Nîmes Feria: A Day of Tradition, Thrills & Music – Urgent Updates for September 20th
Nîmes, France is buzzing with energy as the annual Feria explodes into action! This Saturday, September 20th, promises a packed day of cultural immersion, from the raw power of bullfighting to the infectious rhythms of a free concert headlined by disco legends Boney M and Imagination. But be warned: significant road closures are in effect to ensure public safety. This breaking news update from archyde.com provides a complete schedule and essential travel information for anyone planning to experience the Feria.
A Full Day of Tauromachie & Camargue Culture
The heart of the Feria lies in its celebration of tauromachie (bullfighting) and the unique culture of the Camargue region. Starting at 10 a.m., a vibrant craft market will line the Charles-de-Gaulle esplanade, offering handmade products inspired by these traditions. For those seeking a deeper understanding, the French association of aficionados Practicos (AFAP) will host an educational space at the Bosquet des Jardins de la Fontaine from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m., demystifying the art and history of bullfighting. This isn’t just spectacle; it’s a deeply ingrained part of Southern French identity.
Bullfighting Highlights & Equestrian Spectacle
The afternoon will see intense action in the arenas. At 11 a.m., three promising novilleros – Javier Zulueta (Seville), Martin Morilla (Morón de la Frontera), and Victor (Nîmes) – will face off against bulls from the Gallon family. Later, at 3 p.m., a becerrada will take place in the Taurin space and Bosquet traditions Gardens of La Fontaine. For those preferring a different kind of horsemanship, the spectacle “La Passassioun” will be performed at the Jardins de la Fontaine at 2:30 p.m. and again at 4 p.m., showcasing the beauty and skill of equestrian artistry. Did you know that equestrian traditions in the Camargue are centuries old, deeply connected to the region’s ranching heritage?
Music, Dance & Family Fun
Beyond the arenas, the Feria offers a diverse range of entertainment. The Guinguette de la Feria at Antoine-Castelnau pole will be open from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m., providing a relaxed atmosphere for enjoying food and drinks. Traditional dance performances will take place at the Temple de Diane at 2 p.m., and a flash visit to the “gold and silk, the light costumes from the 13th to the present day” exhibition at the Taurine Cultures Museum is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. A particularly exciting event is the abrivado – a thrilling run of bulls – with the Martini manade on Avenue Jean-Jaurès at 6 p.m.
Concert Lineup: Boney M, Imagination & Local Talent
As the sun sets, the forecourt of the arenas will come alive with music. A free concert starting at 8:30 p.m. will feature rising stars Noah and Jusss (winners of a young talent scholarship), followed by the iconic disco group Boney M, celebrating their 50th anniversary with hits like “Rivers of Babylon” and “Daddy Cool.” Rounding out the evening is Imagination, bringing their classic sounds to the stage. This concert is a major draw, promising a night of unforgettable music and dancing.
Important Traffic Updates: Plan Your Route Accordingly
To ensure the safety of attendees, several sectors of the city center will be closed to traffic. The Victor Hugo / Arena and Liberation boulevards (Red Sector) will be closed from 10 a.m. to 6 a.m. on Sunday. Rue de la République (Yellow Sector) will be closed from 11 a.m. on Saturday. The Gaston Boissier and Bodégas sectors (Blue Sector) will be closed from 7 p.m. on Saturday to 6 a.m. on Sunday. We strongly advise planning your route in advance and utilizing public transportation where possible. Staying informed about these closures is crucial for a smooth Feria experience.
The Nîmes Feria is more than just an event; it’s a vibrant expression of regional identity and a celebration of tradition. With a diverse program catering to all ages and interests, this year’s Feria promises to be a memorable one. For continued updates and in-depth coverage of the Feria and other breaking news, stay tuned to archyde.com – your source for timely and relevant information. We’ll be following the events closely, providing SEO-optimized updates to keep you informed.
