Outilautrec — Fair of Tools and Popular Art

Outilautrec, the memory of crafts celebrated

Born from the passion of local collectors and artisans for tools and age-old know-how, Outilautrec has established itself as one of the most original events in the Tarn. Every year at the end of September, the hilltop village of Lautrec, classified among the Most Beautiful Villages of France, transforms into a living museum of crafts and popular art.

A heritage of tools and techniques in the spotlight

The heart of the event is a large exhibition of old tools from all trades: carpentry, masonry, agriculture, shoemaking, cooperage, clog making… Collectors and enthusiasts from all over the Southwest display their treasures, often accompanied by fascinating explanations of past uses and techniques.

Special attention is given to blacksmith cutlery: cutlers demonstrate the live crafting of artisanal knives, from heating the metal to the final sharpening. The public can observe the work of the forge, feel the heat of the glowing metal, and understand the precise gestures inherited from generations of Tarn blacksmiths.

Radios, phonographs, and collectibles

Outilautrec is not limited to tools: the event also hosts exhibitors specializing in wireless telegraphy devices, vintage phonographs, and radios. These objects, witnesses to the history of communication and popular entertainment, attract collectors and the curious in search of rare items. Demonstrations allow these old devices to be heard in action.

Popular art, the soul of the fair

Beyond tools and machines, it is indeed popular art in all its diversity that gives Outilautrec its soul. Wood sculptures, naive paintings, earthenware, embroidery, wicker objects, old toys: exhibitors present creations and collections that testify to the creativity and genius of popular artisans and artists from all regions of France.

Lautrec, an ideal medieval setting

The setting for the event is exceptional in itself. Lautrec is one of the rare medieval villages in the Tarn to have preserved its windmill, its pink brick streets, and its belfry. Classified among the Most Beautiful Villages of France, it offers Outilautrec a rare heritage setting that enhances the fair's authentic atmosphere. Visitors can take the opportunity to discover the village's landmarks: the Salette mill, the ramparts, and the Caussade gate.

A popular and free event

Admission to Outilautrec is completely free, in line with the event's popular and accessible mission. The fair lasts two days, allowing visitors to take their time to chat with exhibitors, understand the techniques presented, and stroll through the streets of Lautrec. Refreshment stands and food stalls offer local specialties, including Lautrec's pink garlic, the village's emblematic product.

9th edition in 2025

In 2025, Outilautrec held its 9th edition on September 27th and 28th, confirming its place in the Tarn's festive calendar. The event continues to grow, attracting new exhibitors and an ever-larger audience, loyal to this unique gathering that combines heritage, living crafts, and conviviality in one of the most beautiful villages in the Tarn.