Bordeaux Fete le Vin

Name: Bordeaux Fete le Vin
Location: Bordeaux

Four Blissful Days Where the City and Vineyards Celebrate Together

2026/06/17 - 2026/06/20

Every other June, the banks of the Garonne River in Bordeaux come alive with the Bordeaux Wine Festival (Bordeaux Fête le Vin). Over four days, more than 500,000 people stroll the historic quays, savoring some of the world’s finest wines, indulging in local gourmet foods, and soaking up the festive atmosphere amid 18th-century architecture and music. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur, a first-timer, or a family looking for a vibrant experience, this is your chance to feel the true spirit of Bordeaux.

The festival takes place along the river in central Bordeaux, welcoming everyone from beginners to aficionados, families, and groups of friends. Meet winemakers face-to-face, discover new favorites, and immerse yourself in the flavors, aromas, and traditions that make Bordeaux a global wine capital.

Main Attractions

Wine Tasting Route

The highlight is the 3-kilometer wine route along the Garonne, lined with more than 80 wine pavilions. Wines from Médoc, Saint-Émilion, Graves, Sauternes, and other Bordeaux regions are poured, and with a tasting pass and commemorative glass in hand, you can sample reds, whites, rosés, and sparkling wines while chatting with passionate producers. The air is filled with the aromas of oak barrels, ripe fruit, fresh bread, and cheese, making every step a journey through the world of wine.

Key Events

Each day opens with music and fireworks. Masterclasses by sommeliers, wine and food pairing workshops, and tasting cruises on the Garonne offer hands-on experiences. Historic tall ships dock along the quay, offering deck tours and maritime shows. At night, fireworks light up the Place de la Bourse, reflecting in the river and creating a magical atmosphere.

Traditional Food & Drink

Local specialties like canelés (caramelized custard cakes), oysters from Arcachon Bay, foie gras, roast duck, and regional cheeses are everywhere. Food trucks and pop-up stalls serve seafood, charcuterie, and fresh baguettes. The scents of grilled meats, the sea, and sweet pastries mingle in the air, while the fizz of sparkling Crémant and the crunch of baguette add to the sensory feast.

Cultural and Historical Background

The Bordeaux Wine Festival was launched in 1998 to celebrate the city’s centuries-old wine culture and port heritage. Today, it’s a symbol of Bordeaux’s rebirth and pride, a place where winemakers and wine lovers connect directly. For locals, it’s a showcase of tradition and hospitality; for producers, it’s a vital opportunity to share their wines with the world.

Now one of Europe’s premier wine events, the festival captures Bordeaux’s culinary vibrancy, maritime spirit, and deep history—making it a must for anyone wanting to experience the heart of French wine country.

Participant Voices

I joined with friends from Paris. We compared wines we’d always dreamed of, and after speaking with a Saint-Émilion producer about the soil and grapes, each glass tasted even richer. The fireworks at night were the perfect finale!