Gérardmer in bloom: Daffodil Festival

Gérardmer usually turns yellow every two years in the spring to celebrate the Daffodil Festival. This tradition, which began in 1935, attracts thousands of visitors who come to admire the floral floats, take part in the festivities and celebrate the arrival of fine weather in a convivial atmosphere.

Published on June 4, 2025

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The Daffodil Festival in Gérardmer: a tradition steeped in history

Every spring, nature slowly wakes up in the Vosges... And around Gérardmer, a magical spectacle takes place: the meadows are covered with thousands of daffodils. A sea of yellow flowers heralds the arrival of fine weather. This unique moment is celebrated every two years during the Daffodil Festival, a major popular and joyous event not to be missed.

🌷 A natural setting worthy of a postcard

In Gérardmer, also known as the Pearl of the Vosges, daffodils grow in huge quantities within a radius of around ten kilometres. You can't see that anywhere else! This golden carpet, visible even from the air, transforms the landscape. It's a real feast for the eyes and a strong sign that spring has arrived.

🎉 A tradition that has brought people together since 1935

It all began in 1935, when a few motorcyclists had the idea of decorating their bikes with daffodils. The following year, they organised a real celebration. Since then, every two years, the whole town has been transformed to welcome this wonderful tradition.

The Daffodil Festival is all about floral floats, brass bands, costumes, laughter, thousands of flowers... and lots of good humour. Every year, tens of thousands of visitors come to share the moment.

🌸 The corso fleuri, a highlight of the festival

The most eagerly awaited part of the festival is the parade of floral floats through the streets of Gérardmer. Each float is decorated by hand with fresh daffodils: around 500,000 flowers in all! It takes several days' work, especially on the famous "night of the stitching", when the locals attach the flowers one by one. It's a unique, friendly atmosphere, full of mutual support.

Char Fête des Jonquilles at Gerardmer in the Vosges

👫 A celebration driven by residents

The Daffodil Festival is also a great story of solidarity. Young and old, families, associations, friends: everyone takes part! Each float is the fruit of a collective effort. And that's what makes the festival so endearing.

🧭 Practical information

📅 Every two years, in April
📍 In Gérardmer, in the Vosges
🚗 Remember to come early: traffic is modified and shuttles are offered
🎟️ There is a charge for the parade (tickets online or on site)
🌼 Entertainment will be provided throughout the day

🛏️ Where to sleep during the party?

The Daffodil Festival attracts a lot of people, so it's best to book your accommodation in advance. Whether you're coming as a couple, with your family or with friends, the Clévacances label offers you comfortable, quality-controlled accommodation: gites, flats, bed and breakfasts or unusual accommodation.

🔑 With Clévacances, you're in safe hands to enjoy this beautiful spring festival!

Book your Clévacances accommodation