Foire aux Ânes de Braize

The Bourbonnais Donkey, a Heritage Breed Celebrated in Braize

Since 1991, the small village of Braize, nestled in the heart of the Tronçais forest in the Allier region, has hosted the Foire aux Ânes (Donkey Fair) every last Sunday of August. Over the decades, it has become the most important fair dedicated to the Bourbonnais donkey in Auvergne. The Bourbonnais donkey is a breed originating from the north of the Massif Central, specifically from the Allier department, where there were nearly 8,000 donkeys at the end of the 19th century. Recognizable by its brown coat, often a dark shade called "chocolate," and the characteristic St. Andrew's cross on its back, this robust animal was long the indispensable companion for agricultural work and logging in the region.

A Festive Day Centered Around the Donkey

Organized by the association Braize Ambiance, the fair takes place at the "La Cornille" Donkey Center and the Maison de l'Âne (Donkey House), a restored farm located in Beauregard. The program for this day includes the award-winning donkey fair with a breeding competition organized by the French Association of the Bourbonnais Donkey (AFAB), which brings together the finest specimens of the breed. Visitors can admire driving competitions open to all, good-humored donkey races, and demonstrations of traditional agricultural work and logging.

Entertainment and Local Produce for the Whole Family

The fair also offers donkey rides and the famous "driving license" test for the youngest attendees, a fun activity much appreciated by families. The Compagnie des Cornill'Ânes livens up the day with a humorous show about the world of donkeys. Throughout the day, a large flea market with about a hundred exhibitors allows visitors to hunt for antiques and curiosities, while local producers offer tastings and sales of regional products from the Bourbonnais region.

A Popular and Friendly Event

With nearly 10,000 visitors each year, the Foire aux Ânes de Braize is a major event in the Pays de Tronçais and the Allier region. Snacks and drinks are available all day in a warm and family-friendly atmosphere. The event actively contributes to the conservation and promotion of the Bourbonnais breed, whose numbers had dangerously declined during the 20th century. Thanks to the work of breeders and associations, the Bourbonnais donkey is experiencing a revival today, and the Braize fair is its finest showcase.