Foire aux Haricots d'Arpajon

The Foire aux Haricots d'Arpajon: a hundred years of living tradition

Founded in 1922 as a regional agricultural fair, the Foire aux Haricots d'Arpajon has become over the decades one of the most emblematic events in Essonne. Organized every third weekend of September by Cœur d'Essonne Agglomération, it attracts over 150,000 visitors each year over three days, making it one of the busiest fairs in Île-de-France.

The hero: the chevrier bean

At the heart of the fair is the chevrier bean, an exceptional flageolet bean discovered in 1872 by Gabriel Chevrier, a horticulturist in Brétigny-sur-Orge. This green vegetable with its tender pod and fine grain has become the pride of the region: it is picked green, before full maturity, to retain its beautiful color and delicate taste. Since 1952, a gastronomic competition has awarded the best recipes based on the chevrier bean, perpetuating the tradition and promoting this local Essonne product.

A multifaceted popular event

The Foire aux Haricots d'Arpajon is much more than an agricultural fair. Over the three days, visitors can discover:

• A giant flea market bringing together hundreds of exhibitors
• A market of local and regional producers with fruits, vegetables, cheeses, honey, and artisanal products
• A funfair with attractions for all ages
• Open-air stage shows (concerts, street arts, entertainment)
• Agricultural exhibitions: agricultural machinery, farm animals, demonstrations
• A dog show and floral and horticultural exhibitions
• Ice sculptures created live by artists
• Gastronomic stands highlighting regional cuisine

The 2025 edition — 92nd edition

The 92nd edition was held from September 19 to 21, 2025. Under the theme of the DOM-TOM (French overseas departments and territories), this edition highlighted the French overseas territories through their cultures, cuisines, and music. Over 150,000 visitors walked the fairgrounds over three days.

The 2026 edition — 93rd edition

The 93rd edition will take place from September 18 to 20, 2026. It will perpetuate the centennial tradition of the fair while offering renewed entertainment. Admission is free for everyone.

A centennial in good shape

In 2022, the fair celebrated its 100th anniversary — a symbolic milestone celebrated with an exceptional program. This century of continuity demonstrates the attachment of the inhabitants of Essonne and all of Île-de-France to this event that combines conviviality, agricultural heritage, and popular celebration.