Les fêtes d'Arles

The Satin Race has been held since 1529. This type of race belongs to the ancient ritual ceremonies bequeathed to Christianity by ancient civilizations. Originally, horse races were held in Arles on Saturday, the eve of Pentecost and a major fair day. The prize was a green silk scarf with silver bangs. This event is now held at the beginning of June. Born of a solar flame taken from Canigou in 1955, the St Jean flame burns all year round. Kept at the Castillet in Perpignan by the Catalans, it is handed over to the people of Provence in June, passing through some sixty towns and villages, including Arles on June 23. On the Friday before the Costume Festival, a long evening parade in traditional costumes, the Pégoulado, brings together over a thousand participants on the boulevard des Lices in Arles. As for the Fête du Costume, it takes place on the 1st Sunday in July, with a costume parade followed by a gathering at the Théâtre Antique. Every three years, the new Queen of Arles is enthroned. The Golden Cockade takes place on the Monday following the Costume Festival. This is the most prestigious of all Camargue races.