The fairgrounds are back on track and have no intention of turning back. To protest against the “unilateral decision of the mayor” to organize the Bayonne Festivals from July 16 to 20, 2025, they decided to block the city twice. In a declaration of demonstration addressed to the sub-prefect, Fabrice Rosay, the Fédération des Forains de France announces a first demonstration on Tuesday, October 8, “on the outskirts and the city center”, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. According to the letter, all fairgrounds in the Nouvelle Aquitaine region will participate in this operation, with cars and truckswhich should cause significant disruptions throughout the Bayonne metropolitan area.
The fairgrounds protest against the holding of the Bayonne Festivals at the same time as those “from Mont-de-Marsan, Saint-Palais and many others. This decision taken is inconceivable for the entire fairground profession both in substance and in form”writes the Federation in its declaration. A second action is planned for Saturday October 19, “around the Jean-Dauger stadium from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.”, day of the Top 14 match between Aviron Bayonnais and Racing 92 (2:30 p.m.). These two days, the demonstrators meet around the Casquets roundabout, on the right bank of Bayonne, near the red bridge, the starting and finishing point.
Postponing the Bayonne Festivals after those of Mont-de-Marsan
“The only thing that will make us stop will be for the Mayor to postpone the Bayonne Festivals after those of Mont-de-Marsan”announces Thomas Bruch, treasurer and member of the national office of the Fairground Federation, who participates in both events every year. According to him, the months of July and August represent 50% of its turnover and the two festivals, with that of Dax, are the main highlights. It is therefore inconceivable for him, as for his colleagues, to give up one of them.
Furthermore, the fairgrounds threaten to call into question the system adopted during the 2024 Bayonne Festival. After tough negotiations, the municipality managed to reach an agreement so that the rides would free the Saint-Esprit bridge, the Place du Réduit and the start of the Allée Boufflers, to be installed behind the town hall.
