Fêtes Latino-Mexicaines de Barcelonnette

A festival born from a unique emigration story

In the 19th century, nearly 2,500 inhabitants of the Ubaye Valley, almost half the population, left their mountains to try their luck in Mexico. The Arnaud brothers, pioneers of this adventure, initiated a massive emigration movement towards Mexican lands, where the Ubayens distinguished themselves in the textile trade, industry, and business. Upon their return, these "Mexicans"—as they were nicknamed—brought back considerable fortunes and a unique cultural heritage, building sumptuous villas with colorful facades and Latin American-inspired decorations that still line the streets of Barcelonnette today.

Ten days of Latin-Mexican festivities

Every August, the Fêtes Latino-Mexicaines de Barcelonnette revive this singular history by transforming the Alpine town into a true Mexican village. For about ten days, Place Manuel, Place Valle de Bravo, the Parc de la Sapinière, and the downtown streets host a rich and colorful program that attracts thousands of visitors.

Mexican folk ballets, such as the Fiesta de México ensemble, enchant the public with their flamboyant choreography in traditional costumes. Mariachis parade through the streets and give evening concerts on Place Manuel. Danza Prehispánica groups offer spectacular performances celebrating the elements—fire, water, wind, and earth—in the purest Aztec tradition.

Music, dance, and gastronomy

The festival offers a varied musical program ranging from traditional mariachis to Cuban evenings, including salsa, bachata, and merengue. Latin dance classes are offered throughout the week, accessible to beginners and experienced dancers alike. The open-air concert evenings on Place Manuel are highlights of the festival, featuring artists and bands from Latin America.

Mexican gastronomy is in the spotlight with cooking workshops offering the discovery of traditional dishes like tacos de pescado or chile en nogada. Tasting stands allow you to savor the authentic flavors of Mexico throughout the festivities.

The sombrero day and family activities

The highlight of the festival is the now-famous "¡Viva el sombrero!" day in Parc de la Sapinière, where young and old don Mexican hats for a grand festive parade. Creative workshops for children are offered throughout the festival: piñata making, Mexican Huichol art, traditional games, and introductions to pre-Columbian dances and rituals.

A festival that shines throughout the valley

The festivities are not limited to Barcelonnette: they spread to several towns in the Ubaye Valley, including Jausiers, Le Sauze, Le Lauzet-Ubaye, and Faucon-de-Barcelonnette. Guided tours of the Mexican villas allow visitors to discover the unique architectural heritage left by the "Barcelonnettes of Mexico." This free and popular festival has become one of the major cultural events in the Alpes de Haute-Provence, attracting an ever-larger audience each year.