Every summer, the town of Uzès in the south of France holds a special celebration, Fête Votive. This event is one of the highlights of the year for both locals and visitors. It’s a perfect blend of tradition, fun, and community spirit.
A Festival with Deep Roots
The Fête Votive has a long history. It started as a way to celebrate the end of the harvest and to honor the town’s patron saint, Saint Theodoret of Antioch. Over the years, the festival has grown and now includes many different events and activities that everyone can enjoy.
The Spectacular Procession of Pégoulade
The highlight of the Fête Votive — in my opinion! is undoubtedly the Procession of Pégoulade, a nighttime parade that captures the magic of Uzès. The name “Pégoulade” comes from the Provençal word “pegoul”, which means torch. The tradition of nighttime parades with torches dates back centuries in Provence, and Uzès has embraced this tradition wholeheartedly.
Fete Votive Parade Uzes 2015 – my first and favorite!
History of the Procession of Pégoulade
The Procession of Pégoulade in Uzès began in the early 20th century. Originally, it was a simpler affair, with townspeople carrying torches through the streets to celebrate the end of the harvest and honor Saint Theodoret. Over the years, it has evolved into a grand spectacle with elaborate floats, dazzling lights, and vibrant performances.
A Nighttime Spectacle Not To Be Missed
The Procession of Pégoulade starts at the majestic Saint Theodoret Cathedral and winds its way down the Boulevard Gambetta. As the sun sets, the streets of Uzès come alive with the glow of torches and the hum of excitement. The year that I compare all other processions by is 2015. The parade featured a “back to the future” theme with a “robotic” float named ‘Turbulence Steampunk.’ The float, a steam engine adorned with psychedelic lights and booming music, captivated the audience.
Accompanying the float were performers in belle époque costumes, shooting streamers and confetti, and stilt-walking ladies who painted elegant designs on spectators. The parade was a mesmerizing display of creativity and tradition, set against the backdrop of Uzès’ ancient architecture.
A true fantasy!
Plan Your Visit
If you are planning to visit southern France this summer, be sure to include the Uzès Fête Votive in your plans. It’s a fantastic way to experience the local culture, enjoy exciting events, and create wonderful memories. The Uzès Fête Votive is a celebration you won’t want to miss.
Here’s just a sample of the sights and sounds…
Will they outdo themselves this year? All I can say is, “I can’t wait to see it!”
