The Fête des Vendanges de Montmartre is an annual celebration of the grape harvest at Clos Montmartre, a small vineyard tucked into the slopes of Montmartre in Paris's 18th arrondissement. Each October, the neighborhood fills with medieval-style tents, food stalls, and crowds drawn to taste wines from across France and to honor a harvest tradition that dates back nearly a century.
The festival typically unfolds over several days around the second weekend of October, with a program that balances wine-focused events with cultural performances. While general access to many events is free, some activities require advance reservations. Always check the official program for the most current schedule and booking details before planning your trip.
When is the Fête des Vendanges held?
The festival is held annually in October, typically around the second weekend. For example, a recent program referred to the 93rd edition with events running from Wednesday to Sunday in early October. However, exact dates change each year and are confirmed only by the organizers, usually a few months in advance.
Because organizers may adjust dates or program details, rely on the festival's official website for the final word. If you're planning around a specific edition, verify the dates there before booking travel or accommodation.
Where does the festival take place?
The heart of the festival is the Clos Montmartre vineyard itself, located on the slopes near the Sacré-Cœur Basilica. However, events spread across the 18th arrondissement, from the Place des Abbesses to the Arènes de Montmartre and the Square Louise Michel. This means you can explore Montmartre's winding streets while hopping between festival activities.
The area is easily reached by metro; Lamarck-Caulaincourt, Abbesses, and Anvers stations are practical entry points. Keep in mind that the neighborhood is hilly, so comfortable shoes are a must.
History of the Clos Montmartre vineyard
Montmartre's winemaking roots go back to the 12th century, when the Ladies of the Abbey of Montmartre planted vines on the hill. Urbanization gradually erased these vineyards, and by 1928 they had disappeared entirely. In 1933, artist Francis Poulbot campaigned to save a small plot, leading to the replanting of what became Clos Montmartre. The first harvest was celebrated the following year, and the community festival grew from there into the event seen today.
The vineyard remains modest in size, with roughly 2,000 vines, and produces limited quantities of wine each year. Because the harvest is so small, the bottled vintage is highly prized and often auctioned, making it a collector's item for wine enthusiasts.
Event highlights
Festival programming typically includes vineyard visits led by historians, where you can learn about the vines' heritage and the region's winemaking techniques. These tours often require reservations, and spaces can fill quickly, so check the official site for how to book.
Music is central to the celebration, with a dedicated stage at the Arènes de Montmartre hosting concerts across several days. Families might enjoy the children's choir performances in Square Louise Michel, while evening events like DJ sets and a dance party close out the festival on its final day.
If you're curious about French humor, don't miss the 'Cérémonie des non-demandes en mariage'—a playful ceremony where participants celebrate vows not to marry, inspired by a Georges Brassens song. It's a light-hearted example of the festival's cultural and quirky character.
The Parcours du Goût (food and wine market)
The Parcours du Goût is one of the festival's most popular draws, a sprawling open-air market set up around the Sacré-Cœur. Dozens of stalls offer regional specialties—artisan bread, cheeses, pastries, and wines from across France. It's a fantastic opportunity to taste and buy products directly from producers, though it can get crowded on weekends.
Because the market runs over several days, including late hours on Friday and Saturday, you can time your visit to avoid the busiest periods. The market's exact layout and vendors change annually, so look for the official plan to navigate effectively.
Key rituals: Le Ban des Vendanges and the Grand Défilé
The Ban des Vendanges is a formal proclamation that opens the harvest, held at the vineyard on the Saturday morning. It's a ceremonial moment that pays tribute to the winegrowers and sets the tone for the day's festivities.
Following the Ban, the Grand Défilé—a grand parade—winds through the streets of Montmartre, featuring floats, costumed performers, music, and local associations. The parade is often described as the festival's visual highlight, showcasing the neighborhood's artistic and community spirit.
Planning your visit: tickets, reservations, and free events
General admission to the festival is free—you can wander the Parcours du Goût, enjoy the parade, and attend many concerts without a ticket. However, certain experiences, such as guided vineyard visits, the nocturnal race, and select concerts in the town hall, require advance reservations.
Reservations for popular events often open a few weeks before the festival, and some may have limited capacity. To avoid missing out, review the program ahead of time and book what interests you. For a deeper dive into costs and booking specifics, see our complete guide to Fête des Vendanges Montmartre tickets prices.
Getting there and where to stay
Montmartre is well connected by public transport. The nearest airport is Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG), about 45 minutes to an hour by RER and metro or taxi. From the city center, metro lines 2 and 12 serve the area, with stations like Anvers, Pigalle, and Abbesses within walking distance of festival sites.
For accommodation, staying near the 18th arrondissement keeps you close to the action, but hotels in central Paris are also convenient given the metro connections. If you're looking for a base that balances charm and accessibility, consider boutique hotels in Montmartre or well-connected neighborhoods like Pigalle or the 9th arrondissement.
If you're interested in exploring other festivals in France throughout the year, our guide to festivals in France offers a broader look at seasonal celebrations you might pair with a trip to Paris.
Beyond the festival: exploring Montmartre
While the festival is a highlight, Montmartre offers year-round attractions. The Sacré-Cœur Basilica provides panoramic views of Paris, and the Place du Tertre buzzes with portrait artists and cafés. Wine lovers might also enjoy a self-guided stroll past historic winemaking sites, though many are now private.
For a longer cultural itinerary, consider pairing your visit with other Parisian events. For example, the Fête de la Sainte-Catherine Paris hat tradition celebrates single women with a hat-making ritual in late November, offering a distinct glimpse into local customs.
If you're flexible with timing, checking the city's music scene might reveal overlapping jazz festivals or other performances that could enrich your stay.
Festival etiquette and sustainable practices
Like many large events, the festival draws huge crowds—some estimates suggest hundreds of thousands of visitors over its duration, though official figures are not always published. Expect crowded conditions, and be prepared to queue for tastings and restrooms.
To minimize your footprint, carry a reusable water bottle and use public transit instead of taxis. Recycling bins are usually available, and vendors are encouraged to reduce waste. Respect the vineyard sites by staying on designated paths and never attempting to pick grapes yourself.
Plan Your Visit
The Fête des Vendanges de Montmartre is more than a wine festival—it's a celebration of Parisian heritage, arts, and community spirit. Whether you're sipping a rare glass of Clos Montmartre, watching the parade, or just soaking up the atmosphere in a village square, it's an unforgettable fall experience.
To make the most of your trip, check the official festival program for dates and reservations, and keep an eye on the weather—October in Paris can be cool and rainy. With thoughtful planning, you'll be well positioned to enjoy one of the city's most lively and unique annual events.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Fête des Vendanges de Montmartre held?
The festival takes place annually in October, typically around the second weekend. Exact dates change each year and are confirmed by the organizers on their official website.
Where does the Fête des Vendanges de Montmartre take place?
The festival is held in Montmartre, a hilly district in Paris's 18th arrondissement. Key venues include the Clos Montmartre vineyard, the Parcours du Goût around Sacré-Cœur, and various squares and streets.
How much does it cost to attend?
General entry is free, but certain events like vineyard visits or concerts may require tickets or reservations. Check the official program for details on costs and booking.
What are the main events?
Highlights include guided vineyard tours, the Parcours du Goût food and wine market, the Ban des Vendanges ceremony, the Grand Défilé parade, live concerts, and the playful 'Cérémonie des non-demandes en mariage.'
