The origins of Saint-Pons in Fréjus
This tribute to Saint-Pons, patron saint of peasants and farmers, dates back to the 16th century. It was celebrated to have good weather for transhumance and the upcoming harvests.
At the time, this festival was an opportunity, with the arrival of Spring, to get out your best clothes, with the most beautiful hat for the ladies, to leave in procession to have lunch in the open air, in the shade of the pines.
Today, the same spirit of conviviality and sharing continues: blessing, procession, fair and folk dances by the maintenance group LOU CEPOUN FRÉJUREN are on the program. And we can say that these prayers are heard since Fréjus, bathed in the sunshine of Provence, boasts some 300 days of sunshine per year.
Is there an entrance fee?
The Saint-Pons festival is a free event. Only the meal is chargeable and upon reservation (see the program)
How to park?
A parking lot is located near the parade starting point.
But who was Saint-Pons?
Saint Pons (or Saint Pontius) is a Christian saint who lived in the 3rd century. According to tradition, he was a Roman citizen who converted to Christianity, which was illegal at the time in the Roman Empire. Saint Pons is said to have been a fervent defender of the Christian faith, preaching and helping to convert many people.
He is particularly venerated in the south of France, notably in Fréjus, where he is considered the patron saint of the city. Saint Pons is said to have been martyred for his faith under the Roman Emperor Valerian around the year 257. After being arrested for his Christian activities, he is said to have been tortured and beheaded in Cimiez, near Nice.
His cult spread throughout the region, and several churches and chapels are dedicated to him. In Fréjus, the feast of Saint Pons is a way of commemorating and honoring this saint, who is associated with the protection of the city and its prosperity.
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