Foire Al Païs

A fair rooted in Ariège traditions

The Foire Al Païs — literally "the fair in the country" in Occitan — is a must-attend summer event in Mazères. Every first weekend of July, this traditional fair takes place around the Place du Général de Gaulle, under the market hall, and in the streets of the medieval fortified town. A true celebration of the Ariège terroir, it brings together local producers, artisans, flea market vendors, and rural tradition enthusiasts in a friendly and authentic atmosphere.

Night farmers' market and old-fashioned threshing

The highlight of the Foire Al Païs is the night farmers' market on Saturday evening, where local producers offer their specialties: charcuterie, cheeses, honey, jams, and other products from the Pyrenean region. In parallel, a night flea market allows you to hunt for treasures until midnight in a festive atmosphere. The most emblematic event remains the demonstrations of old-fashioned threshing, which revive the gestures of farmers of yesteryear and the trades of the traditional farm, with the presence of farm animals for the delight of families.

A full weekend of popular festivities

On Sunday, the fair continues with a large flea market that takes over the streets of the fortified town from 8 a.m. The threshing demonstrations and farm activities continue throughout the day, accompanied by a gathering of vintage cars and motorcycles that parade through the town in the late afternoon. On-site catering offers local specialties: grills, fries, fideos (traditional regional dish), and ice cream, at affordable prices. The entire event is free and open to all.

A living heritage of the fortified town of Mazères

The Foire Al Païs perpetuates a tradition of fairs and markets that dates back to the very foundation of the fortified town of Mazères in the Middle Ages. By promoting the agricultural know-how and local products of Ariège, it helps to keep the rural heritage of Basse Ariège alive. Every year, hundreds of visitors gather in the streets of the town to share this moment of conviviality that combines tradition and popular celebration.