Les Fêtes de Bayonne: King Léon and his ham

Every summer, the city of Bayonne is ablaze with joy, traditions and flavors during one of the South-West’s most emblematic festive events: the Fêtes de Bayonne. More than just a festive event, it’s a real immersion in Basque culture, an ode to conviviality, customs and… gastronomy. At Relais Gourmet, we couldn’t pass up this celebration where Bayonne Ham, the jewel in the crown of local gastronomy, takes pride of place. He even does it at King Leon’s table.

From the height of his flamboyant attire, King Léon embodies the festive spirit. Every year, he opens the festivities surrounded by his majestic court in the famous royal parade. This moment of popular jubilation allows young and old to marvel at Bayonne’s emblematic giants. Discover the secrets of this incredible procession on the official Fêtes de Bayonne website. Take a behind-the-scenes look at this tradition on video with Sud Ouest.

But what would the Bayonne Fêtes be without their gourmet specialities? Bayonne Ham, an exceptional product born of ancestral know-how, takes pride of place on every table. Salted, matured and hand-cut, it embodies the soul of the Basque terroir. Relais Gourmet shares this pride by offering you products from the South-West of France all year round. These products are rigorously selected for their authenticity and quality.

If you’d like to find out more about the importance of these festivities to the region’s culinary identity, read our dedicated article: Relais Gourmet – Fêtes de Bayonne.

In summer and all year round, this tradition can be savored. And at Relais Gourmet, it’s shared with passion.