Fêtes de Soustons
Four days of Landaise celebration between the lake and the pine forest
About Fêtes de Soustons
The Fêtes de Soustons are an unmissable summer event on the Landes coast. For four days and four nights in early August, this town located between the lake and the ocean celebrates its traditions with a rich and varied program. Official opening from the balcony of La Marensine, nocturnal Landaise race in the Henri Canelas arena, novillada, Grand Prix des Trottinettes, cabestria in the town center, musical entertainment, and a funfair make up a program that mixes bullfighting traditions, sport, and conviviality.
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The Fêtes de Soustons: Between Lake and Traditions
The Fêtes de Soustons are among the most popular local festivals on the Landes coast. Every year, in early August, this town of over 8,000 inhabitants, located between the Lac de Soustons and the Atlantic Ocean, vibrates for four days and four nights to the rhythm of Landaise and festive traditions.
Opening from La Marensine
The official opening of the festival is an emblematic moment: the mayor hands over the keys of the town to the youth from the balcony of the La Marensine theater, in the heart of the town center. This symbolic gesture officially launches the festivities and signals the opening of the bodegas and entertainment.
The Henri Canelas Arena
The Arènes Henri Canelas are the stage for bullfighting events, the heart of the Soustons festivities:
- The great nocturnal Landaise race, preceded by a parade of the cuadrillas through the streets of the town center, is one of the most anticipated moments.
- The novillada of the festival, a major bullfighting event in the program.
- Special shows like the International Raseteurs Competition pitting France against Spain.
Entertainment and Traditions
The Fêtes de Soustons program is rich in varied entertainment:
- The Grand Prix des Trottinettes (Scooter Grand Prix), a popular and fun race through the town streets.
- The cabestria in the town center, a highlight mixing bulls and crowds in the streets.
- The 10 km race with its spectacular finish in the arena.
- Musical parades and processions through the streets.
- Balls and dance evenings in the bodegas and estanquets.
- The funfair set up near the arena.
An Exceptional Natural Setting
Soustons benefits from a privileged natural environment between the Lac de Soustons, the maritime pine forests, and its proximity to the ocean. The festival takes advantage of this setting to offer a relaxed and family-friendly summer atmosphere, characteristic of the Landes coast festivities.
Conviviality and Associative Spirit
The tiaps (associative stands) set up near the arena offer convivial meals and musical entertainment. Local associations play a central role in the organization and animation of the festival, ensuring its authenticity and conviviality.
Practical information — Fêtes de Soustons
Access to Soustons
By Car
Soustons is located on the D652, 25 km north of Bayonne and 25 km south of Dax. Access via the A63 motorway (Soustons exit). Free parking is available near the town center and the arena. During the festival, some town center streets are closed to traffic, and a specific parking plan is implemented.
By Bike
Soustons is served by the Landes cycle path network, including the Vélodyssée and the paths connecting the Lac de Soustons to the beaches. Bicycle racks are available in the town center.
By Bus
The XL'R network serves Soustons from Dax and Bayonne. Summer shuttles supplement the service between Soustons-Bourg and the beaches.
Festival Locations
The festivities take place in the town center of Soustons and at the Arènes Henri Canelas. The official opening takes place from the balcony of the La Marensine theater, in the heart of the town center. The tiaps (associative stands) are set up near the arena. The funfair with rides and attractions is located near the festival site.
Schedule
The official opening takes place on Thursday late afternoon from La Marensine. The Grand Prix des Trottinettes takes place on Thursday. The cabestria is held on Friday in the town center, followed by the nocturnal Landaise race at 9:30 PM. The novillada is scheduled for Saturday at 6:00 PM. Musical entertainment and balls continue every night until late.
Prices
Access to street entertainment, concerts, bandas, parades, and the funfair is free. Bullfighting events in the Arènes Henri Canelas are paid. Tickets are on sale at the Landes Atlantique Sud tourist office and on-site at the arena ticket offices.
Catering
The associative tiaps near the arena offer convivial meals featuring local products: foie gras, magret, piperade, chipirons, and Landes specialties. Fast food stands complete the offer. The many restaurants in the center of Soustons are also within walking distance.
Safety and Recommendations
- A first aid station is set up within the festival perimeter.
- Water fountains are available to cool down.
- Remember to protect yourself from the sun and stay hydrated regularly.
- Pets are not allowed in the bullfighting areas.
Contact
Mairie de Soustons
Place du Commandant Dufau, 40140 Soustons
Official website: www.mairie-soustons.fr
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Travel to this festival
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Where does it take place — Fêtes de Soustons
Arènes Henri Canelas et centre-ville
Place du Commandant Dufau, 40140 Soustons