Forains Protest in Bayonne Over Clashing Festival Dates

The decision to hold Bayonne's festival simultaneously with Mont-de-Marsan's has sparked economic concerns and demonstrations.

Bayonne's mayor, Jean-René Etchegaray, announced that the city's festival will coincide with Mont-de-Marsan's in July 2025.
Forains argue that the overlapping dates will severely impact their earnings, as they cannot attend both festivals.
Protesters, including a convoy of forain trucks, blocked Bayonne in a loud demonstration against the date change.
The mayor defends the decision as a measure to manage crowd sizes and enhance safety, citing past incidents during the festival.
Further protests are planned for October 19, coinciding with a major rugby match in Bayonne.