Stage 1: design

Based on a theme, Eric Ball draws up the designs for the twelve floats and oversees their production.
The artist has been designing the floats since 2002. He is also involved in the Barr Harvest Festival, designing the Queen of the Wines float.
From his sketches and scale drawings, the floats are created in volume, thanks to the expertise of the teams in the municipal workshops.
 

Stage 2: manufacture

Sélestat's technical departments create the floats using a variety of materials: iron, wood and cardboard.
It's a job that takes several months, from spring to D-day.
Tinsmiths, carpenters, painters and other trades work together to bring the floats to life.
 

Stage 3: Preparing the surfaces

The metal floats are covered with self-adhesive paper, to which large sheets of paper are applied to allow the dahlias to be placed.
 

Stage 4: Illuminating the floats

The metal floats are covered with self-adhesive paper to which large sheets of paper are applied to allow the dahlias to be placed.
 

Stage 5: Putting the flowers in bloom

More than 500 people get down to work on Friday from 10am, racing against the clock until the end of the night for some. Nearly 500,000 dahlias are attached to these behemoths with staples and nails. It's a challenge taken up every year by the associations that are actively involved in the adventure.