinsemilia, HK, I Woks, La Carriole, Les Hurlements d'Léo, and No Réso. The village of Cénevières transforms into an open-air stage, offering a warm and festive musical experience in a remarkable natural setting.

A Popular Event Driven by Volunteers

The Fête de Cénevières is entirely driven by the Comité des Fêtes de Cénevières, a dynamic cultural association that enlivens local life throughout the year. Saint-Jean festivals, popular dances, flea markets, themed meals, theater evenings: the committee multiplies initiatives to keep this charming Lot commune alive and vibrant. The July votive festival is the highlight of the year, bringing together the inhabitants of the village and surrounding areas in a spirit of sharing, conviviality, and pride in the heritage and traditions of Quercy.

Admission to concerts and activities is free, and free camping without reservation is offered to festival-goers wishing to extend their stay. Food and drinks are available on-site throughout the weekend.