A showcase of local expertise
On August 31, the Foire à l’oignon, à l’ail et au boudin broke attendance records.
Thus, the history of this traditional fair continues to be written, between heritage, conviviality, and gastronomy. This year, it attracted an even larger crowd than in previous editions, coming to discover, taste, and stroll among the colorful stalls. Alongside the essential onions, garlic, and black pudding, local producers and artisans offered a wide range of local products and artisanal creations: jams, honey, fruits and vegetables, charcuterie, jewelry, and accessories.
In short, a showcase of local expertise.
The morning was punctuated by the blessing, followed by the procession of the bust of Saint-Maur, carried notably by Max Bauer, president of Allo Agri. A highly emotional moment, in the presence of Hélène Arnaud Bill, mayor of La Garde, and Jean-Louis Masson, president of the Département. The latter recalled the historical importance of this event, the first edition of which took place in 1879: “This year, we are celebrating the 146th edition!
At the time, the fair was a crucial meeting point for peasants and merchants who came to sell their products.” Indeed, for a long time, it was a privileged place for trade at a time when travel was difficult. One could find hardware, tinware, clothing, shoes, and traditional artisans (knife grinder, blacksmith, carpenter) practiced their skills there.
The black pudding, which has become the culinary emblem of the event, owes its success to a recipe born on site. As the mayor explains, “the gardéen sweet onion, grown locally, did not keep well. A pork butcher had the idea of combining it with black pudding, even bringing forward the pig slaughter for the festival.
Thus the tradition was born: black pudding, onions, potatoes, the must-have dish of the fair!
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Photo PRESSE AGENCE.