Fête du Cidre à l'Ancienne

Sap-en-Auge: A "Petite Cité de Caractère" in the Heart of the Pays d'Auge

Nestled between L'Aigle and Vimoutiers, the village of Sap-en-Auge boasts the "Petite Cité de Caractère" label, a testament to its rich architectural heritage and preserved natural setting. It is in this bucolic setting that the Fête du Cidre à l'Ancienne takes place each autumn, an unmissable event for all lovers of Norman terroir and cider-making traditions.

The event is organized by the Grand Jardin association, which also manages the "De la Pomme au Calvados" ecomuseum, a place dedicated to preserving and passing on the know-how related to transforming apples into cider, calvados, and pommeau.

Traditional Production Demonstrations

The highlight of the festival is undoubtedly the demonstration of traditional apple grinding. An imposing 18th-century grinder, powered by a majestic Percheron horse, crushes cider apples before the amazed eyes of visitors. This fascinating spectacle allows us to understand the ancestral gestures of Norman cider makers and to measure the progress made from artisanal methods to modern techniques.

Visitors can then follow the entire cider-making process, from washing and sorting the apples to pressing and barreling. Passionate cider makers comment on each step and share their knowledge of the different cider apple varieties from the Pays d'Auge.

An Artisanal and Gourmet Market

Nearly sixty exhibitors set up at the Grand Jardin site to offer their creations and local products. Farmhouse ciders, calvados, perry, pommeau, jams, honey, Norman cheeses, charcuterie, and traditional pastries make up a complete panorama of the flavors of the Pays d'Auge and Perche.

Gourmands can enjoy spiced hot cider, teurgoule—the famous Norman rice pudding slow-cooked in the oven—apple fritters, and comforting soups, perfect for warming up in the autumn season. Art artisans also present their creations: pottery, basketry, jewelry, and turned wood objects.

A Family-Friendly and Convivial Event

The Fête du Cidre à l'Ancienne is designed to welcome all generations. Educational workshops allow children to discover the world of apples in a fun way, while exhibitions trace the history of cider cultivation in the Orne region. The warm and authentic atmosphere of this festival makes it a special moment to discover the living heritage of the Orne Pays d'Auge.

Admission and parking are completely free, making it accessible to all visitors who wish to share this moment of conviviality around Norman traditions.