Rendez-vous là-Haut

An artisanal festival in the heart of Mézenc

Since 2017, the village of Fay-sur-Lignon, nestled at over 1,000 meters above sea level on the Mézenc plateau in Haute-Loire, has hosted the Rendez-vous là-Haut festival every summer. Driven by the 45e Parallèle association — whose name refers to the 45th parallel north which crosses the commune — this festive and committed event highlights local craftsmanship, short supply chains, and respect for the environment. Collectively founded by Eléonore Leblanc, Hilary Rich, Elodie Rochette, Justine Tardy and Lise Trouillet, the association imagines initiatives that carry human and ecological values, promoting social connection and the valorization of the territory.

A market of artisans and creators

The heart of the festival beats around the artisanal market set up at the Ferme de Mathias, in the lower part of the village, on the banks of the Lignon river. Artisans and creators from all over the region exhibit their handmade creations: ceramics, jewelry, clothing, wooden objects, sculptures, stained glass, natural cosmetics, and many other original creations. The festival also hosts a clothing and accessories swap fair, without monetary transaction, in a spirit of recycling and responsible consumption. The ecological approach is omnipresent: decorations are made from recycled fabrics, and festival wristbands are made from reclaimed materials.

Creative and well-being workshops for everyone

Rendez-vous là-Haut offers a rich program of creative workshops open to both children and adults. Over the years, visitors have been able to learn clay modeling, origami, crochet, aromatherapy, watercolor, macrame, calligraphy, zero-waste sewing, and how to make dreamcatchers or birdhouses. Most workshops operate on a pay-what-you-feel basis, with participants setting the price according to their appreciation. Yoga, Do In, and Reiki sessions complement this well-being offer, inviting relaxation in the natural setting of the Mézenc plateau.

Nature walks and discoveries

The festival takes advantage of its exceptional mountain environment by offering guided walks and hikes: discovery of edible wild plants with local specialists, dusk outing to observe birds of prey, night hike to discover the treasures of the night, and sunrise at the summit of Mont Mézenc (1,753 m), the highest point in Haute-Loire. These outings, often offered at a low cost or for free, allow visitors to (re)discover the natural richness of the Mézenc and Haut-Lignon region.

Shows, music, and folk dance

The festival's artistic program combines street performances, theater, puppetry, and concerts. On Saturday evening, a folk dance under a marquee invites festival-goers to dance to traditional tunes and mixed musical styles. The shows, accessible to all ages, are offered free of charge. Among the groups and companies that have animated past editions, the festival has hosted folk bands and comedy shows in a warm and relaxed atmosphere.

Local catering and conviviality

The festival's refreshment stand and snack bar focus on local products and homemade recipes, including the famous artisanal fries prepared on-site. A mobile wood-fired oven was also set up during some editions to offer wood-fired bread and pizzas. The entire festival breathes conviviality, sharing, and a return to roots, in an accessible and environmentally friendly festive spirit.