Les Fourmofolies

Les Fourmofolies: the festival of the mildest blue cheese

Every year, on the first weekend of August, the town of Ambert, capital of Fourme d'Ambert AOP, transforms into a huge celebration dedicated to its emblematic cheese. Les Fourmofolies is a gourmet and festive celebration that honors the "mildest of blue cheeses" and the know-how of producers and affineurs from Livradois-Forez.

A festival supported by the industry

Les Fourmofolies is organized by a trio of major local stakeholders:

• The Syndicat Interprofessionnel de la Fourme d'Ambert (SIFAm), which brings together AOP producers and affineurs
• The City of Ambert
• The Ambert Region Fair Committee

This collaboration ensures the festival has strong local roots and an authenticity that is its strength.

A rich and gourmet program

Over two days, Les Fourmofolies offers:

• 70 exhibitors spread throughout the town center of Ambert: cheese producers, local artisans, regional specialty producers
• More than 40 activities for all ages: cheese-making workshops, guided tastings, games, street performances
• 3 concerts to liven up the festival evenings
• An invitation to a guest AOP cheese each year, creating a dialogue between terroirs

A popular and free event

With over 20,000 visitors expected each year, Les Fourmofolies is the largest event in Livradois-Forez and a moment of pride for the entire region. Admission is completely free, making the festival accessible to everyone. Activities take place in the streets, squares, and buildings of Ambert's town center, creating a unique atmosphere of celebration and conviviality.

Fourme d'Ambert AOP

Fourme d'Ambert is one of the oldest cheeses in France, dating back to Gallo-Roman times. This blue cheese with a veined paste has benefited from the Protected Designation of Origin (AOP) since 1972. Made from cow's milk in the mountains of Livradois-Forez, it is distinguished by its mildness and creaminess, making it the "mildest of blue cheeses".