The costume festival

The Costume Festival is a tradition that has become an art form. This festival can be said to have originated in 1903, at the initiative of Frédéric Mistral (Provençal poet, 1830–1914), when he created the Festo Vierginenco. All young girls were invited to a ribbon-and-costume ceremony, symbolizing their passage into adulthood. (Until the age of 15, they may wear only the so-called “Mireille” costume.) Concerned about the future of the Arlésienne costume, Mistral wanted to formalize the tradition and ensure that wearing the “lady’s” costume would be not only a symbol but also an honor and a special occasion. It was a stroke of genius! In 1903, 18 young women answered this call. By 1904, there were 350 of them, and the festival took root at the Théâtre Antique. Since then, several hundred young women have continued to parade through Arles and gather for a dazzling and rare finale at the Théâtre Antique. The young women who received their costumes and ribbons during the last “Festo Vierginenco” will also be presented at the Théâtre Antique. Every three years, on this day, the new Queen is crowned before the people of Provence; she delivers a speech in response to that of the outgoing Queen. Along with the Pegoulado, this is one of the most important moments in Provençal culture. On the program: 4:00 p.m. – Musical procession from Place de la République to the Théâtre Antique. Parade route: Place de la République – Rue de la République – Rue Wilson – Boulevard des Lices. 5:00 p.m. – Costume Festival at the Théâtre Antique. Presentation and performance by traditional groups.