In a class about ranching around the world my interest in France's version of bull fighting was piqued.
Anyone know if such activities happen in early May when we can be in the area of Arles?
Any current web sites and info are most appreciated.. Thanks in advance for any help.
I often find these little leads take quite a bit of searching to flush out but sometimes turn out to be highlights. So I am hopeful.
We will be travelling by public transport, have 4 days and would love to see bull fights (humane) , horse shows and cultural info related to the Guardians and the area..
Posted by
London, United Kingdom
4684 posts
The most important thing to know is vocabulary in French. Camargue-style non-lethal bullfighting where they try to remove rosettes from the bull's horns is "course camarguaise". Spanish-style bullfighting where they kill the bull (which is also done in southern France) is "tauromachie".
Posted by
Rick Steves' Europe
16895 posts
The "bull games" in Arles tend to run July-August and the deadly bullfights during Easter and September festivals. See also http://www.arenes-arles.com/. Each town's Tourist Information Office is another good source.
Posted by
189 posts
It's been a while but we were in Provence in 2007 and wanted to go to the "Bull Games". I called the Arles TI and after several calls and much confusion we confirmed what I thought I had found on line that there were Bull Games that day, June 27 but they were not in Arles. They were in Jonquieres-St Vincent. So make sure you call to confirm where they are being held.
The games were to start at 4, 5 or 6 depending on who we talked to. The warm ups with amateurs started at 5:00 and the main event at 6:00. It was a small and unimpressive stadium, a very local place with almost all the attendees being locals. A brief description - several guys with hooks that they used to tried to snag the ribbon between the bull's horns. Several other guys without hooks tried to distract the bulls. Many times the men would be jumping over the fence onto a ledge close to our seats. A good time was had by all. There was an intermission during which we went outside and got some snacks and drinks. One of the snacks was the Provence equivalent of our State Fair fried dough. An ambulance was on had to treat the men if they were injured. No bulls were hurt but they certainly were mad!
I highly recommend attending a bull game especially a small local one.