Santons in Provence: a family tradition
If you've been browsing our site, you may have come across the santon parade held every year in La Cadière d'Azur. It's an opportunity for us to talk about these figurines that come to life for a day. In Signes, these clay figures typical of our Provencal region are the subject of a market, a fair - in other words, a beautiful fair.
The event is brought to you by volunteers from the association La Farandole Signoise. This organization is keen to share this age-old tradition with everyone, locals and holidaymakers, young and old, the curious and craft enthusiasts alike. A way to start dreaming before the festive season.
Good to know: if you'd like to learn more about the wonderful craft of santon making, don't hesitate to take a trip to Marcel Pagnol's homeland, Aubagne. The santon capital of the world, several workshops open their doors to you throughout the year.
The Santon Fair in Signes
Ainsi, tous les ans, les santonniers venus de toute la région se donnent rendez-vous au cœur de la destination Provence Sud Sainte Baume, pour plusieurs jours de manifestation. Au programme de cet évènement traditionnel : achat de santons, rencontres avec les artisans locaux et vente de produits du terroir signois.
Whether you're looking for the centerpiece of your nativity scene, or for a typical, original souvenir made in the workshops of Provencal designers, this fair will be your little heaven on earth. A great idea for a family activity to start preparing your home for the Christmas festivities that are just around the corner...
Practical information
- In short: discover a local art form and start experiencing the magic of the festive season in Signes!
- Dates : en octobre.
- Location: in the village of Signes.
- Program: purchase of santons, meetings with artisans and sale of local delicacies.
- Directions: This village lies in the heart of the Sainte-Baume, near Riboux and Le Beausset. Click here for Google Maps location.
- Contact: the town's multimedia library (tourist information point), 04 94 98 87 80 or mediatheque@signes.fr.
