Brie Happy — Meaux celebrates its Brie

Brie de Meaux, king of cheeses, celebrated in its hometown

Since 2021, the town of Meaux has celebrated its cheese heritage every autumn with Brie Happy, a festive weekend entirely dedicated to Brie de Meaux AOP. This soft-ripened cheese with a bloomy rind, crowned "king of cheeses and cheese of kings" at the Congress of Vienna in 1815, has benefited from an Appellation d'Origine Protégée (Protected Designation of Origin) since 1980. Meaux, the historic capital of Brie, pays tribute to it with an event worthy of its renown.

The National Brie de Meaux Competition

The highlight of the weekend, the National Brie de Meaux Competition, takes place on Sunday morning at the Hôtel de Ville. The best Brie de Meaux AOP from France are tasted, judged, and awarded by a jury of professionals. The results are announced at noon, followed by an auction of the prize-winning bries for the benefit of a local association. This competition, organized in partnership with the Confrérie du Brie de Meaux, helps promote the excellence of Brie de Meaux producers.

A gourmet village on Place Henri IV

Place Henri IV, in the historic heart of Meaux, transforms into a vast gourmet village bringing together over 40 producers and artisans. Cheesemongers, charcuterie makers, bakers, winemakers, chocolatiers, jam makers, and other food artisans offer a palette of flavors from the Brie region and all over France. Michelin-starred chefs and master cheesemakers share their passion through public culinary demonstrations, showcasing Brie de Meaux in creative recipes.

Workshops, educational farm, and family activities

Families are at the heart of the event with numerous activities:

• Cheese-making workshops at the Maison du Brie de Meaux to discover the secrets of making the king of cheeses
• Educational farm with farm animals for the little ones
• Gourmet quizzes and cheese-related games
• Coloring workshops and creative activities for children

Concerts and festive atmosphere

Throughout the weekend, free concerts punctuate the festivities, creating a warm and friendly atmosphere on Place Henri IV. The event concludes on Sunday afternoon with a final concert and the last culinary demonstrations, allowing everyone to leave with delicious memories and local products.