Event Details
Welcome to the Foire aux Truffes et au Foie Gras in Southwest France
As the days grow shorter, the traditional truffle and foie gras markets open across the Périgord and Gascony regions. Rather than a single festival, this is a whole series of weekly markets that move from village to village, from Sainte Alvère and Sarlat in the Périgord to Samatan and Gimont in Gascony. Together they form one of the best known food trails in France.
Highlights and Attractions Across Périgord and Gascony
- The historic truffle market of Sainte Alvère, which traditionally opens the season
- The Fête de la Truffe in Sarlat, with cooking demonstrations, tastings and the famous truffle weighing
- The foie gras and truffle markets on Place Saint Louis in Périgueux, with special festive editions around Christmas and New Year
- The Marché au Gras in Samatan, one of the largest foie gras markets in France
- Other lively market towns such as Vergt, Montignac, Brantôme, Gimont, Eauze and Seissan
- Direct contact with producers, often including on the spot tastings and the chance to buy straight from the source
Schedule: When and Where the Markets Take Place
In the Périgord, the season usually begins in late November with the market in Sainte Alvère and runs through mid February or even into March, with regular market days in towns such as Sarlat, Périgueux, Vergt and Brantôme. In Gascony, the foie gras markets run from late October to late March, most famously the Monday market in Samatan, alongside markets in Gimont, Eauze and Seissan. Exact weekdays and times vary from town to town and are confirmed each season by the local municipalities and tourist offices.
Visiting the Foire aux Truffes et au Foie Gras
Most of these markets are free to attend, with only a few special events, such as cooking classes or gala evenings during the Fête de la Truffe in Sarlat, requiring registration and a participation fee. For up to date dates, it is worth checking the websites of the local tourist offices for Dordogne Périgord and Gers Gascony.
Visitor Tips: Travel and Accommodation in the Region
- Markets typically run in the early morning, so arriving early gives the best selection
- Périgord and Gascony can be several hours apart by car, so allow enough time if planning to visit both on one trip
- Warm clothing is recommended, since many markets take place outdoors or in open air halls
- Accommodation in Sarlat, Périgueux or around Auch should be booked early during the winter season
