Provençal costume is much more than a piece of clothing. It's a way of life. It reflects Provençal culture. It's passed down from generation to generation. Whether brightly colored or more muted, made of precious fabrics, edged or embellished with lace, it's a testament to local expertise. Each piece tells a story, that of the local people, their profession, and their rank.
Discover the origins and specificities of Provençal costume in the Land of Argence. And to what extent its influence is still present today.
A tradition, an art of living
The origins of the traditional Provençal costume
Located at the gates of the Provence Rhone, the Land of Argence was for a long time under the jurisdiction of the Archbishopric of Arles. The Terre d'Argence has been deeply imbued with Provençal traditions and culture. Since the French Revolution, Provence has asserted its identity. It does so through its language, its costumes, its jewelry, and its remarkable headdresses. It is undeniably an important element of our cultural heritage. Many writers have admired the charm of women in Provençal dress. Among them, Frédéric Mistral with his Mireille.
The Beaucairois pass and ribbons
Traditional Provençal clothing in Beaucaire
Beaucaire was naturally influenced by these traditions and developed a particularism in this area. The Beaucairoises added a personal touch in the 19th century. They introduced the “lace pass” into the headdress. This is also called the “Beaucairoise pass”.
The headband of the Arlesian costume is wrapped around a bonnet. It reveals the hair styled in wide bands. The ribbon of the Beaucairoises is partially covered by a lace pass integrated into the bonnet under the headdress. Beaucaire, the ladies adorned their headdresses with velvet and silk ribbons. This was thanks to the goods brought during the great fair. The ribbons had geometric patterns. They thus stood out and were recognized as Beaucairoises.
Village festivals
What are the occasions for wearing Provençal costume?
If you attend a traditional festival, you will see women of all generations wearing the costume. They will parade in the streets or in the arenas. This heritage is passed down from generation to generation. Young girls are proud to wear the costume of their ancestors. They are thus perpetuating a beautiful tradition.
The inhabitants wear the costume during traditional festivals: the Madeleine celebrations in Beaucaire, the European festival in Bellegarde, the horse fair in Fourques, the Saint Vincent's Day à Jonquières-Saint Vincent and basketwork festival à Vallabregues.
The costume is at every party 🤩
21 July 27 July 2026
The Madeleine Festival
A true symbol of Beaucaire's identity, the Fêtes de la Madeleine have their roots in the heart of the town's history. In the past, Beaucaire shone far beyond the Rhône thanks to the great Sainte-Marie-Madeleine Fair, which attracted merchants and visitors from all over the world. In the 17th and 18th centuries, this event shaped the prosperity and…
The Basketry Festival: a journey through time
Every year, the charming Provençal village of Vallabrègues, nestled on the left bank of the Rhône, transforms into a veritable paradise for lovers of crafts and traditions. The European Basketry and Fine Craft Festival offers an immersion into ancestral know-how! This festival, with its unique atmosphere, allows…
Le 31 January 2027
The Feast of Saint Vincent
This is the traditional and famous village wine festival! On the program: celebration of Saint Vincent, the patron saint of winegrowers followed by a joyful procession led by the Bacchic brotherhoods, fifes and drummers, the Tarascon revival band, horse-drawn carriages and costumed villagers... Has this little walk whetted your appetite? The...
03 July 05 July 2026
Equestrian meetings
A must-see event for horse lovers! Every year, at the beginning of summer, the town of Beaucaire becomes the meeting point for the equestrian world and the general public. The Equestrian Encounters, a flagship event of the Terre d'Argence region, offer a unique immersion into the world of horses, combining high-level competitions and dazzling shows…
01 August 28 August 2026
Music and Old Stones Festival
Every summer, the Music and Old Stones Festival in Terre d'Argence invites locals and visitors to discover free concerts in exceptional heritage sites. Romanesque cloisters, chapels, shaded courtyards, and historic locations become the stage for unique musical evenings under the stars. In August, the villages of Beaucaire, Bellegarde, Fourques, Jonquières-Saint-Vincent, and Vallabrègues come alive…
Le 06 September 2026
The Horse Fair
Every year, Fourques, a small village typical of the Terre d'Argence region, hosts an event that attracts all those who are passionate about horses and Camargue traditions: the Horse Fair. A must-see for breeders, herdsmen, and anyone who wants to delve into the fascinating world of horses. The fair is not only...
09 October 25 October 2026
October Festival
Every autumn, the town of Bellegarde comes alive with the famous October Festival. A true local institution, this iconic event is part of the village's identity and soul. Inherited from a strong agricultural past, this traditional festival celebrates Camargue traditions, bullfighting culture, and the art of living in the Terre d'Argence region. Formerly…
Le 16 July 2026
The Epicureans at the Beaucaire Fortress
Every summer, the Beaucaire Fortress becomes the stage for an unmissable festive evening with Les Épicurieux: a free, friendly, and gourmet event that blends heritage, family activities, local producers, and music in the heart of an exceptional historical site overlooking the Rhône. Les Épicurieux at the Fortress is a unique summer experience combining culture, discovery, and…
Star of Bessèges
Every year at the start of the year, the roads of the Gard come alive with the colours of professional jerseys: it's the Étoile de Bessèges – Tour du Gard, the first stage race on the French cycling calendar! Between Bellegarde, Bessèges, Alès and the Cévennes, this event combines sport, passion and discovery of the region. Much more than a sporting competition, this event embodies...
Discover all the local traditions
The Terre d'Argence lies at the confluence of the South. Here, Provence and the Camargue meet!
