Montmartre Grape Harvest Festival

A Celebration of the Vineyard in Paris

Every October, the cobblestone streets of Montmartre come alive with the Fête des Vendanges, a five-day celebration of wine, gastronomy, and Parisian culture. Set against the iconic backdrop of the Sacré-Cœur Basilica, this unique festival transforms the 18th arrondissement into a bustling hub of culinary delights, attracting over 500,000 visitors each year to Paris's only active vineyard.

Main Attractions

The Grand Parade

The highlight of the festival is undoubtedly the Grand Parade, a vibrant procession that winds through the narrow streets of Montmartre. Locals and visitors line the parade route, their excited chatter mingling with the cheerful melodies of street musicians. Costumed performers, members of wine fraternities in ceremonial robes, and local residents march, filling the air with the sweet scent of grapes and the earthy aroma of autumn leaves.

Le Parcours du Goût

The "Taste Trail," or Le Parcours du Goût, is a gastronomic journey that stimulates all the senses. Over 40 bars and restaurants participate, offering a diverse range of regional dishes. Stalls line the streets, the sizzle of grilled sausages mixing with the pungent aroma of aged cheeses. Visitors can sample everything from crisp Alsace wines to rich, velvety foie gras, each bite a celebration of French cuisine.

Auction of Clos Montmartre Wines

The auction of Clos Montmartre wines is a prestigious event that draws enthusiasts and curious spectators alike. Inside a large tent brimming with anticipation, bidders compete for the limited 1,500 bottles of wine produced annually from this urban vineyard. The rapid-fire voice of the auctioneer is accompanied by the sound of corks popping and glasses clinking as participants savor the unique terroir of grapes grown in Paris.

Cultural and Historical Background

The Fête des Vendanges de Montmartre was established in 1934 by local artists and officials to celebrate the region's winemaking heritage. The festival recalls the area's rural past when vineyards covered the Montmartre hill before urbanization took over.

For Parisians, the festival is more than just a celebration of wine; it is a testament to the enduring spirit of Montmartre. It reflects the area's artistic heritage, community bonds, and ability to preserve tradition in the heart of a modern metropolis. The annual involvement of celebrities as honorary presidents highlights the cultural significance of the festival, linking today's celebrations with the neighborhood's rich historical past.

Voices of the Participants

I've been coming to the Fête des Vendanges with my family since I was a child. This year, I brought my grandchildren for the first time. Watching their eyes light up at the colorful sights and sounds as the parade passed by, I felt like I was back in my childhood. The smell of roasted chestnuts and hot wine—that's the scent of autumn for me. And the taste of the local wine! It may not be the best in France, but for us, it’s part of our identity.

I stumbled upon this festival while planning an autumn trip to Paris. At first, I thought it was a joke— a vineyard in Paris? But when I arrived, it was unbelievable. I've never seen anything like it. This morning, I took a tour of the Clos Montmartre vineyard. The guide explained the challenges of urban viticulture and the history of the vineyard. Later, tasting the wine, I was surprised by its unique character— a bit rough around the edges, but charming, just like Montmartre itself.

Having lived in Montmartre for over ten years, the Fête des Vendanges is my favorite time of the year. It’s when our community truly comes together. This year, I’m exhibiting my paintings in one of the pop-up galleries. The festival always inspires me— it transforms our neighborhood and fills every corner with color and life. I love chatting with visitors and sharing stories about Montmartre’s artistic heritage. Yesterday, I met an elderly gentleman who modeled for Picasso as a child. It’s these connections and stories that make this festival so special.

Interesting Facts

The Clos Montmartre vineyard, though only 0.15 hectares (0.37 acres), produces about 1,500 bottles of 500ml wine annually.
The festival features an unconventional "non-wedding ceremony" that celebrates not getting married.
Every year, a local artist designs a unique label for the Clos Montmartre wine bottles, making them highly sought-after by collectors.
The vineyard is home to 27 different grape varieties, including rare and ancient ones.
Proceeds from the wine auction are donated to local charities supporting the 18th arrondissement of Paris.