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The Foires Grasses of Brive-la-Gaillarde
A Festive Gourmet Market
Foires Grasses Brive Roman Ramshorn 1641 1920pxOn selected days from November to March it’s gourmet heaven at the Halle George Brassens in Brive. Running alongside the traditional weekly Saturday market held at the Halle, you’ll find this special market fair.
Renowned for its selection of fattened ducks, geese, foie gras, capons, and truffles—each product exemplifying the rich culinary traditions of the region and only the finest quality making the cut!
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With around 30 passionate and dedicated producers setting up their stalls, the Foires Grasses markets offer an abundance of local specialties, including the finest duck livers, sumptuous goose, and plump, flavourful capons.
A jury of seasoned experts and professionals awards prizes to the best whole fattened ducks, geese, fresh foie gras, and capons. This recognition ensures that only the best duck and geese produce make it to the tables of discerning buyers. It’s also the perfect occasion to meet local producers, sample mouth-watering delicacies, and pick up recipes for your festive feasts.
Foire des Rois
One of the event’s standout attractions is the historic Foire des Rois, an annual celebration dating back to 1796. This special fair, held in January, not only allows visitors to have their foie gras canned free of charge but also offers the delightful experience of enjoying a slice of a giant galette des rois—a traditional French New Year’s cake served to mark the Epiphany. This giant cake, sliced and shared among the crowd, brings an extra dose of fun and festivity to the market.
A festive, convivial atmosphere is guaranteed at the Foires Grasses. Beyond the chance to stock up on exceptional produce, they provide an opportunity to engage with the artisans behind these delicacies. Visitors can meet the producers, ask questions about their methods, and pick up recipe tips to recreate festive dishes at home.
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Quality charter
To uphold the esteemed reputation of these fairs, a rigorous quality charter is in place, ensuring that every product meets strict standards. To preserve its reputation and reassure consumers, the town of Brive, the Chamber of Agriculture, the veterinary services and the producers’ unions have drawn up this charter. It includes guaranteeing the traceability of products and ensuring safe practice of traditional methods that guarantees the authenticity and excellence of the region’s beloved foie gras.
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Foodie Cooking Class Heaven
For those keen on learning more about culinary traditions, the market regularly hosts live cooking demonstrations by renowned local chefs from the Tables Gaillardes. Using fresh market ingredients, two or three chefs set up kitchens each Saturday, sharing tips on cooking, preserving, and enjoying the best of the region’s products. These expert chefs guide attendees through the art of preparing and preserving regional specialties, from duck confit to foie gras, providing invaluable insights into the techniques that have been passed down through generations.
Apron Relief
However, if cooking is not your strong suit, and you’d rather skip the kitchen, don’t worry! The Foires Grasses offer a treasure trove of ready-to-go gourmet treats, including jars of duck confit, stuffed goose necks, foie gras, and even poultry ready to order for family gatherings. These ready-made goodies are perfect for anyone who’d rather stay away from the kitchen chaos and still indulge in the season’s best flavours—no apron required!
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Not just a flash in the pan
The Foires Grasses are steeped in tradition, with Brive-la-Gaillarde boasting a rich history of markets and fairs that stretches back centuries. In fact, records show that as early as 1218, a bustling Friday market was already part of the town’s staple and by the late 18th century, Brive was hosting over 20 fairs each year. These livery winter fairs eventually transformed into today’s Foires Grasses, a grand celebration of the region’s culinary excellence and rich agricultural heritage. What began as a humble 13th century market has become an iconic festival, honoring local producers and the finest gastronomy in the heart of the Dordogne Valley.
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The numbers behind the Foires Grasses are truly impressive! Each week during the season, up to 2,500 ducks and geese grace the market stalls, adding up to a staggering 80,000 ducks and geese sold directly to eager consumers. With around 30 expert producers showcasing their finest offerings at each event, all hailing from the vibrant Brive region, the Foires Grasses play a crucial role in supporting the local economy.
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To take the experience up a notch, the Confrérie Mycogastronomique—a local fraternity devoted to the celebration of mushrooms and gastronomy—frequently graces the Foires Grasses with its presence. Visitors can dive into the fascinating world of fungi in regional cuisine. Learning how to pair the finest mushrooms with sumptuous foie gras and other delicacies. It’s even possible to get your hands on some prized truffles to enhance your own culinary creations at home!
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More than just a market
The Foires Grasses of Brive-la-Gaillarde are much more than just a market; they are an immersive celebration of the region’s vibrant heritage, where food, culture, and tradition blend seamlessly in a lively and convivial atmosphere. Whether you’re a seasoned gourmet, foodie or simply a lover of good food, this event is your golden ticket to indulge in the festive season’s most exquisite flavours. Meet passionate local producers who pour their hearts into their craft, discover hidden gems, and take home a taste of the Périgord to share with friends and family. It’s a gastronomic adventure you won’t want to miss!
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Practical Information
Location: Halle Georges Brassens, 12 Quai Tourny, Brive-la-Gaillarde.
Timing: The fairs coincide with the morning market, running only during the mornings on selected dates from November to March during the Festive Season.
Parking
Underground parking with direct market access for just 1 euro on Saturdays.
Free overground parking for the first two hours every day.
