On November 16, 2025, the Paris-Vincene racecourse will open its season with a large-scale local festival combining gastronomy, music and trot racing. The program includes free events for the whole family, tastings of local specialties and the first competition of the Sulki World Championships.
Paris-Vincennes Gears Up for Grand Season Opener: A Festival of Food, Music, and Thrilling Trot Racing
Get ready, sports fans! On Sunday, November 16, 2025, the iconic Paris-Vincennes racecourse is set to ignite its winter season with a spectacular, large-scale local festival.This isn’t just any race day; it’s a full-blown celebration of French culture, featuring a mouthwatering array of gastronomy, electrifying music, and, of course, the thunderous hooves of trot racing. And the best part? Much of the day’s festivities are absolutely free, making it a perfect outing for the entire family.
Dubbed ‘Bodega XXL’,this event promises an immersive experience that blends the high-octane world of horse racing with a convivial,delicious atmosphere. Imagine the vibrant energy of a Southwestern French “bodega” transported to the racetrack, offering a comfortable and central hub to savor the rich tapestry of French regional specialties. It’s a unique chance to dive headfirst into the heart of French culinary traditions, all while surrounded by the thrill of the races.
Adding to the excitement, this festival marks a meaningful milestone for harness racing enthusiasts: the first qualifying round of the World Sulky Championships. The ‘Prix de Bretagne – American Race Q#1’ is poised to be a pivotal moment, drawing in fans eager to witness the elite of trot racing compete.For those wanting an unparalleled perspective, the racecourse is offering unique access. You can hop on track buses to experience the race day action from the heart of the action, or gain exclusive behind-the-scenes access to the stables and witness the meticulous preparation of these majestic equine athletes.
This season-opening extravaganza is inspired by the grand banquet traditions of France, with the ‘Bodega XXL’ concept drawing heavily from the convivial spirit of the Southwestern ‘bodega’.Paris-Vincennes is transforming into a true French public festival, aiming to bring unparalleled emotion to the racetrack. For the dedicated gourmands among us,the ‘Village of Gourmet’ is a must-visit. This culinary village will showcase the distinct flavors of eight symbolic French regions, including Alsace, Brittany, Aveyron, Auvergne, Nord, Basque Contry, Savoie, and the Center region. Prepare your taste buds as passionate producers and artisans present their signature dishes, offering a true taste of France.
The culinary journey promises an amazing variety, featuring delights such as fresh seafood, savory algo sausages, hearty raclette, crispy tarte flambé, succulent duck breast, and so much more! Complementing the gastronomic feast, the air will be alive with the sounds of folk and celtic music groups. Adding to the musical ambiance, host and musician Mathieu Bost will lead a lineup of talented local bands performing a captivating mix of French hits spanning from the 1960s to the present day. The entertainment extends beyond the main stage with trackside performances, and once the races conclude, the party continues with a DJ set and the much-anticipated After-Courses festivities. This is a festival that truly captures the spirit of a vibrant town square, right on the racetrack!
And let’s not forget the younger generation! A complete array of free family-friendly activities, all with a horse racing theme, has been curated to ensure a day of non-stop fun for the kids.From exhilarating pony rides and a charming horse carousel to meet-and-greets with Trotty, the beloved racetrack mascot, and an immersive virtual reality experience that puts you right in the driver’s seat of a thrilling race, there’s enough entertainment to keep everyone engaged and delighted throughout the day!
A friendly reminder for all attendees: admission to this spectacular event is free. However, to secure your spot and ensure a smooth entry, be sure to download your invitation from the racecourse website prior to your visit. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable fusion of sport, culture, and community!
