Foire à l'Andouille de Jargeau

Jargeau Andouille: A Centuries-Old Culinary Heritage

The Jargeau andouille is a charcuterie specialty whose production dates back to the 16th century in the Orléans region, with some sources even mentioning a Gallo-Roman origin. This local Loiret product gained prominence in the 19th century, notably thanks to the journalist and geographer Victor-Eugène Ardouin-Dumazet, who contributed to its fame. Measuring 15 to 20 cm long and 4 to 5 cm in diameter, the Jargeau andouille is made from at least 60% pork (shoulder, belly) and chitterlings, seasoned with shallots, onions, parsley, and spices, then steamed to achieve its characteristic firmness.

The Confrérie des Chevaliers du Goûte-Andouille

Guardian of this gastronomic tradition, the Confrérie des Chevaliers du Goûte-Andouille (Brotherhood of Knights of the Andouille Taster) was founded in 1971 with the mission to promote the Jargeau andouille and make this specialty known to the widest possible audience. Located at 18 boulevard Carnot in Jargeau, the brotherhood perpetuates ancestral know-how and ensures the quality of the product by organizing two major events each year: an international competition for the best andouille on the second Saturday of March, bringing together professional charcutiers from all over France, and the Foire à l'Andouille on the second Sunday of June.

A Gourmet Fair in the Heart of Jargeau

The Foire à l'Andouille takes place at the Halle de Jargeau, on the Place Gambetta, in the heart of this small Loiret town bordered by the Loire River. From 9 am to 6 pm, visitors can stroll among the stands of producers and charcutier artisans, taste the Jargeau andouille in all its forms—grilled, pan-fried, in brioche—and discover other gastronomic products from the Loire Valley and Sologne regions.

It is also during this fair that the prizes for the winners of the international competition for the best andouille are awarded, a solemn moment when the Knights of the Brotherhood, dressed in their ceremonial robes, induct new members and celebrate charcuterie excellence.

A Festive and Family Event

Beyond gastronomy, the Foire à l'Andouille is a true popular festival that brings together the inhabitants of Jargeau and visitors in a warm and friendly atmosphere. On-site catering allows visitors to enjoy a full meal featuring andouille, accompanied by wines from the Orléanais region and local products. Regional gastronomy stands also offer specialties from the Loiret: Gâtinais honey, saffron, cheeses, pastries, and Orléans vinegar.

Located just 20 kilometers from Orléans, on the banks of the Loire, the town of Jargeau offers a picturesque setting for this festive day. Visitors can extend their getaway by discovering the historical heritage of the town, marked by the epic of Joan of Arc, who won a decisive battle there in 1429, and by strolling along the Loire quays.