Festival de l'Andouille d'Aire-sur-la-Lys
The great gastronomic and popular festival of Aire-sur-la-Lys since 1962
About Festival de l'Andouille
The Andouille of Aire-sur-la-Lys: A Centuries-Old Tradition
Since 1962, every first Sunday of September, Aire-sur-la-Lys pays tribute to its emblematic gastronomic specialty: andouille. This artisanal charcuterie, prepared according to local know-how passed down from generation to generation, is the pride of this historic town in the Pas-de-Calais, sometimes nicknamed the "city of Lydéric" in reference to its founding legend.
A Day of Popular Celebration
The Festival de l'Andouille is an entire day of festivities that enlivens the entire town of Aire-sur-la-Lys:
- Tastings at the Halle au Beurre: visitors can discover and savor Aire's andouille prepared by local charcutiers in a friendly and gourmet atmosphere
- Parade: a festive procession crosses the town's streets, accompanied by music and entertainment
- Foot races: sports events open to all in the streets of the town
- Variety show: a free show is offered on the Grand'Place in the late afternoon
The Andouille Toss
The most anticipated moment of the day is undoubtedly the andouille toss from the Bailliage's machicolation. In the late afternoon, the Mayor of Aire-sur-la-Lys and his guests throw andouilles to the crowd gathered below, perpetuating a joyful and good-natured ritual that defines this unique festival in France.
Fireworks to Conclude
The day ends beautifully with fireworks launched from the town center, illuminating the sky of Aire-sur-la-Lys and concluding this gastronomic festival in a festive and spectacular atmosphere.
Over Sixty Years of Tradition
With over sixty editions to its name, the Festival de l'Andouille d'Aire-sur-la-Lys has become an identity event for the town and its region. It attracts thousands of visitors each year, contributing to the influence of this historic city located at the confluence of the Lys and the Neufossé canal, rich in remarkable architectural heritage.
Festival de l'Andouille — edition 2026
Prices Festival de l'Andouille 2026
Practical information — Festival de l'Andouille
Location
The Festival de l'Andouille takes place in the center of Aire-sur-la-Lys (62120), mainly on the Grand'Place, at the Halle au Beurre, and in the adjacent streets. Aire-sur-la-Lys is a historic town with rich architectural heritage, including its 16th-century Bailliage, its Saint-Pierre collegiate church, and its half-timbered houses.
Access
- By car: From Saint-Omer (20 min), take the D943 towards Aire-sur-la-Lys. From Béthune (20 min), D943 towards Aire-sur-la-Lys. From Lille (45 min), A26 exit 4 then towards Aire-sur-la-Lys. From Arras (40 min), D939 then D943. Free parking lots are available on the outskirts of the town center. Note: traffic in the town center is restricted on the day of the festival due to the parade.
- By train: Isbergues station (5 km), served by the TER Hazebrouck-Arras line, then bus or taxi to Aire-sur-la-Lys. Hazebrouck station (20 km, TER Lille-Calais) also offers connections.
Date
The festival takes place every year on the first Sunday of September. It is an all-day event, from morning until the fireworks in the evening.
Typical Day's Program
- Morning: Opening of tasting stands at the Halle au Beurre. Gourmet market with andouilles and local specialties.
- During the day: Festive parade through the streets of the town center, accompanied by music and entertainment. Foot races open to all in the town.
- Late afternoon: Free variety show on the Grand'Place. Then the most anticipated moment: the andouille toss from the Bailliage's machicolation by the mayor and his guests, to the cheers of the crowd.
- Evening: Grand fireworks display from the town center, concluding the day of festivities.
Prices
Free admission to all events, the parade, and the show. Tastings of andouilles and other products are paid at the Halle au Beurre and on the stands.
Food and Drink
Tastings of andouilles and local specialties at the Halle au Beurre. Food and drink available on the Grand'Place and in the adjacent streets throughout the day.
Contact
Mairie d'Aire-sur-la-Lys — ville-airesurlalys.fr
Facebook: Ville d'Aire-sur-la-Lys
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Where does it take place — Festival de l'Andouille
Centre-ville et Halle au Beurre
Grand'Place, 62120 Aire-sur-la-Lys