Fête du Cheval

The Breton Draft Horse in the Spotlight

The Fête du Cheval de Loudéac has been celebrating the Breton draft horse since 1936, this robust breed with a chestnut or auburn coat, inseparable from the landscapes of central Brittany. The first edition, organized at the Loudéac racecourse, brought together over 900 horses, demonstrating the importance of horse breeding in the region. Interrupted by the war in 1939, the festival resumed in 1946 and has continued to perpetuate the tradition ever since.

A Rich and Varied Program

The day unfolds according to an unchanging program that delights enthusiasts and the curious alike:

• Morning Parade: departure from the racecourse towards the town center with ridden and harnessed horses, accompanied by brass bands.
• Convivial Lunch: country meal at the racecourse.
• Equestrian Shows: demonstrations of dressage, carriage driving, and traditional agricultural work.
• Competitions: election of the best female rider, presentation of foals and stallions.
• Local Producers' Market and exhibitor stands.

A Living Heritage

Organized by volunteers from the Société Hippique Rurale de Loudéac and passionate breeders, the Fête du Cheval remains a major popular event that greatly contributes to boosting Breton draft horse breeding in the region. With nearly 220 horses and about thirty horse-drawn carriages, it attracts over 8,000 visitors to the Loudéac racecourse each year.