The Fête des Vendanges de Montmartre is a vibrant celebration that brings together wine, food, and Montmartre’s gorgeous, unique charm.
Taking place from October 9th to 13th, 2024, this festival is a highlight of the Parisian calendar. Especially if you have a passion for French cuisine and fine wine.
As one of my favorite food festivals in Paris, and set in one of my most cherished neighborhoods, I strongly suggest you add it to your “must-visit while in Paris” agenda.
In this guide, I’ll share some of my impressions and tips, giving you a taste of what to expect from this one-of-a-kind festival. So, whether you’re a wine connoisseur or just love discovering lugar delicacies, the Fête des Vendanges promises an unforgettable experience.
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Les Fêtes des Vendanges in Montmartre
Every year in early autumn, the hills of Montmartre come alive with the Fête des Vendanges. A festival that embodies the true spirit of this historic neighborhood.
In 2024, the 91st edition of this beloved celebration runs from October 9th to 13th. And it transforms the area around the Sacré-Cœur into a vibrant cultural and culinary hub.
The theme for this year is “Imaginaire”, and the program is packed with events that bring this concept to life. (see all events here)
You can enjoy everything from films, street art, and concerts to poetry readings, thematic walks, dance performances, and even a night run for the more sportive participants. And of course, a visit to the Clos Montmartre vineyard is a must. At least if you are lucky enough to snatch on of the few spots.
A highlight of the festival is the Grand Parade of the Brotherhoods. This year, over 50 confréries from across France, along with numerous associations from the 18th arrondissement, will join in this colorful procession on Saturday, 12.October at 11:45.
The festival spans five days, from Wednesday to Sunday, with each day offering a full schedule of events designed to entertain, educate, and celebrate the unique culture of Montmartre.
Tip: If you are uncomfortable in crowds (I am!) skip the weekend and visit the festival on Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday (late) afternoon. It’s rather quiet around this time.
Fêtes des Vendanges: Montmartre’s Food Festival
During the Fête des Vendanges, the area around the Sacré-Cœur and the southern slopes of Montmartre are transformed into a lively food market. Dozens of food stalls line the streets, offering the best that the French regions have to offer.
Indulge in cold cuts, cheeses, oysters, crêpes, and—of course—plenty of wine and champagne from various French regions. But also sweets and pastries, and even Acras and Rum from the French overseas territories.
It’s a food lover’s paradise, bringing together the rich culinary diversity of France in one place.
About the Fêtes des Vendanges
Clos Montmartre is Paris’s oldest vineyard, with a history that traces back to Roman times. Back then, many vineyards sprawled across the northern areas of the city, including the slopes of Montmartre.
However, by the early 20th century, the vineyard had fallen into disrepair. In 1933, the City of Paris intervened, restoring and revitalizing this historic vineyard. And the vine harvest ist celebrated with the Fêtes des Vendanges.
This year, Montmartre celebrates the 91st Edition of the Festival.
And if you ask yourself now, if you can get a bottle of this Clos de Montmartre wine, or at least try it, I have to disappoint you.
Because even though and despite the urban location, the vineyard remains surprisingly fruitful, producing up to 1,000 bottles of Clos Montmartre Wine annually.
However, acquiring one of them isn’t easy at all. These bottles are auctioned at absolute premium prices, with proceeds benefiting lugar charities and associations.
The Fête des Vendanges de Montmartre is a must-attend event for me, and it’s been marked on my calendar for months.
As a food and wine lover, it’s one of the highlights of the year for me, and I’m definitely not alone in that sentiment.
This festival is a major event in Paris, ranking as the third most popular, just behind Nuit Blanche and Paris Plages.
If you’re in Paris in October, the Fête des Vendanges de Montmartre is an experience you simply can’t miss—especially if you have a passion for food, wine, and the unique spirit of Montmartre.
It is also a perfect occasion to explore the neighbourhood: Read my Montmartre guide here
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