Getting carried away at the fête votive
In the 2nd week of October (generally), after the grape and the salt harvests, the city is abuzz with activity. For 11 days, Aigues-Mortes lives to the rhythm of bull runs, bodégas, dances and concerts in the town square... The fête votive is a time for socializing and getting together, celebrating with friends and enjoying a drink (in moderation!).
The festival program
Click here for a detailed program of the 2024 Fête Votive.
Each day of festivities is punctuated by abrivados, bandidos and bull races.
Traditionally, the locals gather in the meadows in the morning, where the bulls will be sorted by the gardians. It's an opportunity to have a "meadow brunch". Once sorted, the bulls arrive in town surrounded by the gardians on horseback - this is abrivado.
In the afternoon, a race takes place in the arena. In Aigues-Mortes, the arena is portable. Each local family has their own wooden bleachers known as a theatre. The layout of the theatres makes up the arena, known as the plan. At the end of the race, the gardians take the bulls back through town to the meadows - this is bandido.
A word of advice: follow the locals’ advice to stay behind the barriers when the bulls cross town!
Practical information
WHERE TO PARK ?
During the festival, a free parking is made available on the lawn at the south ramparts. All other parking lots are free except for parking P1 and P2, which are used by the fairground. Find out all about parkings à Aigues-Mortes.
WHERE TO SEE THE BULL RACES ?
Bull races are held at the south ramparts. The ground arena, le plan, is made up of private bleachers belonging to the residents of Aigues-Mortes. For visitors, the town hall provides iron stands. A word of advice: take your place as early as possible, as the festival is a victim of its own success!
IS THE FESTIVAL ACCESSIBLE TO PEOPLE WITH REDUCED MOBILITY ?
Street entertainment is accessible to people with reduced mobility, but please note that many streets are cobbled. To see a race on le plan, the municipal stands have a sloping surface and a reserved area. We advise you to come early to take your seat, as the bleachers fill up quickly.
ARE PETS ALLOWED ?
Animals are allowed during the festivities. Please note that the town receives many visitors. Our little friends may be afraid of the crowds and not be seen by passersby.
WILL THE FESTIVITIES TAKE PLACE REGARDLESS OF THE WEATHER ?
Yes, events will take place regardless of the weather, as long as it does not pose a safety risk to you, the gardians or their animals.
WHAT TO DO IN THE EVENT OF A PROBLEM ?
In the event of a problem, you can contact a member of the municipal police or go directly to 50 Boulevard Gambetta.
WHAT TO DO IN THE EVENT OF LOSS OR THEFT ?
If you've lost an item, contact the local police or the Lost & Found department at 04 66 53 69 73.
WHAT IS PROHIBITED DURING THE festival ?
Illegal substances, weapons and other explosive, flammable or volatile substances, all dangerous objects, any pyrotechnic items, signs and banners, of any size, not authorized by the organizers, be it of a political, ideological, religious or advertising nature.
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Office de tourisme
Aigues-Mortes
Place Saint Louis - BP 23
30220 AIGUES-MORTES
