Festival des Bœufs Gras de Pâques

The great festival of Aubrac meat in Laguiole

The Festival des Bœufs Gras de Pâques is the annual event for the Aubrac breed meat sector in Laguiole, in the heart of the Aubrac plateau. Every year in March, the third weekend before Easter, this festival perpetuates a centuries-old tradition of livestock fairs that once punctuated the lives of Rouergue farmers. Since its creation in 2000, the event has highlighted the quality of Aveyronnais breeding and the link between producers, buyers, butchers, and consumers.

Exhibition and sale of 200 exceptional animals

For two days, around 200 Aubrac breed animals with official quality labels — Label Rouge Bœuf Fermier Aubrac, IGP Fleur d'Aubrac, and organic animals — are exhibited and sold under a large marquee. After evaluation by a jury of experts, the first prizes are auctioned on Sunday at noon, before the fair opens to buyers and breeders. It's an opportunity to discover the excellence of extensive farming on the Aubrac pastures.

Le Bœuf au Comptoir, a unique gastronomic experience

On Saturday evening, the 'Bœuf au Comptoir' transforms Laguiole into a vast gourmet table. Eight beef recipes are offered at the counter, accompanied by the essential aligot from the Jeune Montagne cooperative, and the dessert is prepared by Maison Bras, the famous Michelin-starred restaurant in Laguiole. All this is enjoyed with music from an orchestra, in a festive and friendly atmosphere. Booking is highly recommended through the Tourist Office.

Parades, brotherhoods, and entertainment

On Sunday, a parade of brotherhoods, folk groups, and bands crosses the village streets decorated in the festival's colors with laurel branches. The blessing of the oxen takes place at noon. A gospel concert on Friday evening at the Fort church and a chocolate fair (entry €2) complete the festive program. The event celebrates the rural identity of Aubrac and the know-how of its breeders.