The great centenary agricultural fair of Bassigny in Haute-Marne
Every last Sunday of September, the town of Montigny-le-Roi in Val-de-Meuse, Haute-Marne, hosts its famous agricultural fair, a centenary event organized by the Fédération des Éleveurs du Bassigny. With over 200 exhibitors, two agricultural competitions — cattle (Simmental, Charolais, Limousin) and Ardennes draft horses —, a poultry exhibition, street entertainment, and numerous local produce stands, the Montigny Fair attracts several thousand visitors each year in a friendly atmosphere.
The Foire Agricole de Montigny-le-Roi is one of the oldest and most emblematic events in Haute-Marne. Created at the beginning of the 20th century, it is organized every year by the Fédération des Éleveurs du Bassigny, which has been perpetuating the agricultural vocation of this territory, located at the borders of Champagne and Lorraine, for over a hundred years. From its origins, the fair's mission was to bring together the breeders of Bassigny to present their finest animals and foster exchanges between the agricultural world and the general public.
The heart of the Montigny Fair remains its two agricultural competitions, which begin at 9 am. The first is dedicated to cattle: Simmental and Charolaise breeds are judged by a panel of experts, while Limousin cows are presented. Breeders from Bassigny and neighboring regions compete for prizes and awards that distinguish the most remarkable animals. The second competition is dedicated to Ardennes draft horses, a powerful and majestic breed deeply rooted in the equestrian heritage of the Grand Est region. Harnessing and traction demonstrations allow the public to discover the strength and elegance of these exceptional horses.
Around the competitions, the fair features a vast market bringing together over 200 exhibitors from all over the Grand Est region. You can find local produce from Haute-Marne and Champagne, local crafts, clothing, agricultural machinery dealerships, as well as a poultry exhibition showcasing different breeds of fowl. Visitors stroll through the streets and squares of Montigny-le-Roi, moving from one stand to another, tasting local specialties, and stopping at the numerous refreshment stands and food stalls.
The Montigny Fair is also a major popular festival. At 2 pm, the traditional parade of young children accompanied by their calves delights the public and passes on the passion for breeding to the younger generations. Street entertainment by local actors punctuates the day, while fairground rides bring joy to the youngest. The warm and family-friendly atmosphere of the fair makes it a special reunion time for the inhabitants of Bassigny, Haute-Marne, and the surrounding departments.
The Foire Agricole de Montigny-le-Roi benefits from the support of the Departmental Council of Haute-Marne, the primary partner of this centenary event, as well as the municipality of Val-de-Meuse and local economic actors. Presided over by Annette Richard, the Fédération des Éleveurs du Bassigny mobilizes numerous volunteers each year to keep this tradition alive, contributing to the agricultural and cultural influence of southern Haute-Marne. The fair is a true economic driver for the territory, attracting several thousand visitors and generating significant commercial activity throughout the weekend.
The 117th edition of the Foire Agricole de Montigny-le-Roi will be held on Sunday, September 27, 2026, in Val-de-Meuse. An unmissable event in Bassigny, this centenary fair will bring together over 200 exhibitors, cattle and horse competitions, a poultry exhibition, and numerous activities for the whole family.
The 117th edition of the Foire Agricole de Montigny-le-Roi will take place on Sunday, September 27, 2026, in the town of Montigny-le-Roi, a delegated commune of Val-de-Meuse in Haute-Marne.
Organized by the Fédération des Éleveurs du Bassigny, this over-a-century-old fair will, as every year, feature its two major agricultural competitions: the cattle competition with the Simmental, Charolaise, and Limousine breeds, and the Ardennes draft horse competition with harnessing and traction demonstrations.
Over 200 exhibitors from all over the Grand Est region will be present: local produce, crafts, agricultural dealers, clothing, and much more. The poultry exhibition, the parade of children with their calves, street entertainment, fairground rides, and food stalls will complete this festive and convivial day. Admission is free.
The Agricultural Fair is held in Montigny-le-Roi, a delegated commune of Val-de-Meuse, in the department of Haute-Marne (52), in the Grand Est region. The town is located on the road to Neufchâteau, in the heart of Bassigny, the agricultural and pastoral area of southern Haute-Marne.
The fair takes place on the last Sunday of September, from 9 am to 6 pm.
Free admission for all visitors, no prior reservation required.
Numerous food and drink stands are present on the fairgrounds throughout the day. You can find local specialties from Haute-Marne and Champagne, grilled meats, fries, crepes, hot and cold drinks. Local produce enthusiasts can taste and buy directly from the producers present at the market.
The fair takes place outdoors in the streets and squares of Montigny-le-Roi. The ground is generally accessible to people with reduced mobility, but some areas may have uneven surfaces. Public toilets are available on the fairgrounds.
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Bourg de Montigny-le-Roi
Route de Neufchâteau, Montigny-le-Roi, 52140 Val-de-Meuse