Fête de la Saint-Vincent

The age-old tradition of Saint-Vincent in Champagne

Each year, around January 22nd, Champagne winegrowers pay homage to Saint Vincent, a Christian martyr and protector of vine cultivators. This ancestral tradition, carried by the Archiconfrérie Saint-Vincent, brings together hundreds of brothers from all over the Champagne AOC appellation for a moment of communion, celebration, and winemaking pride. The celebration is one of the most emblematic events in the Champagne wine calendar.

A grand parade through the streets of Épernay

The parade of the Archiconfrérie Saint-Vincent is the highlight of the day. Representatives of Champagne houses and wine villages parade in full regalia through the city streets, displaying the banners and insignia of their brotherhood. The colorful and solemn procession generally starts from the Avenue de Champagne and crosses the historic center, offering a unique spectacle to the thousands of spectators gathered along the route.

Solemn mass and ceremonies

After the parade, a solemn mass is celebrated in the Notre-Dame church of Épernay, bringing the brothers together in a moment of reflection and tradition. The Saint-Vincent ceremonies, including the induction of new members and speeches by dignitaries of the Archiconfrérie, continue in the late afternoon in a reception venue suited to the scale of the event.

The winegrowers' banquet

The day concludes with a grand banquet bringing together the brothers and their guests for a festive meal accompanied by the best Champagnes from the region. This moment of conviviality celebrates the unity and solidarity of the Champagne winegrowing community, perpetuating a tradition of sharing and fraternity that is the richness of Champagne wine.