The Fêtes de Bayonne is one of France’s largest and most iconic festivals, held annually in Bayonne in the Basque Country. Taking place over five days in July, the festival attracts over a million visitors dressed in traditional white outfits with red scarves. Inspired by the festivals of Pamplona, it features lively parades, concerts, street performances, Basque sporting events, bull runs, and fireworks. The event kicks off with the key ceremony, where the festival’s mascot, King Léon, symbolically takes over the city. It’s a vibrant mix of Basque culture, music, and non-stop partying that brings the city to life.
DATES & TIMES
• Festival dates (2026): Wednesday–Sunday, 15–19 July 2026. Official site.
• Opening ceremony: Wednesday at 17:00 on Place de la Liberté — keys of the city thrown from the Town Hall balcony. See ceremonies.
• Daily ritual: “Réveil du Roi Léon” at 12:00 (Thu–Sun). Learn more.
• Corso lumineux: Saturday & Sunday at 22:00 (lit parade across the city). Parade details.
• Closing night: Sunday — fireworks then farewell to Roi Léon at midnight. See ceremonies.
LOCATION
• Where: Historic centre of Bayonne — Grand Bayonne, Petit Bayonne & Saint‑Esprit districts, focused on Place de la Liberté (Town Hall).
• Open in Google Maps (Place de la Liberté).
TICKETS & ENTRY
• Pass Fêtes bracelet: Required to enter the secure perimeter from Friday 10:00 to Sunday midnight; Wednesday & Thursday are free. (Bayonne residents, people working in the perimeter, and under‑16s: free.) Get your Pass Fêtes.
• Price & pickup: Price announced annually (recently €15). Purchase online or via local resellers (OTs, bars‑tabacs, campsites, post offices). How to obtain.
CAMPING & ACCOMMODATION
• Aire d’accueil de Mousserolles (official tent area): ~1,000 pitches near the centre; bookable with festival packages (full‑festival or weekend). Rates and booking open each year on the official page. Check availability.
• Where to stay: Hotels, B&Bs and rentals across Bayonne and the BAB area. Accommodation info.
GOOD TO KNOW
• Dress code: Wear white with a red scarf (Basque tradition). The outfit.
• Getting around: Traffic & parking are restricted; the centre becomes pedestrian within a secure perimeter. Use public transport and official guidance. Plan your access.
• Highlights: Courses de vaches (festival cow runs), bandas, concerts, parades and more — check times on the official programme. About the runs · Full programme.
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