Journées de la Rose

The Rose Capital Celebrates Its Emblematic Flower

Since 1959, the Journées de la Rose in Doué-en-Anjou (formerly Doué-la-Fontaine) have been one of the most prestigious horticultural events in France. Born from the desire to promote the expertise of the rose growers of this town in Maine-et-Loire, which has become a major center for rose production over the centuries, this event has established itself as an unmissable rendezvous for lovers of gardens and floral art.

An Exceptional Troglodytic Setting

The event takes place in the Arènes de Doué-en-Anjou, a unique troglodytic site classified as heritage. These underground cavities dug into the falun offer a spectacular setting for floral compositions. For four days in July, the arenas are transformed into a true underground garden where over 100,000 cut roses are exhibited in grandiose displays.

An International Floral Art Competition

Since 1990, the Journées de la Rose have hosted an international floral art competition that brings together competitors from about a dozen countries (Belgium, Spain, Japan, Italy, Netherlands, Slovenia, Estonia, Latvia, Ukraine, Croatia, Slovakia, France). Each edition is dedicated to a different theme: in 2024, "The Rose and the Olympic Games"; in 2025, "The Rose and Comics"; in 2026, "The Rose and Childhood". International florists create monumental compositions that compete in creativity and virtuosity.

A Popular and Unifying Event

Beyond the competition, the Journées de la Rose offer a rich program: "best garden rose" competition, floral arrangement workshops, cultivation advice, exhibitions, and entertainment for the whole family. The event, organized by the Comité de la Rose, attracts thousands of visitors each year to discover this exceptional floral heritage in an unparalleled troglodytic setting.