Fêtes de Montfort-en-Chalosse

The Fêtes de Montfort-en-Chalosse: the soul of Chalosse in celebration

Montfort-en-Chalosse, a village of 1,200 inhabitants perched on the green hills of Chalosse, south of the Landes department, celebrates its local festivals every last weekend of July. These four days of festivities are the most authentic expression of the Chalosse identity, combining rural traditions, bullfighting shows and Gascon conviviality in a picturesque setting.

The agricultural fair: showcase of the Chalosse terroir

The agricultural fair is one of the highlights of the Montfort festivals. This gathering of the rural world showcases the know-how of Chalosse breeders through livestock competitions, agricultural demonstrations and equipment exhibitions. The Chalosse beef, foie gras and local products are in the spotlight, testifying to the gastronomic richness of this exceptional territory. Local producers present their best animals and products in a traditional fair atmosphere.

Landes races and bullfighting traditions

The Montfort-en-Chalosse arena hosts first-category Landes races, an emblematic spectacle of Gascon culture. On Saturday evening, a non-competitive race features écart-eurs and jumpers facing cows from local ganaderías. On Sunday at noon, the encierro releases cows into the village streets to the cheers of the festayres. On Monday evening, the more playful and participatory intervaches allow amateurs to face young cows in the arena.

Los Copleros and the bandas of the Southwest

Montfort-en-Chalosse is the birthplace of the Banda Los Copleros, an emblematic musical group created in 1977 that has enlivened Landes festivals for over forty years. During the festivals, the bandas parade through the steep streets of the village, leading the crowd in a festive and warm musical atmosphere. Brass instruments, percussion and Gascon songs resonate between the half-timbered houses and the shaded squares.

Cycling race and sports activities

The Sunday cycling race attracts cycling enthusiasts on a hilly course through the Chalosse landscapes. Pétanque competitions, tennis tournaments and fishing trips complete the sports offerings. The flea market allows for bargain hunting among the stalls, while children enjoy dedicated games and activities.

Country meals and Chalosse conviviality

Country meals are at the heart of Montfort's conviviality. Under the marquees set up in the village, families and friends gather around generous Gascon menus: garbure, gizzard salad, duck confit, grilled duck breast, sheep cheese and pastis landais. Armagnac and Floc de Gascogne accompany the desserts. Catering is provided on-site throughout the festivities.