Event Details
Welcome to the Fête des Bergers 2026 in Aramits
From September 17 to 20, 2026, the small mountain village of Aramits in the Béarn, at the heart of the Vallée de Barétous, becomes the stage for one of the oldest shepherd festivals in the Pyrenees. The Fête des Bergers celebrates its 44th edition in 2026, honoring the centuries old tradition of transhumance, when flocks and their shepherds return from the high summer pastures to the valley below.
Highlights and Attractions at the Fête des Bergers in Aramits
- A guided hike retracing the shepherds' final stretch on their way down from the mountain pastures
- The traditional shepherd's supper accompanied by local singers
- A grand costumed parade through the village, led by cows, sheep and their shepherds
- A cheese competition with awards and tastings of regional sheep and cow cheeses
- Traditional singing contests featuring choirs from the Basque Country, Béarn and Bigorre
- A panel discussion on the future of pastoral farming in the Pyrenees
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Program and Schedule: What Happens and When in Aramits
The festival opens on Thursday with a day dedicated to discovering the local area, followed on Friday by a guided hike where visitors can accompany the shepherds on the last leg of their journey from the Plateau de Chousse to Arette. The evening continues with the shepherd's supper at the village hall in Aramits. The highlight of the weekend is the grand costumed parade through the streets of the village on Sunday, bringing together herds, folk musicians and vintage farm machinery.
Tickets and Admission for the Fête des Bergers 2026
Access to most of the street events, including the parade and musical performances, is free. The guided hike costs around 5 euros, and the festive shepherd's supper is priced at about 17 euros for adults and 8 euros for children, seats are limited and early booking is recommended.
Visitor Tips: Travel and Accommodation in Aramits
- Aramits sits in the Vallée de Barétous, easily reached via Oloron Sainte Marie in the Béarn
- Sturdy footwear, water and a packed snack are recommended for the hike, and a medical certificate is required at registration
- Accommodation in this rural corner of the Béarn should be booked well ahead of the festival weekend
- Evening events have limited seating, so reserving early with the organizers is worthwhile
