Foire Saint-Rigobert
Rânes' historic agricultural fair
About Foire Saint-Rigobert
The Foire Saint-Rigobert is a centuries-old agricultural fair held annually in early December in Rânes, in the Orne department. Documented since 1606, this fair is one of the oldest in the department. Organized by the Comité Foire Saint-Rigobert, it brings together breeders, farmers, exhibitors, and visitors for a program combining animal competitions, a market of local producers and artisans, entertainment, and conviviality. The fair has adapted over the centuries, moving from January to December in 1992 for climatic and economic reasons.
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A Centuries-Old Fair in the Heart of the Bocage
The Foire Saint-Rigobert in Rânes has been an event rooted in the history of the Orne bocage for over four centuries. Documented since 1606, it is one of the oldest fairs in the Orne and perpetuates an agricultural and commercial tradition that has spanned the ages. Every December, the commune of Rânes hosts breeders, artisans, and visitors for a day of popular festivities.
The Agricultural Competition
The heart of the Foire Saint-Rigobert remains the animal competition. Breeders from the region present their best animals—cattle, horses, and other farm animals—in breed competitions that reward the excellence of Norman breeding. These competitions are an opportunity for professionals to discuss their practices and showcase their work to the general public.
The Producers' and Artisans' Market
Alongside the competition, a market of local producers and artisans allows visitors to discover and purchase the riches of the Orne region: cheeses, cured meats, cider, perry, honey, jams, artisanal breads, and seasonal specialties. Artisans also present their creations: wooden objects, pottery, textiles, and jewelry.
Entertainment for All
The fair offers a program of varied entertainment: demonstrations of agricultural know-how, educational presentations for children, games, and shows. The friendly atmosphere and the warm welcome from the residents of Rânes make this day a moment of sharing and discovery appreciated by all generations.
Adapting a Tradition
In 1992, the organizers decided to move the fair's date from January to December for climatic and economic reasons. This change allowed the event to regain new momentum, with the Advent period offering a festive setting conducive to attendance and commercial exchanges. In 2021, the fair was even held in the park of the Château de Rânes due to health constraints, demonstrating its adaptability.
Rânes, a Remarkable Heritage Setting
The commune of Rânes, with its medieval castle and preserved bocage environment, offers an authentic setting for this historic fair. Located between Argentan and Flers, it is a living testament to Norman rural identity.
Foire Saint-Rigobert — edition 2026
Foire Saint-Rigobert 2026 in Rânes. Centuries-old agricultural fair with animal competitions, local producers' and artisans' market, and family entertainment.
Highlights Foire Saint-Rigobert 2026
- Over 400 years of history
- Animal competitions
- Local produce and crafts market
Prices Foire Saint-Rigobert 2026
Practical information — Foire Saint-Rigobert
Practical Information
Access
Rânes is located between Argentan and Flers, in the Orne bocage, in a peaceful rural environment.
- By car: From Argentan, take the D924 towards Flers, then the D18 (20 min). From Flers, D924 towards Argentan then D18 (25 min). From Caen, A88 exit Argentan then D924 and D18 (approx. 1h10). From Alençon, N12 then D924 (approx. 40 min). Free parking is signposted in the village and on the outskirts of the fairgrounds.
- By train: Nearest stations are Briouze (10 km) or Argentan (20 km), served by TER Normandie. Then taxi or carpooling connection.
Location
Rânes town center, 61150. The fair takes place in the village streets and on communal spaces. In exceptional circumstances, it may be held in the park of the Château de Rânes, as was the case in 2021.
Hours
Saturday, generally from 9 am to 6 pm. Animal competitions start in the morning, while entertainment and the market run throughout the day. Precise times and detailed program announced before each edition on the town's website and social media.
Prices
Completely free entry for all visitors, including competitions and entertainment.
Food and Drink
Food and drink stands on-site offered by the organizing committee and local associations. Local Orne products are sold directly by the producers present: cheeses, cured meats, cider, perry, honey, artisanal bread, and other seasonal specialties.
The Château de Rânes
Take advantage of your visit to discover the Château de Rânes, an imposing medieval building overlooking the village. Its park offers a green and peaceful setting, a testament to the rich history of this bocage commune.
Tips
- Bring warm and waterproof clothing, as the fair takes place outdoors in December.
- Boots are recommended if the ground is wet.
- Arrive early in the morning to attend the animal competitions and get the best selection from the producers.
Accommodation
Guesthouses, B&Bs, and hotels are available in the surrounding area, particularly in Argentan (20 km) and Bagnoles-de-l'Orne (30 km). Information from the Tourist Office.
Contact
Comité Foire Saint-Rigobert
Mairie de Rânes: 02 33 39 73 87
Website: ranes.fr
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Travel to this festival
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Where does it take place — Foire Saint-Rigobert
Centre-bourg de Rânes
Centre-bourg, 61150 Rânes