The French stag bellowing championship will be in the spotlight for the first time during the rural festival which will open its doors in Saint-Laurent. “The origin of bellowing is to call deer in the forest. But there, around twenty people, coming from all over France, will be judged by imitating different cries”specifies to the Ardennes Jean-Mathieu Gonnet, the director of the Departmental Federation of Ardennes Hunters (FDC 08).
In fact, the stag bellows are pushed over a short period, from September to October. This call allows males to attract females. Until this period was brought forward to June for the pleasure of the brawlers.
3000 people expected
Obviously, the event will not only feature the championship but will highlight the artisanal and rural world, brought together, to result in the creation of a friendly, festive and family celebration. The latter will welcome hunting fans or simply the curious.
Two years ago, more than 3,000 people discovered it. Saturday and Sunday, as many people are expected, without age limit, to spend a weekend of sharing and discovery.
“Around twenty people, from all over France, will be judged by imitating different cries”
« To prepare for the event, we can talk about a year’s work, or 25 hours per week”, explains Lucie Le May, the events apprentice responsible for organizing FDC 08. With the participation of associations, producers, partners and local commercial exhibitors, the word “help” was essential for them to put highlight their ideas in the form of a program. And in terms of activities spread over 11 hectares, a wide choice will be offered such as archery, an inflatable castle or even crossbow shooting for the little ones.
The highlights of these two days of celebration:
- Ardennes draft horse competition
- Concerts by Ward Trad Jam and Les Bottles
- Midsummer bonfire
- Aperitif ball with “Les Shows Boulettes”
Doors open at 10 a.m.; 2-day entry: €5 for those over 16; Free Saturday from 6 p.m. (stands close and concerts start); Catering and refreshment bar on site (Saveurs d’Ardennes, Ardwen, Cuvée d’Arthur); Reservation possible in advance on the site.
