Fête Foraine de Pont-sur-Yonne

The Fête Foraine de Pont-sur-Yonne

Each year in mid-August, Pont-sur-Yonne (89140) transforms into a giant funfair for the enjoyment of all generations. The town hosts a vast setup of rides, attractions, and fairground stalls that liven up the quays and the town center for about ten days around August 15th.

A Range of Attractions for Everyone

The Fête Foraine offers a complete range of attractions for young and old alike:

• Thrill rides: haunted house, funhouse mirrors, simulators, roller coasters
• Children's rides: caterpillar rides, trampolines, mini-carousels
• Games of skill and chance: duck fishing, shooting gallery, darts
• Food stalls: cotton candy, candy apples, churros, waffles
• Fairground entertainment and shows throughout the period

August 15th: Nautical Jousting on the Yonne

The highlight of the funfair is undoubtedly the August 15th, dedicated to nautical jousting on the Yonne river. This popular and sporting tradition is one of the most cherished in the region:

• Morning: distribution of buttered bread to participants, a convivial tradition
• At 1:30 PM: boat jousting competition for young people with jousting competition
• At 2:00 PM: grand parade of jousters on the river, a colorful spectacle
• Yonne-Nièvre Final of Provençal nautical jousting, a regional sporting competition
• At 9:00 PM: evening concert to conclude the August 15th festivities

A Tradition Rooted in the Identity of Pont-sur-Yonne

The funfair and nautical jousting are deeply rooted in the identity of Pont-sur-Yonne. The Yonne river, which flows through the town and gives it its name, is the natural stage for these jousts that date back several decades. Each year, the jousting teams from Yonne and Nièvre compete in a festive atmosphere before a large crowd gathered on the banks and quays.

The funfair attracts families from all over the region each year, making Pont-sur-Yonne a must-visit destination in August in the Sénonais.