A Catalyst for Employment and Businesses

More than 200,000 visitors are expected from January 7 to 18, 2026, in Plaine des Cafres for Miel Vert, a must-attend event in Southern Reunion Island.

This year, the City of Le Tampon is focusing on local culture and gastronomy, with a program largely dedicated to Reunion Island talent. Mayor Patrice Thien-Ah-Koon emphasizes the event’s central role for the region. “We’ve reached a cruising speed and we want to maintain it,” he says. Plaine des Cafres continues to develop, with the Belvedere viewpoint, the future Volcano Park, and farms open to the public, making Miel Vert a true showcase of the island’s agricultural and tourism heritage.

However, a health restriction is affecting this year’s event. Due to Newcastle disease recently detected in the municipality, no birds will be present on the site. “*No poultry, no birds,” the Mayor specifies. Despite this, the exhibition of farm animals, agriculture, crafts, and local know-how remains at the heart of the event.

Gastronomy takes center stage. The municipality aims to highlight traditional recipes and homemade products. “Bouchons and samosas are often mass-produced. We need to rediscover the taste and passion for simple dishes,” explains Patrice Thien-Ah-Koon. Four food vendors will offer a gourmet selection throughout the event.

As for entertainment, priority is given to local artists, with approximately 90% of the program featuring Réunion Island talent. Concerts, comedy, and themed evenings follow one another: séga-maloya, reggae, Réunion Island music, karaoke, urban festivals, as well as the Miss Plaine des Cafres and Mamies Réunion pageants.

Miel Vert also remains a major community festival. Around thirty fairground operators, 42 rides, 15 arcades and just as many children’s attractions bring the site to life. According to an impact study, each euro invested generates approximately five euros in economic benefits, highlighting the importance of the event for the south of the island.