Event Details
Welcome to the Fête de la Tarasque 2027 in Tarascon
In the small town of Tarascon on the banks of the Rhône in Provence, a legend comes to life every summer, and has done so for more than 550 years: the Tarasque, a mythical creature part dragon and part turtle, said to have been tamed by Saint Martha. The Fête de la Tarasque, recognized by UNESCO as an element of intangible cultural heritage, turns the old town into a living medieval spectacle. Exact dates for 2027 have not yet been published, though the festival traditionally takes place at the end of June.
Highlights and Attractions at the Fête de la Tarasque in Tarascon
- The grand procession with nearly 800 costumed participants surrounding the roaring Tarasque
- Medieval reenactments at the Château de Tarascon, including knight fights and craft demonstrations
- The arrival of Tartarin, the famous literary character created by Alphonse Daudet, along the Rhône
- Camargue bull races and abrivados in the streets and in the arena
- Free concerts and a bodega village with live music
- A large shared aioli meal, a traditional Provençal gathering
- A fair and family friendly activities throughout the town
Program and Schedule: What to Expect in 2027
The festival traditionally runs over four days, from Thursday or Friday through Sunday or Monday at the end of June. The highlight is the grand procession over the weekend, when the Tarasque is paraded through the streets. At the same time, the Château de Tarascon hosts medieval reenactments, while the arenas and streets fill with Camargue races and abrivados. The detailed program and yearly theme for 2027 will only be announced by the town in spring.
Tickets and Admission for the Fête de la Tarasque 2027
Most of the Fête de la Tarasque is free to attend, including the procession, the concerts at the bodega village and the activities across the town center. Some individual elements, such as certain seats at the Camargue races in the arena, may be ticketed through local organizers, with official prices only announced closer to the event.
Visitor Tips: Travel and Accommodation in Tarascon
- Tarascon sits on the Rhône between Avignon and Arles and is easy to reach by train or by car
- Streets in the old town are often closed to traffic during the festival, so arriving on foot or by bicycle is the easiest way into the center
- Late June can already bring strong heat in Provence, so light clothing and sun protection are recommended
- Accommodation in Tarascon, Beaucaire or Arles should be booked early given the large number of visitors
