Festival des Goudots Gourmands

A unique competition where the public is the jury

Since 1997, the Festival des Goudots Gourmands has celebrated the gastronomic richness of Cantal every year in the heart of Aurillac. The originality of this event lies in its blind tasting competition, where visitors themselves taste, rate, and elect the best products among six emblematic specialties of the Cantal region: gentian (aperitif liqueur), rye bread, dry sausage, country pâté, Cantal AOP, and pounti. Following the tastings, producers are awarded the prestigious Goudots d'Or, d'Argent, and de Bronze, presented during a friendly ceremony.

A large gourmet market by the Jordanne

The festival takes place on the Cours d'Angoulême and the banks of the Jordanne, offering an exceptional setting in the heart of the city. A vast gourmet market bringing together 35 exhibitors offers a palette of flavors ranging from Cantal regional products to specialties from all over France: charcuterie, cheeses, pastries, ice cream, spices, olives, wines, craft beers, foie gras, and many other delicacies. Food stalls and refreshment stands allow for on-site tasting in a festive atmosphere, with the market open late into the night on Friday and Saturday evenings.

Musical entertainment and festivities for all

Throughout the weekend, strolling brass bands and music groups liven up the festival aisles. Previous editions have hosted bands such as Electric Sound, Fanfare Express, La Compagnie des Playbobyl, Quality Street Band, Les Mobil'Hommes, Pock-Pock Blues, and La Cro-Magnon Fanfare Rock. The musical atmosphere blends jazz, funk, rock, disco, and contemporary music, creating a joyful and lively atmosphere that sets the rhythm for the tastings.

For families, the Îlot Z'enfants (Children's Island) located on the banks of the Jordanne offers an outdoor play area for the youngest. On Sunday morning, a 6 km family gourmet hike allows participants to discover the landscapes of Puy Courny and Bois de la Fage, with a gourmet aperitif offered upon arrival.

An event rooted in the Cantal terroir

Organized by the City of Aurillac in partnership with Aurillac Agglo (formerly CABA) and the Office de Tourisme du Pays d'Aurillac, the Festival des Goudots Gourmands has become a must-attend event of the Aurillac summer. With nearly 20,000 visitors each year, it contributes to the influence of local producers and the promotion of gastronomic know-how in Cantal. Admission is completely free, making this event a popular celebration open to all food lovers.

Workshops for the curious palate

Beyond the competition and the market, the festival offers tasting workshops led by professionals, such as blind wine tastings or food and wine pairing initiations. These special moments allow visitors to refine their palate and better understand the terroirs and products that make Auvergne's gastronomy so rich.