Foire du Chevreau d'Arles-sur-Tech

An agricultural tradition rooted in Vallespir

Since 1986, the Goat and Cheese Fair in Arles-sur-Tech has celebrated goat farming and the Vallespir terroir every spring. Created by a group of passionate goat farmers from this southernmost valley in France, this fair has become one of the oldest and most popular agricultural events in the Pyrénées-Orientales. It is traditionally held on Palm Sunday at the Parc de la Mairie, in the heart of this Catalan village nestled at the foot of Canigou.

A large peasant market

The fair brings together about forty exhibitors: goat farmers (including local producers like the Plana Nera farm in Prats-de-Mollo, the Maquis goat farm in Montalba-le-Château, the Mouly Benc cheese factory in Serralongue), sheep and cattle farmers, market gardeners, beekeepers, winegrowers, and artisans. Visitors can discover and taste fresh and aged goat cheeses from the region, as well as many local products.

Activities and traditions

The day's program is rich in activities: farm animal exhibition, sheepdog demonstrations at 10:30 am and 2:30 pm, milking competitions, tug-of-war, hay bale throwing, sack races, and traditional rural games. The "L'aïoli des huiles" competition rewards the best preparations. Children enjoy a reading corner animated by the Lire et Faire Lire association, face painting, and games. The folk show by Alegria with the Patufets and the Confrérie des Chocolatiers animates the afternoon.

The peasant meal

At 12:30 pm, the traditional peasant meal brings guests together around goat-based specialties: asparagus tatin, goat dish, and fresh farm yogurt or cheese. This convivial meal (reservation required, limited places) is one of the highlights of the day, in a warm and Catalan atmosphere.