Les Absinthiades

Les Absinthiades: The Green Fairy Honored in Pontarlier

Since 2001, Les Absinthiades has celebrated the unique heritage of absinthe in Pontarlier, the historic capital of this legendary drink, every autumn. Organized by the Association des Amis du Musée de Pontarlier (ADMP), these festive days are a must-attend event for enthusiasts, collectors, and the curious eager to discover the world of the green fairy.

The Best Absinthe Competition

A highlight of Les Absinthiades, the competition for the best absinthe of the year brings together local and international distilleries—French, Swiss, German, Italian—whose absinthes are judged by three juries: a professional jury composed of distillers, a VIP jury of elected officials and personalities, and a popular jury open to the public. The results are announced at a festive ceremony crowning the best vintages.

A Collector's and Artisans' Fair

The collector's fair for absinthe and aniseed drinks is one of the most anticipated events. Antique dealers, collectors, and enthusiasts display absinthe fountains, spoons, vintage advertising posters, and rare objects related to the history of the green fairy. Artisans also offer their creations: glass engraving, cutlery, tattoos, and merchandise related to absinthe.

Gastronomy and Know-How

Les Absinthiades highlight the gastronomic know-how associated with absinthe: chocolates, ice creams, macarons, pastries, and dishes flavored with absinthe are offered by partner artisans and restaurants. Distillery tours in the region allow visitors to discover the secrets of making Pontarlier absinthe, protected by a Geographical Indication (GI). The Pontarlier municipal museum, with free admission all weekend, traces the economic, sociological, and cultural epic of absinthe.

A Heritage and Festive Event

Beyond gastronomy, Les Absinthiades is a celebration of Pontarlier's historical and cultural heritage. The town, which had over 25 distilleries at the beginning of the 20th century, was the world capital of absinthe before its ban in 1915. The revival of this drink since 2001 is celebrated every year with pride and conviviality, attracting over 5,000 visitors from France and abroad.