Sortie du Poulain de Pézenas
Tradition/folklore in Pézenas, Hérault
2026
About Sortie du Poulain de Pézenas
Sortie du Poulain de Pézenas — edition 2026
The Outing of the Poulain of Pézenas is one of the highlights of the Pézenas Carnival (Hérault). A giant totemic animal made of wood and canvas, carried by several bearers and guided by fifes and tambourines, the Poulain parades through the streets of the old town during the festivities from Sant Blasi to Carnival. The 2026 edition, from February 13 to 17, is exceptional: it celebrates the 800th anniversary of the legend of the Poulain and the 20th anniversary of its inscription on UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list.
The Outing of the Poulain of Pézenas — Carnival 2026
The Poulain of Pézenas is the living emblem of the carnival of this Hérault city. According to the legend born at the beginning of the 13th century, during a visit by King Louis VIII to Pézenas, a foal was said to have been born miraculously. Since then, this giant totem — a wooden structure covered in canvas, animated by several bearers and accompanied by fifes and tambourines — parades through the streets of the historic center during carnival.
In 2026, the Poulain's outings are part of the carnival festivities that take place from Sant Blasi to Carnival, with a core program from February 13 to 17, 2026 (Mardi Gras on February 17). The program combines Poulain parades, traditional music concerts, street performances, popular dances (including the 'danse des treilles'), children's carnival, and family entertainment in the alleys of the old town.
The year 2026 is very special: it marks the 800th anniversary of the legend of the Poulain as well as the 20th anniversary of its inscription on UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list. On this occasion, the City of Pézenas is rolling out an anniversary program throughout the year, with an official launch on February 17, 2026, and a major popular event, « La Poulinade », scheduled for late September 2026.
A popular and free event, accessible to all, the Outing of the Poulain takes place in the streets of Pézenas (34120).
Highlights Sortie du Poulain de Pézenas 2026
- 50th edition
- In Pézenas, Hérault
Prices Sortie du Poulain de Pézenas 2026
Sortie du Poulain de Pézenas — 2027 edition
The 2026 edition was held from 13 February to 17 February 2026. The dates for the 2027 edition have not been announced yet. This page will be updated as soon as the official programme is published.
Practical information — Sortie du Poulain de Pézenas
Practical Information
Location
Pézenas (34120), Hérault.
Access
Travel to Pézenas by road. Parking available on the outskirts of the event site. Consult official information for access details.
Prices
Free admission.
Contact
For more information, consult the official website of the event or contact the Pézenas town hall.
Sortie du Poulain de Pézenas in Pézenas
Sortie du Poulain de Pézenas is a must-attend event in the cultural life of Pézenas and the Hérault department, in Occitanie. Since its creation in 1977, this event has established itself as a benchmark for tradition/folklore, attracting a loyal and curious audience each year.
Presentation
Procession of Pézenas's totem animal, the Poulain, through the streets during major festivals and carnival.
An event rooted in its territory
Located in the heart of Pézenas, Sortie du Poulain de Pézenas takes advantage of the exceptional setting of the commune and its heritage. The event fully participates in the tourist attractiveness of the Hérault department and enhances the cultural, natural, and human riches of the Occitanie region. The Hérault department, bathed by the Mediterranean and crossed by varied landscapes from the coast to the Larzac, offers an ideal setting for hosting quality cultural events.
Program and activities
Each edition of Sortie du Poulain de Pézenas offers a varied program combining tradition/folklore and conviviality. Visitors can enjoy multiple activities, discoveries, and moments of sharing that make this event so rich. The complete program is announced each year on the official channels of the event.
A friendly event
Sortie du Poulain de Pézenas is above all a moment of sharing and conviviality. Whether you are an informed enthusiast or simply curious, everyone will find something to satisfy their curiosity and have a pleasant time in Pézenas. The warm welcome from the organizers and volunteers makes each edition a memorable experience.
Where does it take place — Sortie du Poulain de Pézenas
Sortie du Poulain de Pézenas in brief
History of Sortie du Poulain de Pézenas
Edition 2025 Aug 2025Other festivals near Pézenas
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