A prestigious wine heritage
Since 1948, the Foire aux Vins d’Alsace has been a major annual event in Alsace, a region renowned for its winemaking tradition. For over 70 years, this fair has been attracting wine lovers, producers and tourists to discover the unique flavors of the region. In this article, we retrace the fascinating history of the Alsace Wine Fair, from its humble beginnings to its current international renown.
Modest origins
The origins of the Alsace Wine Fair in Colmar date back to 1948 (poster by caricaturist Hansi).
By this time, Colmar was already renowned for its vineyards and winegrowing heritage. To promote local wines, a group of winemakers decided to organize a small wine exhibition as part of the Colmar Fair, at the instigation of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Colmar Town Hall. A wine tasting was offered in a festive and folkloric atmosphere. This first edition attracted a modest number of visitors, but laid the foundations for an event that was soon to grow.
In those days, concerts at the Foire de Colmar were of particular importance, entertaining wine lovers and customers at trade fairs. The atmosphere was created with a few trestles set up at the back of the old hospital, on the Place du 2 février. Over time, the stage was moved to the edge of the rue de la Montagne Verte, and extended by shack-lodges.
Today’s Montagne Verte hall, made up of “guinguettes” and stalls, although temporary, offered all the necessary comforts. The “Halle aux vins” (now called the covered market) became the place to be for drinking, tasting and dancing.
Growth and renown
Over the years, the Foire aux Vins gained in popularity and grew to become one of Europe’s biggest wine events. Thousands of visitors flocked to taste the region’s wines, meet the winemakers and take part in a unique festive atmosphere. The number of wine exhibitors multiplied, attracted by the opportunity to present their products to a passionate and well-informed public.
This organization lasted for 10 years, until the arrival in 1957 of Johnny Stark, a producer of French shows, brought a new dimension to the Fair, founding the Festival de la Foire aux Vins, which produced on stage the greatest artists of the time.
Johnny Stark, known for his work with popular artists such as Johnny Hallyday, came up with the idea of organizing a music festival at the Colmar Wine Fair. Its aim was to entertain visitors with concerts and shows, adding a touch of glamour to the event.
Over the years, the Wine Fair Festival has become increasingly popular, attracting renowned national and international artists. It has become one of the most important music festivals in Alsace, and has helped reinforce the reputation of the Foire de Colmar as a not-to-be-missed event.
Johnny Halliday in concert in Colmar in 1961
Evolution and modernization
Over the decades, the Wine Fair continued to develop and modernize. Permanent infrastructures were built to welcome visitors and exhibitors, offering spaces adapted for tastings, sales and entertainment.
The Foire aux Vins has also become a not-to-be-missed event for food lovers. Visitors can enjoy a variety of tasty regional dishes, accompanied by the finest Alsace wines. Culinary competitions and cooking demonstrations are also organized to showcase the talents of local chefs.
In addition, the Wine Fair has broadened its scope to include cultural events such as art exhibitions, wine conferences and children’s activities. These additions helped attract a diverse audience and promote the region’s cultural richness.
2019 was a record-breaking year for attendance, with over 300,000 visitors.
Covid in 2020 and 2021 unfortunately halted this momentum, but did not dampen the teams’ spirits.
International recognition
Thanks to its rich history and growing renown, Colmar’s Foire aux Vins d’Alsace has attracted attention beyond France’s borders. Today, visitors from all over the world come to Colmar to take part in this emblematic event.
The fair has become a must-attend event for wine industry professionals, who see it as an opportunity to promote their wines on an international scale. Special tastings, meetings with experts and prestigious competitions all add to the fair’s credibility and prestige.
Highlights
Throughout its history, the Foire aux Vins has been marked by unforgettable moments. These included the celebration of the fair’s 50th anniversary in 1997, which provided an opportunity to highlight the achievements and progress of the Alsatian wine industry.
The fair also welcomed famous personalities from the world of wine, such as renowned sommeliers, food critics and winemaking experts. Their presence contributed to the fair’s growth and growing reputation.
The Foire aux Vins is much more than just a wine event. It embodies the very essence of Alsace’s winegrowing heritage, while offering a unique experience to visitors from all over the world. Its fascinating history, constant development and international recognition bear witness to its importance on the world wine scene.
By preserving its traditions while continually renewing itself, the Foire aux Vins has secured a promising future. It continues to be a meeting place for wine enthusiasts, food lovers and those curious to discover the wonders of Alsace.
The 2023 poster for the 74th edition. Click on the poster to find out more.
