Fêtes d'Ondres
Local festivals of Ondres with old-fashioned Landes bull races, bandas and festive entertainment between Landes and Basque Country
About Fêtes d'Ondres
Every end of June, the town of Ondres, at the gates of the Basque Country, celebrates its local festivals with four days of festivities rooted in Landes tradition. The old-fashioned Landes bull races, organized all summer long by the Foyer d'Éducation Populaire, are the highlight of these festivities. The program also includes bandas, the Chaouches race, a colored powder release, a fishing competition, country meals and popular dances at the fronton.
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The Fêtes d'Ondres: Landes traditions at the gates of the Basque Country
A town on the southern coast of the Landes region, just a few kilometers from Bayonne, Ondres is a village that combines Landes identity and Basque influence in its festive traditions. Its local festivals, organized every end of June, mark the beginning of summer with four days of authentic festivities that bring the entire Ondres community together.
Old-fashioned Landes Bull Races
The main attraction of the Fêtes d'Ondres, the old-fashioned Landes bull races, are organized by the Foyer d'Éducation Populaire d'Ondres throughout the summer. This family-friendly spectacle, full of thrills and emotion, features elegantly dressed men who try to avoid the charges of the racing bulls by performing spectacular dodges and jumps. The arena gates open at 8:30 PM for a show at 9:15 PM lasting about two hours. A bar and light refreshments are available on site. Tickets are on sale at the Tourist Office and at the event venue.
The Chaouches Race and Sports Activities
The Fêtes d'Ondres are distinguished by original sports activities, starting with the famous Chaouches race, a 10 km course that brings together runners and walkers in a festive atmosphere. A colored powder release transforms participants into living rainbows, adding a modern touch to Landes traditions. The fishing competition attracts nature and patience lovers, while pétanque tournaments bring together the village's boules players.
Bandas, Music, and Parades
The bandas are at the heart of Ondres' festive atmosphere. They parade through the village streets, leading the revelers into an atmosphere of popular jubilation. The official opening of the festivals traditionally takes place at 8 PM at the fronton, where the first notes of the bandas signal the start of the festivities. The evenings are filled with concerts and popular dances that get the people of Ondres and their visitors dancing until the early hours of the morning.
The Dune Festival and Fireworks
In addition to the local festivals in June, Ondres organizes the Fête de la Dune at the end of August, an event that celebrates the natural heritage of the town with a grand fireworks display launched from the beach. The Landes bull races continue throughout the summer with shows scheduled for July 14th, July 28th, August 4th, and August 18th, offering vacationers multiple opportunities to discover this unique Landes tradition.
Practical information — Fêtes d'Ondres
Practical Information
Dates and Times
The local festivals of Ondres are held at the end of June, from Friday to Monday. The official opening is at 8 PM at the fronton with the bandas. The summer Landes bull races take place throughout the summer at the Ondres arena: July 14th, July 28th, August 4th, and August 18th, with gates opening at 8:30 PM and the show starting at 9:15 PM (duration approximately 2 hours). The Fête de la Dune with fireworks takes place at the end of August.
Prices
- Access to local festivals: free
- Landes bull races: paid entry, tickets at the Tourist Office or on site on the evening of the event
- Chaouches race (10 km): paid registration
- Fête de la Dune: free access
Access
By car: Ondres is located 7 km north of Bayonne, on the D810. From the A63 motorway, take the Ondres exit (exit 7). Free parking in the village and near the arena. Additional parking is available during the festivals to accommodate the crowds.
By bus: Chronoplus line from Bayonne, Ondres centre stop.
By train: Bayonne station (7 km), then Chronoplus bus or taxi.
Food and Drink
Bar and light refreshments at the arena during the Landes bull races. Food stalls, refreshment stands, and casetas during the local festivals. Grills, tapas, and Landes specialties are offered throughout the festivities.
Accommodation
Ondres has campsites, holiday residences, and seasonal rentals between the town center and Ondres-Plage. The proximity to Bayonne and the Basque coast offers many additional accommodation options. Booking is recommended during high season.
Practical Tips
- Bull races: family-friendly and convivial spectacle, suitable for all ages. Bring a stadium seat for the 2-hour show.
- Chaouches race: online or on-site registration, festive course open to all levels.
- Attire: festive atmosphere, white is the traditional color of Landes festivals.
- Safety: a security system is in place by the municipality throughout the duration of the festivals.
Contact
Ondres Town Hall: +33 5 59 45 31 08
Tourist Office: ondres.fr
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Travel to this festival
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Where does it take place — Fêtes d'Ondres
Fronton et arènes d'Ondres
Fronton et arènes d'Ondres, 40440 Ondres