With the sale of mountain animals (cattle, sheep, horses) fresh from the high pastures, a crucial moment for local breeders who can sell their animals after a season of summer grazing in the surrounding mountains. At 10.30 a.m., it’s time for the presentation of the horse breeds, a real showcase for the diversity and quality of the Pyrenean equine heritage. This is followed at 11.30am by a presentation of the Gasconne des Pyrénées cattle breed, the pride of our region and a symbol of the perfect adaptation of these hardy animals to mountain conditions. These special events give visitors the chance to discover the excellence of Pyrenean livestock farming in an authentic setting, while talking directly to the passionate professionals who are keeping these age-old traditions alive.
prepared by the caterer “Saveurs, Nature et Traditions”, which features local produce from the Pyrenees. The full menu at €23 (€12 for children) includes a salad of gizzards and bacon as a starter, followed by the main course of pork on the spit with parsley potatoes, then local cheese and to finish off a delicious blueberry pie with custard, all washed down with local wine and coffee included. This convivial gastronomic break celebrates the authentic flavours of our mountains and offers a great opportunity for producers and visitors to chat.
The departmental draught horse competition kicks off at 2pm, bringing together the finest examples of these powerful and elegant breeds, living witnesses to the Pyrenees’ agricultural heritage. At 4.30pm, it’s time for the ewe competition, followed by the prize-giving ceremony, a solemn occasion that rewards the excellence of local sheep farming and brings these competitions to a traditional close. At the same time, enjoy a rich programme of free events throughout the day: Stroll through the farmers’ market selling farmhouse cheeses, traditional charcuterie and Pyrenean honey, watch the fascinating sheep-shearing demonstrations by experienced professionals, admire the remarkable work of the herding dogs in their complicity with the shepherds, discover the animal exhibition (cattle, sheep, heavy horses, pigs), and let the children have fun with the pony rides and games specially designed for them.
With a concert by the group Tonton Billy, who will liven up the end of the day in a typically Pyrenean festive and family atmosphere. The perfect musical conclusion to the day’s festivities, this concert will extend the convivial spirit of the day under the stars, creating unforgettable memories for all the family. Fast food will be provided by the breeders themselves throughout the evening, offering the opportunity to sample local specialities in a relaxed and warm atmosphere. This exceptional day, organised with passion by the Haute-Garonne Chamber of Agriculture and the Luchonnais breeders, with the support of the Town Hall, the Communauté de communes des Pyrénées Haut-Garonnaises and the Conseil Département, celebrates the richness of the Pyrenean pastoral tradition in a true spirit of conviviality and sharing between generations, perpetuating the authentic soul of our mountains.
