Fête des Vendanges de Barr

The largest grape harvest festival in France

The Fête des Vendanges de Barr is considered one of the largest and most beautiful grape harvest festivals in France. Created in 1952 in this wine town nestled at the foot of Mont Sainte-Odile, it has continuously grown over the decades. As early as its second edition in 1953, the festival had already earned its first accolades, and by 1954, the participation of associations, merchants, and restaurateurs was already considerable.

Election of the Grape Harvest Queen

Friday evening marks the start of the festivities with the election of the Grape Harvest Queen and her court. This tradition, deeply rooted in Alsatian wine culture, designates a young ambassador for the vineyard who will represent Barr and its wines throughout the year. The election evening, marked by elegance and conviviality, sets the tone for a weekend dedicated to celebration and wine.

The Flower Parade: A Spectacular Dahlia Float Parade

Sunday is the highlight of the festival with the flower parade, a spectacular procession of floats decorated with thousands of dahlias. Meticulously crafted by local associations for weeks, these floats parade through the streets of Barr in an explosion of colors—red, orange, yellow, purple—illuminating the Alsatian autumn. The procession is accompanied by brass bands, folk groups in traditional costumes, and dancers, creating a unique festive atmosphere.

Flea Market, Gala Concert, and Tastings

Saturday is dedicated to the flea market, one of the largest in the region, attracting thousands of bargain hunters to the town's streets. In the evening, a gala concert brings together music lovers. Throughout the weekend, Barr's winegrowers open their cellars and offer tastings of their finest vintages, particularly from the Grand Cru Kirchberg de Barr, a calcareous-marl terroir that produces exceptional Gewurztraminers and Pinot Gris.

Barr: Wine Capital of the Vosges Foothills

Located in the heart of the Alsace Wine Route, Barr is a dynamic town that combines historical heritage and wine tradition. Its beautiful Renaissance houses, its 18th-century town hall, and its cobbled streets form an ideal setting for this autumn festival. The Fête des Vendanges is organized by the Ville de Barr and the Comité des Fêtes, with the support of all the town's associations, merchants, and winegrowers.