Fête des Pommiers

Fête des Pommiers: Breton tradition celebrated in Fouesnant

For over a century, the Fête des Pommiers has marked the summer in Fouesnant, a charming town in South Finistère renowned for its orchards and cider. This essential event of Breton culture takes place every year on the third weekend of July and brings together several thousand visitors for a program rich in traditional, musical, and festive activities.

A Century-Old Heritage

Created in 1912, the Fête des Pommiers draws its roots from Fouesnant's cider-making tradition. The town, benefiting from a favorable microclimate, has long been a major center for cider production in Brittany. The festival pays homage to this heritage by organizing a cider and apple juice competition, the results of which are announced during the opening ceremony. The winners receive the prestigious Pin's Fleur de Pommier (Apple Blossom Pin), a symbol of Fouesnant's cider excellence.

Parades, Dances, and Fest-Noz

The highlight of the festival is the Grand Parade on Sunday, which winds through the streets of Fouesnant with bagadoù (Breton pipe bands), Celtic circles in traditional costumes, and decorated floats. The afternoon is dedicated to dances and performances in the town hall square, featuring the triumph of the pipers and the famous Danse des Mille (Dance of the Thousands). On Saturday evening, a fest-noz (Breton folk dance party) animated by Breton music groups keeps festival-goers dancing until the early hours. The fireworks display on Sunday evening concludes this festive weekend in a burst of light.

A Popular and Family-Friendly Festival

The Fête des Pommiers is above all a popular and family-friendly festival, open to all. The Saturday evening meal, crêpes and galettes, local cider, and Breton regional products are an integral part of the experience. The event is organized by the Comité des Fêtes de Fouesnant, driven by a team of passionate volunteers who have been preserving this tradition for over a century.