On October 24 and 25, 2026, the bastides of Albret invite you to join them for a festive and friendly weekend! For the 3rd edition of “Bastides en Fête,” set out to explore Lavardac, Vianne, Francescas, and Lamontjoie—four bastides with authentic charm that have some wonderful surprises in store for you.
Ready to travel back in time? Let's head to Albret, in Lot-et-Garonne!
Discover Lavardac in a whole new way! From 10:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m., join the mayor on an orientation and sightseeing tour of the bastide. It’s a fun way to discover the town’s hidden gems and secrets.
Those who enjoy arts and crafts can try their hand at calligraphy during free workshops offered at the media center from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. and from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Quills, ink, and ancient alphabets will transport you to the world of writing from days gone by.
At lunchtime, treat yourself to a medieval feast at the Café des Sports, from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. On the menu: vegetable soup with almond milk, pork stew with vegetables, baked apples, and a medieval-inspired dessert. A convivial moment to share while savoring the flavors of yesteryear.
Want to get moving? Come learn some traditional Gascon dances in the town hall park from 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.
A magical evening featuring music, lights, and fireworks
As night falls, Lavardac has two highlights in store for you!
At 8:30 p.m., join us on the church square for a video mapping show accompanied by music from Célia Gapail. The visual creations produced by the youth of Lavardac will illuminate the building’s facade for an artistic and poetic experience.
Then, at 10 p.m., look up at the sky! A fireworks display will bring this wonderful day to a close from the Place du Château.
Practical Information in Lavardac:
Saturday, October 24: Workshops, knights, and a festive evening
Starting in the afternoon, head to Dominé Park to explore the medieval encampment set up by the reenactment group Les Lions de Guerre. Watch combat demonstrations and get a glimpse into the daily lives of knights.
Those who are curious can also learn about traditional trades at Les Forges du Carrié: blacksmiths, stonemasons, and basket weavers will bring traditional craftsmanship back to life.
Want to get your hands dirty? Join an introductory ceramics workshop with Éliane Barbe, from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Adventure seekers can also try their hand at archery in Dominé Park, from 2:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
At 6 p.m., join us for a musical torchlight procession around the village.
Then, from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., it’s time to enjoy the friendly atmosphere at a local farmers’ market, complete with live music.
Sunday, October 25: A medieval day out for the whole family!
On Sunday, the festivities resume at 9 a.m. with a 7.5-km hike around Lamontjoie.
From 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., the village takes on the atmosphere of a medieval festival!
At Dominé Park, visit the War Lions’ knights’ encampment, featuring combat demonstrations and scenes of daily life. You can also learn about traditional crafts from the artisans of Les Forges du Carrié, who will share their techniques and expertise.
Near the community hall, enjoy a craft market, traditional wooden games, and pony rides for the little ones.
There will be music, too! From 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., discover traditional instruments and let yourself be carried away by the musical interludes of the duo Bluetas, featuring Margaux and David Zubeldia. A barrel organ will also add a musical touch to this festive day.
At 3:00 p.m., set out to explore Lamontjoie on a guided tour with Philippe Souleau.
Don't miss the exhibition “A Country House for the King” either .
And for the more creative among you, anintroductory ceramics workshop will be offered from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Throughout Sunday, you can also enjoy:
Feeling a little hungry? A refreshment stand, a crepe stand, and roasted chestnuts will be available in the community hall throughout the day.
Over the course of the two days, the bastide offers a variety of activities for the whole family.
Come check out the traditional wooden games and Mölkky at Place des Marronniers, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
You can also discover the work of stained-glass artists through an exhibition and enjoy a free tour of the Glass Museum.
Along the ramparts, make way for the archers! From 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., watch archery demonstrations and try your hand at it.
Two days, two different atmospheres!
On Saturday, October 24, join a guided tour of the bastide from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. to learn about its history. In the evening, starting at 8:30 p.m., pianist MarcO Poingt will present a recital combining storytelling and music from around the world at the community hall.
On Sunday, October 25, join us for a medieval-style meal featuring Henri IV’s famous “poule au pot” from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
At 4:00 p.m., let yourself be carried away by the voices of the Chœur de l’Albret during a concert in the church, followed by a reception.
And throughout the weekend, with the “A Wolf in the Bastide” geocaching trail, explore Vianne with your family, solve puzzles, and discover the village’s secrets while having fun.
Practical Information for Vianne:
Starting at 9 a.m., put on your sneakers! A hike will take you on a tour of Francescas and its surroundings.
From 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., take a stroll through the aisles of the flea market set up in the heart of the village. It’s a great opportunity to browse, unearth a few treasures, and enjoy the festive atmosphere.
At 11 a.m., let Guy Planès, the “Raconteur de Pays,” guide you on a discovery walk through the heart of the bastide. For one hour, explore its history, heritage, and fascinating anecdotes.
At lunchtime, it’s time to indulge! From noon to 2 p.m., the restaurant Au Bout du Monde offers a traditional meal featuring two specialties: poule au pot and croustade. A real treat for fans of Southwestern French cuisine!
There will also be music, with a concert by the Tenaresa men's choir, to round out the day in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Practical Information in Francescas
"Bastides en Fête" is also the perfect opportunity to extend your stay and discover the treasures of the Albret region.
With its medieval heritage, charming villages, the cuisine of southwestern France, and outdoor excursions, our destination has plenty to offer for enjoying the All Saints’ Day vacation.
Find the complete program and any updates on the official Bastides en Fête website.
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