Fête du Luma

A popular tradition born in 1955

The Fête du Luma originated in the winter of 1953-1954, when two members of the local football team, Maurice Douard and Marcel Gazonneau, had the idea to transform the May 1st fair into a grand popular festival under the emblem of the "luma," the name given to the snail in the Berry dialect. They founded the Coterie du Luma, with Maurice Douard as its president. The first float parade took place on May 1st, 1955, laying the foundation for a tradition that has endured for over 70 years in the commune of Cluis, south of the Indre department.

The float parade: the highlight of the show

The most anticipated moment of the festival is the grand float parade that winds through the streets of Cluis. Teams of volunteers, often entire families, work for months in their garages and workshops to build spectacular floats depicting popular characters: the Smurfs, the Minions, Lucky Luke, the Bodin's, and many others. The luma mascot traditionally opens the procession, followed by the floats, brass bands, and musical groups. In the evening, a night parade illuminates the village streets in a magical atmosphere.

Gastronomy: the snail in all its forms

Gastronomy is at the heart of the Fête du Luma. Each year, between 12,000 and 15,000 dozen snails are sold and enjoyed by visitors. Prepared with parsley butter, in small casseroles, on skewers, or according to other traditional recipes, the "lumas" delight the taste buds of gourmets. Food stalls also offer Berry specialties and local products, accompanied by local wines.

Five days of festivities for everyone

The Fête du Luma unfolds over five days around May 1st. The program includes a funfair with rides and attractions for the whole family, a flea market and second-hand market, popular balls in the evening with orchestras and music groups, as well as various activities: contests, games, and street performances. The atmosphere is festive, warm, and deeply popular.

A village mobilized

With its 300 volunteers from a population of 1,000 inhabitants, the Fête du Luma is a true collective achievement that illustrates the vitality and solidarity of the Cluisian community. Each generation passes on the know-how of float construction and the joy of celebration. Parents bring their children to discover the traditions they themselves experienced, making this event a unique intergenerational moment, deeply rooted in the identity of Berry.