The Veraison: A Medieval Festival In Châteauneuf-du-pape

Every year, the town of Châteauneuf-du-Pape celebrates the veraison by organizing three days of medieval festivities centered around the wines of the appellation. The Veraison Festival is an opportunity to taste local wines and enjoy various medieval entertainments.

Wine and the Middle Ages

Véraison is the time of year when grape berries swell and begin to take on the color they will have at maturity. In Châteauneuf-du-Pape, this pivotal moment is celebrated every year on the first weekend of August.

The Véraison Festival revolves around wine and the Middle Ages: not only does Châteauneuf-du Pape wine flow freely, but the village also takes on a medieval atmosphere with entertainment, processions, and parades!

Just like in the 14th century, when the Popes of Avignon would travel to their summer residence in Châteauneuf, knights and noble ladies, minstrels and jugglers, merchants and tavern keepers all join in the festivities.

2024 Edition

The Châteauneuf-du-Pape Grape Harvest Festival will take place from August 2 to 4, 2024.

From Friday, August 2 to Sunday, August 4 starting at 10 am:
Medieval market with over a hundred stalls
Entertainment and workshops at the camps,
Free flight of birds of prey,
Street performances, minstrels, and jugglers
Combat and weapon demonstrations
Strolling musicians
Small educational farm
Wooden games
Knighting of children
Passage of donkeys and the "tasting" barrel until 9 pm
Medieval taverns and village restaurants,
Wine tasting in cellars open from 10 am to 7 pm

Friday:
11 am: Inaugural parade of Pope Clement VI and his Pontifical Court
9 pm: Concert by Les Gras Jambons (Campements Square)

Saturday:
11 am: Parade of Pope Clement VI and his Pontifical Court
9 pm: Fire show by Les Tanarüks (Campements Square)

Sunday:
11 am: Parade of Pope Clement VI and his Pontifical Court
9 pm: Closing parade with all the troops
9:30 pm: Equestrian Show with the Stables of the Real (municipal stadium).

Practical information

The 37th Medieval Festival of La Véraison will take place in Châteauneuf-du-Pape from August 2nd to 4th, 2024.

PRICES
Adult:
Single entry: 5 euros
Tasting entry: 10 euros
Free for those under 18 years old.

Advance tickets available at the Tourist Office from July 1st to August 1st: 6 euros
Sunday evening show only: 5 euros