Votive Festivals

A packed programme full of surprises will be on offer in the old harbour of La Ciotat to mark the traditional votive festivals. SATURDAY 15 AUGUST From 9.00 am to 5.00 pm: Free boat trips with the Calfats de l’Escalet, departing from in front of the church. 9.30 am – Church forecourt – Dance by the Escolo de la Ribo 10 am to 11 am – Boat parade along the beaches by the Calfats de l’Escalet 11.15 am – Old Harbour, Procession from the church to the SNSM lifeboat and blessing of the boats at sea From 4.00 pm to 5.00 pm – Place de l’Escalet: entertainment and rescue demonstrations by the SNSM 5.00 pm – Place de l’Escalet: ‘Les Barquettes en folies’ – a competition for decorated barquettes organised by the Calfats de l’Escalet. Free 7.00 pm – Place de l’Escalet, SNSM sardine feast. Menu: Plate of grilled sardines and tartlet Admission: €15 per person and €10 per child under 12 SUNDAY 16 AUGUST 7.30 pm – Welcome for the public at Place Emile Zola 8.00 pm - Notre Dame Church – Performance: ‘Glory to You, Saint Roch, Protector of La Ciotat since 1720’ Organised by the La Ciotat Ceyreste parish, with artistic support from the association ‘La Ciotat il était une fois’, the performance recounts the story of Saint Roch, to whom the people of La Ciotat prayed during the plague epidemic of 1720. A production combining storytelling, music and actors in period costume to bring to life a defining moment in local history. Original production: ‘La Ciotat, il était une fois’ – Written and directed by Mireille Benedetti 9.30 pm – Place de l’Escalet Almeras Music Live Grand Orchestra! Free admission. The Almeras Music Live Orchestra, conducted by Christophe Alméras, presents a spectacular show combining music, singing, dance and visual effects. A festive revue featuring 15 performers on stage. 10.00 pm – FIREWORKS – Set off from the sea