Religious festivals France

Over the years, Alsace's Christmas markets have proven to be truly magical. For proof of this, a visit to Colmar is a must. For when the festive season arrives, the city of Bartholdi is decked out in sublime decorations and other enchanting illuminations! Since 2018, six markets have been opening their adorable chalets in the following locations: Place des Dominicains, Place Jeanne d'Arc, Petite Venise, Place de l'Ancienne Douane, inside the Koïfhus, and last but not least, in Place de la Cathédrale, dedicated to Alsatian gastronomy. As you stroll along, you'll be able to enjoy a delicious mulled wine while soaking up the festive atmosphere. Various fun and picturesque events are organized along the way. Not to be missed!

In October, locals and visitors alike gather for 3 days of religious entertainment to celebrate the feast of Majesty Sainte Foy in Conques. After a conference on Friday, the celebrations continue on Saturday: pilgrimage walk, First Vespers and presentation of the Abbey Tympanum, torchlight procession through the village... The weekend ends with the solemn procession of Sainte Foy, a mass and a concert by the choir.

For the feast of Saint Nicholas, the boss of Lorraine and his father week spend most of Lorraine's cities.

Nature in all its senses. Every year, during the weekend of Pentecost, Béthune is in celebration. In the different buildings and streets of the city, you can attend numerous animations and take part in an agricultural fair. Children love the living farm and can approach the animals as close as possible. The Marmottan, Rabin and Lamartine places are teeming with activities. An ideal family outing.

It's an annual event that leaves no one indifferent, including non-believers! Indeed, when the Indian community of the 10th and 18th districts celebrates Ganesh, the elephant-headed God, protector of the home, who brings luck and prosperity, the rendezvous is very colourful! This traditional and lively parade is accompanied by musicians, dancers and rituals. It takes place in the district of La Chapelle, which, for the occasion, changes completely: thousands of people invade the street, and it is just impossible to get around! If, on the other hand, you are a pedestrian and passing through, then take the time to watch this show that is worth the detour!

Sunday 3 May.

Each year, the Maillanais commemorate the birth of the poet Frédéric Mistral, born on 8 September 1830. During this day, a mass in Provence was followed by a pilgrimage to the cemetery in tribute to the poet with the participation of the Atelier du Costume, Des and Children of Schools workshop. Then, place to show and animations, with concert and book to book in the streets of the village.

Renaissance of a former local tradition where the villagers secretly celebrated their patron saint Clair through a long solemn procession through the streets. Rounds of tromblons, songs, folk dances and three scenes interpreted on the square of Romérage close this procession.

A votive feast in honour of Saint Francis of Paule who saved the city of plague in 1482.

Our Lady of the Bikers is a festive pilgrimage. Known throughout France and attracting bikers since 1953, the Madonna has grown over the years. A pilgrimage for some, it is also a festive occasion and a huge gathering of motorcyclists. The highlights are divided between religious celebrations (vespers at 5pm on the 14th, mass at 10am on the 15th, followed by the blessing of the motorcycles at 11.30am), rock concerts from the 14th to the evening interspersed with the torchlight vigil, and the ride on the 15th, through the Pays de l'Oust in Brocéliande.