Hesteyade de Bigorre

Hesteyade de Bigorre: The Great Festival of Gascon Culture

Since 1978, the Hesteyade de Bigorre has been the major event for Gascon culture in the Hautes-Pyrénées. Initiated by Denis Pécassou, a fervent defender of Bigourdan songs, and driven by the group Les Plantagulhes, this festival celebrates the language, songs, stories, and traditional dances of Bigorre for three days.

Three Days of Living Tradition

Each edition offers a rich program:

• Friday evening: Gascon Ball with traditional orchestras
• Saturday afternoon: Vrespada deths Mainats (Children's afternoon) with traditional songs and games
• Saturday evening: Sopar de Baralha (Closing meal)
• Sunday morning: Missa en Gascon (Mass in Gascon) followed by the Aubada (friendly gathering under the market hall)
• Sunday afternoon: Vrespada de Hestejada with songs and stories from Bigorre

A Living Heritage

The Hesteyade brings together hundreds of choristers, storytellers, and artists from the 160 communes of the region, all gathered under a marquee to sing, tell stories, and keep the language of Bigorre alive. Supported by the Departmental Council of Hautes-Pyrénées, it constitutes a true act of transmission of Gascon intangible heritage.