The blessing of Calissons in Aix-en-Provence
Every year in early September, Aix celebrates a unique ritual: the blessing of Calissons. This tradition dates back to 1630, when the plague ravaged the city. A vow was made to the Virgin of Seds, protector of Aix, to save the inhabitants.
During the thanksgiving mass, almond paste sweets shaped like chalices were distributed… The people of Aix christened them Calissons!
Since then, these fragrant little diamond-shaped sweets have become emblematic of Aix-en-Provence, combining heritage, faith, and gourmet delights. And every year, they continue to be blessed in the heart of the city.
Come celebrate the Blessing of the Calissons 2025 in Aix-en-Provence!
Every year, the city of Aix-en-Provence honors its iconic delicacy: the calisson. But beyond simply tasting this treat, it is a true Provençal tradition that is reborn through the Blessing of the Calissons, an event now recognized as one of the most beautiful festivals in France. This symbolic ceremony, which began in 1630 during a terrible plague epidemic, commemorates the vow made by Consul Martelly, who promised an annual mass in thanksgiving to the Virgin of Seds. It was during one of these services that calissons were blessed for the first time, becoming a symbol of protection and conviviality. Even today, the call “Venès tóutei pèr lei calissoun” (“Come one, come all for calissons”) echoes through the streets of Aix, attracting thousands of curious visitors and food lovers.
A day of celebration: the program for the 2025 Blessing
On September 7, 2025, get ready for a festive day celebrating heritage, punctuated by traditional entertainment and culinary delights:
Starting at 10 a.m., the day begins with a folkloric welcome on the Place de l’Université, followed by a solemn mass at Saint-Sauveur Cathedral. At 11:30 a.m., a colorful parade will set off toward Cours Mirabeau, led by calisson makers, confectioners, and chocolatiers dressed in period costumes.
In the afternoon, starting at 2 p.m., you can enjoy Provençal entertainment, the blessing of the calissons at Saint-Jean-de-Malte Church at 3 p.m., and then the traditional distribution of 3,000 to 4,000 blessed calissons at 4:15 p.m. on Cours Mirabeau.
Tout au long de la journée, des artisans partageront leur savoir-faire, notamment autour de l’amande, avec des démonstrations uniques comme celle d’une ancienne machine à casser les amandes du XIXe siècle.
Toutes les animations sont gratuites et ouvertes à tous : une occasion parfaite pour petits et grands de découvrir l’âme provençale.
Find Brémond Fils at the heart of the festivities.
The Brémond Fils confectionery, the benchmark for Aix calissons, will of course be present at this exceptional event. Since 1830, we have been perpetuating the tradition with exceptional artisanal recipes. During the Blessing, you can discover our Aix calissons, made with the finest ingredients: candied melon, sweet almonds, and unleavened bread, all delicately glazed. An authentic and generous tasting experience, just like Provence itself.
Come and meet our confectioners, learn more about their expertise, and taste the calissons that showcase the sweet heritage of Aix-en-Provence.
Our other sweets inspired by calissons.
While calissons are the star of the show, we don’t stop there. Fans of original flavors will love our calisson-inspired products, such as our delicious calisson cream, which is smooth, subtly flavored, and perfect for spreading or incorporating into your homemade desserts. You can also discover our creative variations featuring the almond-melon duo, in different forms and textures, always with the same high standards of quality.
See you on September 7, 2025, in Aix-en-Provence for a unique celebration combining tradition, emotion, and fine dining.