Brittany's La Baule and Bignan Hold Traditional Pardon Festivals

The Catholic parish of La Baule on the Atlantic coast will celebrate its annual Pardon on Sunday 23 August at 10:30 a.m. in the Parc des Dryades. The mass, led by priests Christophe de Cacqueray and Benoît Laronze, marks the 75th edition of the event and will be presided over by the bishop of Laval. Organisers expect around 2,000 participants, reflecting a resurgence of local religious interest.

In the Morbihan town of Bignan, the association Amis des Fontaines is preparing the Fontaines Pardon for Sunday 9 August. The day will begin with the blessing of the historic fountains, a procession, and a mass celebrated by Father Luc, followed by the traditional horse‑blessing, a palet‑playing contest, communal meals and a fest‑noz. About 80 volunteers are involved in the festivities, which have been held for 31 years and draw hundreds of visitors each year.