Foire à l'Ail et au Basilic

The Foire à l'Ail et au Basilic of Tours

The Foire à l'Ail et au Basilic is one of the oldest traditions in the city of Tours. Every July 26th, on Saint Anne's Day, the Halles and Vieux-Tours district is filled with the scents of fresh garlic and basil, perpetuating a custom that dates back to the Middle Ages.

A living medieval tradition

For centuries, July 26th has marked the beginning of the garlic and basil harvest in Touraine. This date coincides with the feast of Saint Anne, patron saint of gardeners. Tradition dictates that garlic be celebrated because Touraine is a renowned production area, and basil because popular legends attribute to it the power to ward off the evil eye. On this occasion, the city dresses in green, pink, and white, the emblematic colors of these two aromatic plants.

A market of nearly 200 exhibitors

Each year, nearly 200 merchants and producers set up their stalls in the area of Place du Grand Marché and Place Châteauneuf. Garlic producers present their different varieties - white garlic, pink garlic, purple garlic - while horticulturists offer basil plants in pots. Beyond the day's stars, the fair hosts many local artisans and producers.

A large gastronomic market

The fair is complemented by a true gastronomic and artisanal market that showcases Touraine's flavors. Visitors can discover and purchase charcuterie, cheeses - including Sainte-Maure de Touraine - jams, Loire wines, regional sweets, and many local specialties. Culinary demonstrations and tastings complete this gourmet offering.

The historic heart of Tours celebrates

The fair takes over the historic district of Vieux-Tours, with its half-timbered houses and medieval squares. It is in this remarkable heritage setting that the event unfolds, creating a unique atmosphere combining tradition, heritage, and gastronomy. The Foire à l'Ail et au Basilic is a moment of conviviality that brings together locals and visitors around a living culinary heritage.