Bordeaux - Local Festivals and Events
Bordeaux Wine Festival (Fête le Vin)
The Bordeaux Wine Festival is one of the largest wine events in Europe, attracting wine lovers from around the world. Held every two years along the Garonne River, this four-day festival showcases wines from across the Bordeaux region, including tastings, vineyard tours, and wine-related workshops. The festival also features food stalls offering local delicacies, art exhibitions, and musical performances, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere. The highlight is the grand fireworks display that lights up the riverbanks, making this event a must-visit for any wine enthusiast.
Marathon du Médoc
The Marathon du Médoc is an iconic event that combines running with wine, food, and fun. Taking place annually in the Médoc region, this marathon is known for its festive and whimsical atmosphere, with participants often running in costumes. Along the route, runners pass through some of the most famous châteaux in Bordeaux, where they can sample wines, enjoy oysters, cheese, and other regional specialties. The marathon is as much about enjoying the journey as it is about crossing the finish line, making it a unique celebration of Bordeaux’s wine culture.
Saint-Émilion Harvest Festival (Fête des Vendanges)
The Saint-Émilion Harvest Festival is a celebration of the grape harvest in one of Bordeaux’s most prestigious wine regions. Held annually in late September, this event includes wine tastings, vineyard tours, and traditional processions. The festival is also marked by a grand banquet, where locals and visitors come together to enjoy regional dishes paired with the area’s finest wines. The event reflects the deep connection between the local community and the winemaking traditions that have shaped the region for centuries.
Bordeaux Tasting Event
The Bordeaux Tasting Event is an annual gathering organized by the wine magazine Terre de Vins. Held in the historic Palais de la Bourse, this event brings together over 150 wine estates, offering tastings of Bordeaux’s finest wines, as well as selections from other regions in France. Visitors can meet winemakers, attend masterclasses, and explore themed tasting areas. The event is an excellent opportunity for both novices and connoisseurs to deepen their understanding of Bordeaux’s diverse wine offerings.
Fête de la Fleur
Fête de la Fleur is an exclusive annual event that celebrates the flowering of the vines in Bordeaux. Organized by the Commanderie du Bontemps, one of Bordeaux’s oldest wine fraternities, the event takes place at a different prestigious château each year. Attended by prominent figures from the wine industry and beyond, Fête de la Fleur includes a grand dinner, official ceremonies, and the induction of new members into the Commanderie. While primarily an invitation-only event, it plays a significant role in Bordeaux’s wine culture and heritage.
Blaye Spring Wine Festival
The Blaye Spring Wine Festival is a lively event held in the picturesque town of Blaye, within the Côtes de Bordeaux appellation. The festival features over 80 winemakers offering tastings of their wines, along with food stalls, live music, and craft markets. Visitors can explore the historic Citadel of Blaye, a UNESCO World Heritage site, while enjoying the local wines and atmosphere. The event is an excellent opportunity to discover lesser-known wines from the Blaye region in a relaxed and festive setting.