Fête de la Poterie

The Fête de la Poterie: The Art of Clay in Dole

The Fête de la Poterie is a must-attend event for lovers of ceramics and crafts in the Jura region. Organized in Dole, this event highlights the work of potters and ceramists through a dedicated market, demonstrations, and exhibitions in the historic streets of the city of Pasteur.

A Potters' Market in the Heart of the City

The potters' market is the heart of the festival. Dozens of professional ceramists set up their stalls in Dole's city center, offering a wide variety of creations:

• Utilitarian ceramics: tableware, bowls, cups, baking dishes
• Decorative ceramics: vases, sculptures, art objects
• Stoneware, earthenware, porcelain: all techniques are represented
• Raku: spectacular firing to watch live
• Ceramic jewelry and accessories

Demonstrations and Workshops

The festival offers throwing demonstrations that allow the public to observe the potter's work on the wheel, from a lump of clay to the finished object. Discovery workshops are offered to children and adults to learn about modeling and decorating clay pieces.

The Link with EMA-CNIFOP

The Fête de la Poterie in Dole is part of the influence of the International Center for Training in Crafts and Ceramics EMA-CNIFOP, located in Saint-Amand-en-Puisaye, but whose influence extends throughout Burgundy-Franche-Comté. In 2026, the event coincides with the 5th French Potters Championship and the 50th anniversary of the training center, strengthening the national dimension of this celebration.

Dole: A Heritage Setting for Crafts

The city of Dole, with its medieval streets, Renaissance private mansions, and the classified Tanneries district, offers an exceptional setting for this artisanal festival. The ceramic creations exhibited in the cobbled streets of the old town create a dialogue between architectural heritage and contemporary creation, making this event both a cultural and aesthetic experience.

Meet the Artisans

One of the major assets of the Fête de la Poterie is the opportunity to meet the artisans directly, to discuss with them their background, their techniques, and their inspiration. This human and friendly dimension distinguishes this event from traditional commercial circuits and allows visitors to understand the value of artisanal work.