A Vosges institution since 1935, the Gérardmer Fête des Jonquilles is held every two years. For weeks, hundreds of volunteers pick and pin millions of daffodils onto the parade’s floats.
In 2026, no big corso: Gérardmer is hosting the 3rd edition of Jonquilles en Fête on 17, 18 and 19 April 2026, a more intimate version (street animation, decorated windows, exhibitions). The next traditional parade is planned for 2028, shifted to avoid clashing with the 2027 presidential election.
The big parade
On Sunday, around twenty flowered floats roll through the streets of Gérardmer, surrounded by fanfares, folklore groups and invited delegations. Each float carries about 50,000 to 100,000 daffodils, hand-picked in the Vosges meadows.
A collective effort
Each neighbourhood or association builds its float: design, wood and mesh structure, sorting flowers, final pinning the night before the parade. A human adventure involving thousands of volunteers over a month.
The weekend
- Friday night: opening, fireworks on the lake
- Saturday: activities, folk groups, spring market
- Sunday afternoon: big parade
Practical info
- Car parks saturated, use the shuttles from outside
- Get on the route early for a good view
- Paid seating stands with guaranteed places
- Book restaurants very far in advance
Combine with a stay
Late April, La Bresse already offers the first hikes of the year. Enjoy the daffodil weekend, add a morning at Lac des Corbeaux or the Hohneck, and sleep in La Bresse (15 min from Gérardmer) to avoid the bustle. See our chalets.
Frequently asked questions
How often is the Fête des Jonquilles held?
The big Fête des Jonquilles (flowered float parade) is held every two years. Between editions, Jonquilles en Fête offers a more intimate version: activities and flowered shop windows. In 2026: Jonquilles en Fête on 17, 18 and 19 April. Next big Fête in 2028.
Where to find the official programme?
On fete-des-jonquilles-gerardmer-officiel.fr or mairie-gerardmer.fr.
Is parking easy on the day of the parade?
No, car parks saturate early. Shuttles from outside Gérardmer are strongly recommended, or stay in La Bresse (15 min) and come in by shuttle.
Can you pick the daffodils yourself in the meadows?
Picking is regulated and limited to local tradition. The volunteers pick for the floats. Respect gates and private properties.