Gironde: magic, challenges… A festival around the world of wizards near La Réole

From May 10th to 11th, the Moulinat farm in Loubens, near La Réole, will host the MagicoDéfis festival. The program includes games, workshops, a craft market, and a banquet inspired by wizards.

The wizarding world continues to fascinate generations, thanks to fictions like "Harry Potter" and "Hocus Pocus." Fans are once again meeting in Gironde for a magical weekend. On Saturday, May 10th and Sunday, May 11th, the MagicoDéfis festival will take place at the Moulinat farm in Loubens. This event, which first took place at the Château de Portets, was born from a meeting between enthusiasts.

On one side, Gabriel Cousin and Marine Barreau, founders of the Animea events agency in Cabanac-et-Villagrains, on the other, Betty Hostin, manager of the Private Coffee Show, a themed café in Cars near Blaye. Sound, lighting, decoration… They've thought of everything to create a unique atmosphere. "The farm's decor is magnificent, and owner Aurélie Fazembat is as passionate as we are. There will be several spaces so the public can be immersed in the world throughout the day."

Upon arrival, participants will be presented with a crest during a sorting ceremony in a nod to Harry Potter. They will then take on challenges, puzzles, and other games in the magical world. "Around thirty volunteers will be on hand to supervise each activity. There will be quizzes, puzzles, skill games, duels with wooden toys, potions challenges, and a mandrake hunt." Throughout the day, points will be tallied, and winners will receive rewards, including special discounts for on-site shops.

"There will be quizzes, puzzles, games of skill, duels with wooden games, potion challenges and a mandrake hunt."

Seventeen creators will participate in the craft market. It will be freely accessible and free of charge, without a festival pass. "The artisans will all come in costume, and their stalls will be staged. They come from Gironde and other departments. Their products are from the worlds of Elven, Fairytale, and Viking: board games, wands, candles, jewelry, etc. Harry Potter fans will also find what they're looking for at Terrier des Maraudeurs, a merchandise store from Biganos. And foodies can take home canned duck and cereals produced on the farm."

Festival-goers will also be able to take part in creative workshops, including dreamcatcher creation, flower crowns, and board game introductions. For refreshments, the farm will offer dishes like duck, sausages, and fries. The Private Coffee Show will serve milky drinks and pastries.

Gabriel Cousin and Marina Barreau, who are also wedding professionals, hope to make this festival a permanent fixture. "We already have over 400 reservations, and Saturday is already sold out. There's always a great atmosphere at events centered around this world; people dress up and connect with other fans."

Sunday pass (Saturday pass sold out): €22 for adults, €17 for children aged 5-12. Reservations at www.agence-animea.com, festival section.