Nestled in the hills of Montmartre, within the shadow of the area’s gorgeous Sacré-Coeur cathedral, lies the Clos Montmartre vineyard—a tiny relic of the once abundant vineyards that flourished all over this northern Parisian neighborhood.
Clos Montmartre claims only 16,000 square feet of land for its grapes, and as a walled vineyard, most tourists can walk right by the secret garden that continues the centuries-old tradition of creating wine on this beautiful hill in Paris without even realizing it. But once a year, in early October, all of Montmartre celebrates the Fête des Vendanges de Montmartre—the Grape Harvest Festival.
The festival spans from October 5-9 this year, and it promises a funny, wild and uniquely French experience for any Parisian traveler. Each year, a godmother and godfather of the festival are chosen from among France’s A-list celebrities. These honorary godparents lead the festivities—and as a thank you, the local restaurants, bars and cafes offer the godparents’ favorite dishes on their menus.
Over 120 exhibitors set up tents, and the area takes on a medieval feel. Going from tent-to-tent, you can taste wines from all over France and elsewhere in Europe, watch experts demonstrate and teach various cooking techniques, and eat your fill of delectable regional foods and delicacies.
But of course, the French also provide entertainment spectacles along with world-class food. By day, you will see parades of musicians, dancers, costumed politicians, giant pâpier-maché puppets and masked harlequins. By night, you can attend concerts and fireworks exhibitions. And it’s possible to be more than a spectator! Have your children join in on the enormous Chorale des Enfants (Children’s Chorus). Or renew your commitment to your lover by taking part in the Cérémony des Non-Demandés en Mariage (Ceremony of Non-Marriage Proposals), where you do NOT get married to your partner in a tongue-in-cheek ritual presided over by the mayor of Montmartre.
You can, of course, purchase a bottle of Clos Montmartre’s wine at the Fête. The bottles sell for €45 each, which goes to charity. Though Clos Montmartre’s wine is not considered one of the greatest bottles in France, the souvenir and the experience are certainly worth it.
New York Habitat wants you to have the full Festival experience this fall. Come have fun in Paris and party as only the French do. Not sure where to stay for the Fête? Check out these vacation rentals in Montmartre to start:
This 1 Bedroom Vacation Rental – Montmartre – Sacre Coeur – Paris (PA-2821) offers unparalleled views of Montmartre, light-filled rooms, and even a piano, if you feel compelled to continue the singing and revelry after your day at the Fête.
The color and light of Montmartre’s harvest festival are recreated in this gorgeous 2 Bedroom Vacation Rental – Montmartre – Sacre Coeur – Paris (PA-2001). Relax on the plant-filled terrace, or get ready for a day of French festivities in the vibrant rooms that feature built-in bookcases and hardwood floors.
Traveling with 7 of your closest friends? You’ll be able to continue the festivities in this 4 Bedroom Triplex Townhouse Vacation Rental – Montmartre – Sacre Coeur – Paris (PA-2033). This lavish townhome offers an enormous private deck, decadent bathrooms, and chic furnishings and artwork throughout. Spoil yourself here!
What is your favorite Parisian festival?
Leave a Reply