Fête Votive de Manduel

The Fête Votive de Manduel, a deeply rooted tradition in the Gard

The Fête Votive de Manduel is one of the major popular events in the town of Manduel, located in the Gard department of Occitanie. As a traditional Camargue-style votive festival, it is hosted every year by the Manduel Festival Committee, with support from the municipality and local associations, bringing together residents and visitors to celebrate the bullfighting traditions and convivial spirit that define the village's identity.

A centuries-old festival

The Manduel votive festival is a long-standing event, with records dating back to the 19th century in municipal council minutes. It is historically linked to the feast of Saint-Genest d'Arles (August 25th), the patron saint of the Manduel parish, which is why it is traditionally held at the end of August. In recent years, the festival has taken place in late August: from August 24th to 27th in 2023, and from August 20th to 24th in 2025.

The 2026 edition: August 19th to 25th

For 2026, the Fête Votive de Manduel will be held from August 19th to 25th, 2026. Pétanque tournaments, organized at the Boule de Feu de Manduel, will punctuate each day from Wednesday, August 19th, to Tuesday, August 25th. The full program is released annually by the Manduel Festival Committee through its official channels as the event approaches.

Camargue traditions and conviviality

In keeping with the tradition of votive festivals in the Nîmes region, the Fête Votive de Manduel highlights Camargue bullfighting culture—including abrivados, Camargue races, encierros, and bull releases—alongside pétanque competitions, musical aperitifs, bodegas, and festivities that bring all generations together. It is a highlight of village life, blending traditional fervor with a festive atmosphere.