Fête de la Truffade

Truffade: The Emblematic Dish of Auvergne

Truffade is one of the most emblematic dishes of Auvergne cuisine. Originating from Cantal and Aubrac, this rustic and generous dish is made from potatoes sautéed in lard or butter, to which fresh Cantal tomme (or Aubrac tome) is added, melting slowly to form long, elastic strands. The name "truffade" comes from "truffa," which meant potato in Occitan. Traditionally prepared in the burons, these shepherd huts in the Cantal summer pastures, truffade was the daily meal of the buronniers who made cheese at high altitudes during the summer.

Served generously, often accompanied by a green salad and Cantal charcuterie (dry sausage, local ham), truffade has become a symbol of Auvergne conviviality and a must-have in local gastronomy. It differs from aligot, another neighboring specialty from Aubrac, by its less creamy texture and different preparation method.

The Fête de la Truffade in Arpajon-sur-Cère

Since 2016, the town of Arpajon-sur-Cère, bordering Aurillac, has organized its Fête de la Truffade every year in mid-July, which has become an unmissable event for the inhabitants and visitors of Cantal in just a few editions. In 2025, the festival celebrated its 10th edition, confirming its place in the Cantal festivities landscape.

This festive event takes place over three days, from Friday to Sunday, in the town center and at the Espace Vidalie in Arpajon-sur-Cère. The rich and varied program is designed to appeal to all generations with sports, cultural, gastronomic, and musical activities.

Festival Program

Friday morning begins with a "sausage-truffade" hike along the banks of the Cère river, combining nature walks and tasting of local specialties. A parade of draft horses livens up the morning, while an aperitif offered by the Animation Committee and the Association of Artisans and Merchants brings participants together at noon.

Throughout the weekend, visitors can enjoy a producers' market, culinary demonstrations centered around truffade, open-air concerts, and fairground attractions. The Prix de la Fête de la Truffade, an official cycling race (Open and Access categories), also attracts athletes and cycling enthusiasts. The outdoor meals, with truffade naturally taking center stage, are the highlights of the convivial atmosphere.

Arpajon-sur-Cère, at the gates of Aurillac

A town of over 6,000 inhabitants, Arpajon-sur-Cère is located at the gates of Aurillac, the prefecture of Cantal, in the Cère valley. Its dynamic associations and businesses make it an ideal place to host this celebration of Cantal gastronomy, combining culinary tradition, festive activities, and conviviality.