Fêtes de Gamarde-les-Bains
Patronal festival and Landes traditions in the heart of Chalosse
About Fêtes de Gamarde
The Fêtes de Gamarde-les-Bains are an unmissable event in the festive life of Chalosse, celebrated each year in early July in this charming thermal village in the Landes. Organized around the covered arena inaugurated in 1998, these patronal festivals perpetuate Landes traditions with spectacular Landes races, convivial meals, concerts, entertainment for the whole family, and festive evenings animated by bandas. These festivities illustrate the Gascon art of living and the attachment of the Sibusates to their cultural and bullfighting heritage.
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The Fêtes de Gamarde-les-Bains: Tradition and conviviality in Chalosse
Each year, at the beginning of July, the village of Gamarde-les-Bains comes alive to the rhythm of its patronal festivals, an event that brings together residents and visitors in a warm and authentic atmosphere. Nestled in the heart of Chalosse, this thermal commune in the Landes perpetuates a festive tradition deeply rooted in Gascon culture.
The covered arena, heart of the festivities
The Gamarde-les-Bains arena, circular in shape with amphitheater seating for 1,200 spectators, is the beating heart of the festivals. Inaugurated in 1998 and covered since 2009, it hosts the highlights of the program:
- Landes races: true jewels of Gascon bullfighting heritage, the Landes races counting for the Challenge Landes-Béarn bring together the best bullfighters and jumpers against cows from local ganaderias.
- Shows and entertainment: concerts, musical evenings with bandas, entertainment for children, and traditional games.
- Sporting events: basketball games and other competitions hosted thanks to the versatility of the covered venue.
A rich and varied program
The festivals take place over several days and offer a dense program combining tradition and modernity. Mornings begin with gourmet markets showcasing local Chalosse products, while afternoons are dedicated to Landes races and family entertainment. Evenings are marked by festive meals, concerts, and popular balls animated by orchestras and bandas.
The Spring Festival and the Coursayre Harvest
Beyond the July patronal festivals, Gamarde-les-Bains also organizes the Spring Festival in March, with an inaugural Landes race of the season, as well as the Vendanges Coursayres in October, a presentation race concluding the bullfighting season. These three events mark the village's festive year and demonstrate the vitality of its traditions.
A thermal and cultural heritage
Gamarde-les-Bains is also renowned for its thermal waters with recognized virtues. The patronal festivals offer an opportunity to discover this heritage in a bucolic setting, between green hills and the Adour valley, offering visitors a complete immersion in the Landes way of life.
Practical information — Fêtes de Gamarde
Practical Information — Fêtes de Gamarde-les-Bains
Access
By car: Gamarde-les-Bains is located 15 km southeast of Dax, accessible via the D6 from Dax or the D32 from Montfort-en-Chalosse. Free parking available near the arena and in adjacent village streets. Follow the signage put in place by the municipality during the festivals.
By train: Dax SNCF station (15 km), then connection by departmental road. Possibility of carpooling from Dax via online platforms.
Main venue
Covered arena of Gamarde-les-Bains, in the center of the village. The arena, circular with amphitheater seating, has 1,200 seats. Covered since 2009, it allows shows to be held in all weather. The venue is versatile and also hosts sporting and cultural events.
Typical program
- Friday evening: official opening of the festivals, meal under a marquee and opening concert.
- Saturday: daytime entertainment for families, Landes race in the evening, popular ball animated by an orchestra.
- Sunday: mass, giant aperitif, afternoon Landes race counting for the Challenge Landes-Béarn with the best ganaderias.
- Monday: evening Landes race, festive closing of the festivals with award ceremony.
Prices
Entrance to the arena for Landes races: approximately 8 to 12 EUR depending on the race and seating category. Reduced price for children under 12 years old. Street entertainment and concerts are free.
Catering
Traditional Landes meals served under a marquee on Friday and Sunday evenings (reservation strongly recommended with the Festival Committee). Menu composed of Chalosse specialties: garbure, magret, confit de canard, pastis landais. Refreshment stands and fast-food stalls available on the festival site throughout the event.
Accommodation
Gîtes, bed and breakfasts, and campsites available in the surroundings of Gamarde-les-Bains and in Chalosse. Reservations recommended during the festival period.
Contact
Mairie de Gamarde-les-Bains
Tel: 05 58 98 60 86
Email: [email protected]
Website: gamarde-les-bains.com
Chalosse Tourist Office: www.chalosse.fr
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Travel to this festival
Book your train or bus to reach Fêtes de Gamarde at the best price.
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Where does it take place — Fêtes de Gamarde
Arènes couvertes de Gamarde-les-Bains
Arènes de Gamarde-les-Bains, 40380 Gamarde-les-Bains