A true symbol of Beaucaire's identity, the Fêtes de la Madeleine have their roots in the heart of the city's history. In the past, Beaucaire's reputation extended far beyond the Rhône thanks to the great Foire de la Sainte-Marie-Madeleine, which attracted merchants and visitors from around the world. In the 17th and 18th centuries, this event shaped the city's prosperity and renown.
Today, although the fair no longer exists, the festive spirit remains as alive as ever. Every summer, Beaucaire pays homage to Sainte-Marie-Madeleine and celebrates its traditions in a warm and friendly atmosphere: bullfighting fair, concerts, bodegas, parades, abrivados, Camargue races, the release of 100 bulls, fireworks, and more.
An authentic meeting where fervor, sharing and the good life combine, to taste all the richness of Camargue culture.
The history of the Madeleine celebrations in Beaucaire
The Madeleine celebrations have their origins in the Sainte-Marie Madeleine Fair. From the 15thrd century, this free fair took place every year in Beaucaire and attracted sellers and buyers from all over Europe and the Mediterranean region.
Origins and evolution over the centuries
The Sainte-Marie-Madeleine Fair was established in 1464. Its purpose was to revitalize the economy after the Hundred Years' War and its impact on trade. The fair began on the eve of Sainte-Marie-Madeleine, on the evening of July 21. There had to be a Thursday and a Monday during this week, so its duration varied from year to year.
The Madeleine Fair in the 17th century
For several centuries, the fair remained a large market of medium size. It was in the 17th and 18th centuries that it reached its peak and dethroned other European fairs. The city then experienced spectacular growth: it had to accommodate merchants and buyers from all over Europe.
Travelers traveled up and down the Rhône to Beaucaire and trade tax-free. The population doubled, and sumptuous private mansions and grand buildings were constructed to accommodate the influx of visitors, which could reach between 60,000 and 120,000 people depending on the year.
It was said that at the Beaucaire fair, you could buy and sell anything: precious wood, rare and expensive fabrics, silk, spices and many other wonders.
With the arrival of the train and the steamboat, trade was modernized and the fair gradually faded. But, dear to the hearts of the people of Beaucaire, its memory lives on: every evening of July 21, the town continues to honor its patron saint, Saint Mary Magdalene.
Highlights of the festivities
The festivities begin on the eve of Saint Mary Magdalene's Day, July 21, and last an average of eight days. This "eight" is punctuated by numerous events that celebrate Beaucaire and its traditions.
The grand opening parade
This magnificent parade, held on July 21, brings together more than 700 performers who proudly parade through the streets of Beaucaire. The public flocks to admire them and immerse themselves, for a moment, in the history of the city.
Camargue races and bullfighting shows
The Madeleine Festival is also a highlight for those passionate about course camarguaiseThe Palme d'Or brings together the best raseteurs of the moment in the arenas of Beaucaire. This traditional sport, without killing, is a true ode to the courage and nobility of the Camargue bull.
All the entertainment
These festivals are opportunities to discover local traditions. release 100 bulls is undoubtedly the most impressive: supervised by the guardians on horseback, a hundred bulls roam the town while the young people of Beaucaire test their bravery by trying to catch them.
The abrivados, which consist of leading the bulls from the meadow to the arena, also punctuate the festivities. Each one different, they offer their share of surprises and emotions every day.
Do not miss:
- Old-fashioned abrivado, embellished with a parade of horse-drawn carriages and costumed participants;
- The carnival abrivado, colorful;
- The abrivado of Pamplona ;
- or, the long abrivado of the plain, to name a few examples.
Atmosphere and conviviality
A friendly and festive atmosphere takes over the city, carried by the mildness of the South. Day and night, there's always something happening during the Fêtes de la Madeleine!
Bodegas, outdoor concerts and nightlife 🥳
Every evening, open-air concerts enliven the bullfighting fair, where Beaucairois people meet to have a drink, dine together and attend colorful shows.
The atmosphere is becoming more and more festive in the wineries, some investing in emblematic places like the Coquemar, nestled in the courtyard of a superb private mansion in the historic center, or the cave, which illuminates the rock overlooking the restaurant for the occasion.
The highlight of the festival remains the fireworks fired from the fortress on the last evening: a magical and moving spectacle which ends the week in style.
The involvement of residents and associations
Every year, the people of Beaucaire demonstrate their commitment to these festivals and actively participate in them. Local sports and bullfighting associations liven up the bodegas, organize abrivados, parades, and evenings, thus perpetuating the spirit of celebration and sharing.
Practical information for visitors
All the information you need to discover and experience the Madeleine celebrations!
Access and transport
The city lives to the rhythm of abrivados and parades; it is not uncommon for some streets to be temporarily closed. Since distances remain short, it is often best to park your vehicle and continue on foot.
➡️ It is advisable to park at the meadow, behind the municipal casino — parking is free there.
Coming by train :
Beaucaire train station is served by regional trains. Find all the useful information here.
Accommodation and catering
Where to sleep during the Madeleine Festival?
Beaucaire and its surroundings are full of charming hotels, guest rooms et restaurants honoring the local soil.
👉 Find all our good addresses!
Restaurant
Restaurant
Restaurant
Restaurant
Restaurant
Restaurant
Bed and Breakfast
3 stars Campsite
Gîte 4 personnes – Le Pigeonnier
Furnished rental and holiday cottage
Book online From 235 € / Night
3 ears of corn Furnished rental and holiday cottage
Chambre d’Hôtes – Si par hasard
Bed and Breakfast
Aire de Camping-cars Beaucaire
Motorhome service / reception area
The Fêtes de la Madeleine in Beaucaire is an unmissable event that combines traditions, shows and conviviality. Every summer, the town comes alive with parades, abrivados and moments of sharing that make the heart of the city beat faster. CamargueCome and live this unique experience and immerse yourself in the warm and festive atmosphere of BeaucairePlan your visit now to discover the authenticity and pride of a living culture, passionately passed down from generation to generation.
When are the Madeleine celebrations?
The Madeleine de Beaucaire celebrations take place from the evening of July 21st and last on average 8 days.
What are the dates of the Madeleine celebrations in 2026?
The 2026 Madeleine celebrations will take place from July 21 to July 27.
What is the significance of the Feast of the Madeleine?
The Madeleine Festival in Beaucaire originates from the Madeleine Fair, established in the Middle Ages. It has gradually evolved to become one of the oldest and most emblematic in the region. It takes place from July 21st, with a program of bullfighting traditions, open-air concerts, parades in period costumes and bodegas…
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