Saint-Vincent festivities in Champagne

Every year, around 22 January, the confrères of the Champagne villages gather to thank Saint-Vincent for the past harvest and to place the next one under his protection.

The head of the procession carries the baton of Saint-Vincent, followed by the banner or statue of the patron saint of winegrowers. The parade participants are dressed in traditional costumes: bagnolets for the ladies and girls, blue blouses, white aprons and cellarmen caps for the men and boys.

Stretchers adorned with foliage and flowers, wine-making tools, a barrel of new wine and a pyramid of brioches complete the picture.

To mark the occasion, a mass is held in the village church, where the procession arrives.

At the end of these solemnities, a banquet is held at which the famous sparkling wine is honoured.