Fêtes d'Eugénie-les-Bains

The Fêtes d'Eugénie-les-Bains: Landes festival in a thermal setting

A village of character and well-being, Eugénie-les-Bains is world-renowned for its thermal baths, its tradition of slimming and health, and the starred gastronomy of Michel Guérard, emblematic chef of Les Prés d'Eugénie. But this village in the Chalosse region of the Landes, named after Empress Eugénie de Montijo who launched the thermal spa trend there in the 19th century, is also a place of authentic festive traditions.

August 15th: A full day of celebration

The Fêtes d'Eugénie-les-Bains are concentrated on the day of August 15th, offering a dense and varied program that occupies the entire day and extends late into the night. From the morning vintage car gathering to the nighttime fireworks, each moment is designed to bring together the villagers, spa guests, and visitors in an atmosphere of typically Landes joie de vivre.

Vintage Car Gathering

The day begins at 9 AM with a vintage car gathering open to all owners of classic vehicles. This gathering, held in the village streets, attracts enthusiasts of vintage automobiles who come to admire exceptional models in the elegant setting of the thermal village. Collectors willingly share the history of their vehicles with a curious and enthusiastic public.

Landes Racing and Bullfighting Tradition

In the afternoon, the Eugénie-les-Bains arena hosts a formal Landes race at 6 PM. This iconic spectacle of Gascon culture features 'écarteurs' (bull dodgers) and 'sauteurs' (jumpers) who bravely and elegantly confront the racing cows. The race is accompanied by 'bandas' (brass bands) that punctuate the passes and jumps with their lively melodies, creating an atmosphere of shared emotion between the crowd and the performers in the arena.

Festive Meals, Orchestra, and Fireworks

At noon, a grand festive meal brings diners together around Landes specialties: moules-frites (mussels and fries) for adults (€13) and nuggets-frites for children (€10). The meal is enlivened by the Brass'rie orchestra, creating a joyful musical atmosphere. In the evening, at 8:30 PM, an outdoor dinner is served (steak-frites, cheese, and ice cream, €13) before the grand fireworks display at 11 PM, the grand finale of a day of festivities that illuminates the sky above the thermal village.