The Pomegranate Festival in Testour: A 5-Day Celebration of Andalusian Heritage
The city of Testour, located in the governorate of Béja, Tunisia, is hosting its 9th annual Pomegranate Festival from October 29 to November 2, 2025. This 5-day event is a vibrant celebration of the region's Andalusian heritage, featuring a festival, cultural activities, and the famous "tantouras" - large tents at the entrance of the city that animate the pomegranate markets.
A Promising Harvest
As you approach Testour from Tunis, you'll notice pomegranates on display along the main road, with many vendors offering reasonable prices for the fruit. The harvest looks promising, with prices ranging from 1.5 to 2 dinars per kilogram. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of pomegranate-based products, including juice, syrup, jam, and cosmetics.
A Festival Like No Other
The Pomegranate Festival is a unique event that showcases the region's rich cultural and agricultural heritage. The festival features a variety of activities, including:
- A grand market where visitors can purchase fresh pomegranates and pomegranate-based products directly from local producers
- Exhibitions and sales of local handicrafts and artisanal products
- Traditional Andalusian music and dance performances
- Scientific conferences on agricultural practices and water heritage in Andalusia
- Workshops and cooking classes featuring traditional Andalusian cuisine
A Record-Breaking Affluence
The festival has attracted a large crowd from all over Tunisia, with visitors eager to experience the region's rich cultural and agricultural heritage. The event has become a major tourist attraction, showcasing the city's potential as a cultural and tourist destination.
A Celebration of Local Products
The festival is a celebration of local products, with a focus on pomegranates, which are a staple crop in the region. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of pomegranate-based products, including juice, syrup, jam, and cosmetics. The festival also features other local products, such as cheeses, dairy products, and handicrafts.
Visitor Impressions
Visitors to the festival have been impressed by the variety of products on offer and the warm welcome they have received from the local community. M. Nouri, a 70-year-old visitor, commented: "There are many stalls, a wide range of pomegranates, and other interesting products to discover. The atmosphere is lively and festive." Mme Karima, a former English teacher and regular visitor to the festival, added: "I came to the festival four years ago and wanted to bring my grandchildren this time. The road from Tunis is pleasant, and the festival is a great way to spend the school holidays."
Festival Program
The festival program includes a range of activities, including:
- October 29: Opening ceremony, conference on tourism in Testour, and traditional music and dance performances
- October 30: Scientific conference on ancient agricultural practices in Andalusia, children's spectacle, and traditional music performances
- October 31: Conference on the water heritage of Andalusia, Andalusian cuisine, and rap music performances
- November 1: Children's spectacles, majorette performances, and traditional music performances
- November 2: Closing ceremony, featuring traditional music and dance performances
The Pomegranate Festival in Testour is a unique and vibrant celebration of the region's Andalusian heritage, showcasing the city's rich cultural and agricultural heritage. With its wide range of activities and products on offer, the festival is a must-visit event for anyone interested in experiencing the best of Tunisia's local culture and traditions.
