A YEAR IN LIMOUX! Jan - Easter CARNIVAL!
Limoux Carnival has a long tradition.  It is thought to have started at least 400 years ago and is taken very seriously by the people of the town, masked players and spectators alike.  It is the longest carnival in the world taking place on ten consecutive Saturdays and Sundays from January to Easter and culminating in a ceremonial bonfire.   The language of the carnival is the native Occitan.  About 20 groups, "les bandes", take it in turns to perform their ritual dance at 11am, 4.30pm and 10pm in the main square – it’s very atmospheric with tall timber framed buildings and stone arcades on all sides.  The constitution of les bandes is slightly mysterious, members may be part of a town guild, a local business or maybe just live in a particular part of Limoux.  It’s a highly eccentric local event and great fun to attend.  It’s origins are thought to have something to do with local millers being given a day off and running through the streets throwing flour over everyone accompanied by local musicians – the flour has now been replaced by confetti… Apparently there is a carnival king, "Sa Majesté Carnaval", a dummy stuffed with straw, who oversees events.  After ten weeks of festivities, the Carnival king is brought to trial as the scapegoat for 'sins' committed during carnival and is finally burnt at the stake in a huge fire in the square and vigorously mourned by all les bandes attending. March or April Toques et Clochers - arranged by Cave du Sieur D'Arques A wine festival held to raise money for the renovation of church bells and bell towers in local villages.  There are plenty of wines available to taste, different local food specialties to enjoy and music, clowns and juggling entertainment. Vigne et Terroir Fete - a weekend in middle to end of August Fete du vin primeur - celebration of the vine harvest held in mid October Below is the Jun-Oct Limoux events programme from 2007