Fête Votive!
Oh my! Every August, the streets of Uzès turn from business into a carnival. It’s Fête Votive! Bulls run in the streets; brass bands with men and women in colorful uniforms “oomph-pa-pa” through the village; and parades with spectacular floats fill the place with music and lights.
The Uzès Fête Votive schedule goes on for six days. This is the running of the Bulls — Day One.
People line Uzès’s “main” street, waiting for the entertainment to start.
Excitement Builds on Day One of the Uzès Fête Votive
Uzès Fête Votive lasts six exciting days. This is the running of the bulls — Day One. People line Uzès’s “main” street, eagerly waiting for the fun to start.
Horses and cowboys from the Camargue ready themselves for the action – knowing they have a big job ahead!
Camargue Cowboys and Restless Horses
The horses are restless, feeling the excitement. Even so, one horse made a special effort to pose for the camera, a calm moment before the rush. Handlers listen closely for the signal to release the Camargue bulls; their muscles tense with anticipation.
They know there’s a significant, dangerous job ahead.
Horses are restless. Even so, this one made a special effort to pose for the camera.
Handlers were listening for the signal to release their cargo of Camargue bulls.
Anticipation in the Crowds of Uzès
The crowds were anxious.
The Bulls Race Through the Streets of Uzès
The crowds are buzzing with excitement. Then, suddenly, the truck gate drops, and the bulls dash out in a flash. They’re so fast, I can barely see them, and my camera can’t keep up. Three bulls are released at once, and I think I missed it all.
In just a few minutes, a buzz from the excited crowd signaled the bulls were on the way back!
Oops! Too fast. Missed again.
Thinking I had missed getting a shot of the bulls, I saw that the young people standing near me — Arnaud and his friends from Normandy — had captured the action on video. They were more than happy to share it for the blog.
(Thank you, Arnaud!)
Yes, it was over that fast. It was 2+ seconds!
I didn’t know that chasing the bulls up and down the boulevard lasts an hour. Up and down, down and up.
And if you walk down the street, there are better places to view the spectacle.
An Hour of Thrills: Bulls and Horses Up and Down
After an hour of bulls and horses running up and down the street, I was able to catch a few decent shots. They come storming down from the boulevard in a mass of horses with riders, bulls, and people chasing the bulls. Then they’re gone.
Yes, they were that close!
If you wonder what it feels like to be standing in the middle of a street with horses and bulls headed your way, check out the video.
Experience the Tradition and Excitement of Uzès Fête Votive
The Fête Votive in Uzès is a truly special experience, blending tradition with excitement. The running of the bulls is just one of many thrilling events during this six-day celebration. It’s a time when the community comes together to celebrate their heritage, enjoy the festive atmosphere, and create unforgettable memories.
For those looking to experience the vibrant culture and traditions of Uzès, the Fête Votive is an event not to be missed. The mix of music, parades, and the exciting running of the bulls makes for an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the energy and excitement of this festival will leave you wanting more.
Join the Fun in Uzès Next August
So, mark your calendars and join the fun at Fête Votive in Uzès next August. You won’t want to miss the chance to be part of this amazing celebration.
