Saint Martial's Dayat Saint-Léonard de Noblat the 1st weekend in July

Saint Martial’s Day in Saint-Léonard de Noblat

Are you spending your summer vacations in Saint-Léonard de Noblat? There’s an original and enjoyable summer event you won’t want to miss in this small town in the Limousin between Limoges and Lake Vassivière! Head for the Old Bridge district on the banks of the Vienne River, where horses and steeds gather for an equestrian joust whose origins date back to the Middle Ages! As if out of time, you’ll witness the election of the village king by the light of brandons… And don’t forget to feast at the local farmers’ market, dance the night away and admire the fireworks by the water’s edge… Tempted? Then come to Haute-Vienne in early July for Saint-Martial!

“Vivo lo St Marsaut!”

In early July, the peaceful Pont de Noblat district comes alive in Saint-Léonard de Noblat for three days of festivities dedicated to Saint Martial! On the first evening, at dusk, a ceremony takes place on the old stone bridge: the election and crowning of the king(or queen!) 👑

Accompanied by his subjects, the new king completes the brandon-lit ascent of the Chêne de Clovis hill overlooking the small medieval town. Oh hisse, oh hisse, the slope is steep, but you’ll be rewarded with a nice panorama! 🌳

DID YOU KNOW?
Located at the foot of the hill, the little chapel dedicated to Saint Martial is only open on Saint Martial’s Day. Take the opportunity to visit this charming little church!

La Course à la Bague

A distant memory of the equestrian tournaments of the Middle Ages, the famous “ring race” is the highlight of the Saint Martial festival, putting riders ‘ skills to the ultimate test! 🐎

At full gallop, the skilful steeds compete in a joust to seize the king’s ring with a spear. Will you be there to cheer them on, along with the enthusiastic crowd singing the Saint Martial song? And who will succeed in capturing the precious ring? 💍

Three days of festivities

Saint Martial is also 3 days of festivities at Saint-Léonard de Noblat for all tastes and for young and old alike:

Local producers’ market
Concert
Show
Festive meal
Fireworks at the water’s edge
Children’s entertainment
Hiking
Popular ball
Fishing competition
Etc.

Practical info

Free admission

Access to the Saint Martial Festival is free for all! You’ll only need to take out your wallet for purchases at the stands and for the meal (reservation required!).

Rendezvous on the banks of the Vienne

July 5 to 7, from Friday evening to Sunday evening, in the Pont de Noblat district of Saint-Léonard de Noblat.

Entertainment for all

Young and old alike will be delighted by the entertainment for all ages at this festival, which dates back to the Middle Ages!