Mourjou Chestnut and Chestnut Tree Fair

An adventure born from a passion for chestnuts

In 1990, a group of young people from the commune of Mourjou, a small village of 360 inhabitants nestled in the heart of the Cantal Chestnut Grove, decided to create a fair dedicated to the chestnut. Their goal: to offer quality entertainment in the late season, contribute to the renewal of the chestnut tree, and promote the identity of this unique terroir in the south of Cantal. What began as a local initiative quickly became one of the most emblematic events in the Auvergne region.

National recognition

Over the years, the Mourjou Chestnut Fair has gained a reputation that extends far beyond the borders of Cantal. It has obtained the prestigious label "The Most Beautiful Festivals in France", awarded by the national association working to preserve traditional festivals. The territory of Mourjou and the Cantal Chestnut Grove is also classified as a Remarkable Site of Taste, a distinction that highlights the excellence of its gastronomic heritage.

An exceptional market and entertainment for everyone

The heart of the fair is a large market bringing together over 80 exhibitors: chestnut producers and those who make derivatives (flour, cream, jam, liqueur), artisans working with chestnut wood, and local producers from the Chestnut Grove. Visitors can taste the famous roasted chestnuts (over 1.2 tons each year), fouaces made with chestnut flour, and quench their thirst with local apple juice and over 2,000 liters of cider.

Throughout the weekend, the Maison de la Châtaigne (Chestnut House) offers numerous activities: technical demonstrations of chestnut wood working, conferences, exhibitions, and workshops for children. Two hikes allow visitors to discover the surrounding chestnut groves and the natural heritage of this exceptional territory.

A lively and popular festival

The Chestnut Fair is also a great popular festival with street performances, strolling brass bands, convivial meals, and dance evenings. The event mobilizes 200 volunteers each year, representing more than half of the village's population, demonstrating remarkable collective commitment.

With over 20,000 visitors welcomed each year, the Mourjou Chestnut Fair has greatly contributed to the revival of chestnut tree cultivation in Cantal and is a must-see event of the Auvergne autumn. Admission is free, making this event accessible to all audiences.

The Association du Pélou: guardian of tradition

Since 1995, the Association du Pélou has been organizing the fair, succeeding the initial festival committee. It also manages the Confrérie du Pélou (Brotherhood of the Pélou), composed of 22 members committed to promoting chestnuts, the chestnut tree, and the heritage of chestnut cultivation. The association works year-round to keep this tradition alive and prepare each new edition.