Fêtes de Bayonne

The Fêtes de Bayonne: five days of celebration in red and white

Every summer, Bayonne transforms into a huge open-air festival. The Fêtes de Bayonne, created in 1932 by a group of Bayonne residents inspired by the Sanfermines of Pamplona, have become the biggest festive gathering in France, attracting over a million participants over five days. From Wednesday to Sunday, the city vibrates to the rhythm of the bandas, Basque songs, and popular entertainment that invade every street, every square, and every neighborhood.

The opening and the handing over of the keys

The kickoff is given on Wednesday evening with the launch of the keys by King Léon from the balcony of the town hall, on the Place de la Liberté. This emblematic moment marks the official start of the festivities. Thousands of festival-goers dressed in white with red scarves and belts then invade the streets for five days of uninterrupted celebration.

Program and highlights

• Parades of giants and big heads: Traditional characters parade through the city streets, accompanied by bandas and Basque and Gascon folk groups.
• Cow races: In the streets of Petit Bayonne, the cow races are one of the most anticipated and spectacular moments of the festivals.
• Bullfights and bullfighting shows: The Bayonne Arena hosts prestigious bullfights with the best matadors, as well as novilladas for young bullfighters.
• Concerts and bandas: Dozens of bandas entertain the streets day and night, while free concerts are organized in the main squares of the city.
• Children's Day: Thursday is traditionally dedicated to the youngest with special entertainment, games, and adapted shows.
• Traditions Day: Friday honors Basque and Gascon traditions with demonstrations of Basque strength, traditional dances, and songs.

Festive neighborhoods

The festivals unfold in the different neighborhoods of Bayonne, each with its own atmosphere. Grand Bayonne hosts the official events around the cathedral and the market halls. Petit Bayonne, with its narrow streets lined with bars and peñas, is the beating heart of the popular festival. The quays of the Nive offer a magnificent setting for the festivities, between gastronomy and music.

Gastronomy and conviviality

The Fêtes de Bayonne are also a must-attend gastronomic event. The peñas, these festive associations that open their doors during the festivals, offer traditional meals in a friendly atmosphere. You can enjoy Bayonne ham, Espelette peppers, Basque cake, and Bayonne chocolate, accompanied by Irouléguy wines or Basque cider.

An event rooted in history

Since their creation in 1932, the Fêtes de Bayonne have continued to grow to become a major cultural phenomenon in the Southwest of France. They embody the dual identity of Bayonne, at the crossroads of Basque and Gascon cultures, and perpetuate age-old traditions while renewing themselves each year with new entertainment and new artists.