Bazas (33 Gironde, Nouvelle Aquitaine) celebrates the local tradition of fatted oxen (Fete des Boeufs Gras) on 27 February 2025 (see Gironde Tourisme)
For more than 700 years, every Thursday preceding Mardi Gras, this popular festival brings together the most beautiful specimens of the Bazadaise breed (between 800 kg and one ton). Adorned with ribbons and flowery crowns, the fat oxen parade to the sound of fifes and drums in the streets of the city, before being judged by a jury of experts on the Place de la Cathédrale.
The Fête des Bœufs Gras is also an opportunity to discover the traditions of South-Gironde and its gastronomy. You will be able to share a good meal during the festival. Around twenty restaurants nearby will offer Bazadaise breed. A “takeaway” offer will also be available.
Bazas was the location where Rick Stein discovered the difference between beef from steers/oxen rather than cows during his last series – Rick Stein’s French Odyssey
Every year they celebrate this high quality marbled beef which is best expressed as an “Entrecote” literally “between the sides” – a boneless steak of beef cut from the sirloin best cooked quickly – either grilled or fried.
Inevitably the French take great and understandable pride in their specialist local produce – so there will be a festival, a procession, music and a competition for the biggest and best beast.
Should you happen to be in the area (between Bordeaux and Agen) then experience Bazas beef at is best at Le Bistrot St Jean in the Place de la Cathedrale.
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