Transhumance Festival in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence

The highly anticipated 40th edition of the Transhumance Festival will take place in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence on Whit Monday, May 20, 2024. This iconic event, considered one of the most picturesque in Provence, brings together local shepherds each year along with their herds, totaling more than 4000 sheep, lambs, rams, as well as goats and transhumance donkeys, all led by shepherds dressed in traditional costumes.

Transhumance, a centuries-old practice in the Alpilles and Provence, involves the seasonal migration of herds between winter and summer pastures. In the past, this journey, undertaken on foot over more than ten days, primarily aimed at fattening and breeding the animals. Today, this tradition is revived, its importance being recognized for biodiversity conservation, maintenance of rural landscapes, and other crucial environmental missions.

Don't miss: the impressive passage of the herds at 11 am along the main street. Departure from the Crau plateau is scheduled for 10:30 am. After crossing the city center and making several rounds, the herds will return to the plateau and their pens, thus concluding this memorable day.

Program 9 am – 7 pm (city center and Place de la République): Flea market fair 10 am – 1 pm (Place de la République): Bavarian stand (sale of beers and pretzels) 9 am – 1 pm: Raffle ticket sales and poster 9 am – 7 pm (Boulevard Marceau): Cheese market (local producers) 10:30 am: Transhumance Departure and return to the Crau plateau of the herd (goats, carts, and donkeys) + two city tours. 1 pm (Crau plateau): Country meal (€30) organized by the Festival Committee (information at 06.20.85.19.13 or by email comitedesfetesstremy@gmail.com) 5 pm: Raffle drawing