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Carpentras Santon Makers Fair
Carpentras
Traditional Provençal santon craftsmanship and interactive workshops.
About
Immerse yourself in the charm of Provençal tradition at the Santon Makers Fair in Carpentras. This vibrant event showcases the artistry of about ten santonniers, presenting both time-honored techniques and contemporary interpretations of the beloved nativity figurines. Discover unique handcrafted santons, engage in interactive workshops, and enjoy guided tours that bring the local culture to life.
Our Take
Family Friendly
Best For
Art enthusiasts, families, cultural explorers
Vibe
Artistic, traditional, festive
Energy Level
Low to medium
Budget
Low To Medium
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Low
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.
Location
Event Details
Pricing
Free for some activities, paid for others (e.g., guided tour €8/adult, modeling workshop €6/person).
Duration
4 days
Ages
All ages, Children 6-12 years (for workshop)
Schedule
Open Friday, Monday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Open Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Featured Performers
- Santons Marguerat (Marguerat Béatrice)
- Santons Atelier Contat (Françoise Contat)
- Santons Raccasi (Raccasi Corinne)
- Les santons bleus (Dornier Véronique)
- L'atelier de Vicken (Markoyan Laurent)
- Les santons du Cavare (Gérard Amat)
- Santon Di landro (Didier Coulomb)
- Santons Truffier-Douzon
Organizer
Office de Tourisme de Carpentras
Practical Information
Accessibility
https://www.ventouxprovence.fr/accessibilite.html
Pet Policy
No pets allowed (service animals welcome)
Food & Drink
Special tasting event 'Pause Comtadine' with wine pairings available.
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Arrive early on Saturday or Sunday to fully enjoy the extended hours and avoid the busiest times, especially if you plan to attend the popular 'Paint Your Santon' workshop.
- Take advantage of the guided tours to gain deeper insights into Carpentras' history and the significance of santons in Provençal culture.
- Consider booking the 'Je fabrique mon santon' workshop in advance, as spots are limited and it's a fantastic hands-on experience for all ages.
- Explore the 'Table des 13 desserts' exhibition to learn about this unique Provençal Christmas tradition and its culinary significance.
- Engage with the santonniers; they are passionate about their craft and can offer unique perspectives on their creations and the traditional techniques they employ.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are santons?
Santons are small, hand-painted terracotta figurines traditionally used to populate nativity scenes in Provence, France. They represent various characters from Provençal life, from shepherds and villagers to historical figures.
Are there activities for children?
Yes, there are specific activities for children, including a 'Paint Your Santon' workshop and storytelling sessions, making it a family-friendly event.
What is the 'Table des 13 desserts'?
The 'Table des 13 desserts' is a traditional Provençal Christmas custom featuring thirteen different sweet dishes served after the Christmas Eve midnight mass, symbolizing abundance and celebration.
Can I purchase santons at the fair?
Absolutely. The fair features about ten santonniers who will be showcasing and selling their handcrafted work, offering a wide variety of traditional and contemporary pieces.
Is there a cost to attend the fair?
Entry to the Santon Makers Fair itself is generally free. However, some specific activities like guided tours and workshops have associated fees.