Festival returns to Mirepoix

The Mirepoix Apple Festival returns for its 27th edition on October 17 and 18 in the commune of Mirepoix, located in Ariège, which is listed among the Most Beautiful Villages of France. The event turns the medieval town into an open-air celebration of apples and local culture.

Historic setting for the event

Mirepoix, a medieval bastide founded in the 13th century, serves as the backdrop for the festival, with its historic architecture adding to the atmosphere. Free entry is offered, and the event includes a gourmet market, juice pressing, pastry competitions, and displays of ancient apple varieties from the Pyrenean foothills.

Local organization and community involvement

The festival is organized by Mirepoix en Avant, a local association of merchants and residents. Each year, the group brings together producers, artisans, and food enthusiasts from the region. The market runs from 9 am to 6 pm on the cathedral’s parvis and Maréchal Leclerc square, featuring products from the Pyrenean foothills and Ariège.

Showcasing rare apple varieties

A key feature of the festival is the display of ancient apple varieties, some of which have nearly disappeared. Local producers are working to preserve these types, and visitors can taste fresh juices and compare their flavors to the more uniform industrial apples. Demonstrations of traditional apple juice pressing are also a popular attraction.

Pastry competitions and performances

The festival includes pastry competitions open to all participants, with registration required. On Saturday, a cake competition based on apples takes place, with awards at 5 pm, and on Sunday, a tart competition with awards at 4 pm. The orchestra Estevets de monts-ras from Palafrugell performs on Saturday afternoon, and a magic show is scheduled for 4:30 pm.

Family activities and charity event

Family-friendly activities such as balloon rides, face painting, and pony rides are available throughout the weekend. A breast cancer walk of about 5 km is also organized on Saturday, with departures at 9 am, 11 am, and 3 pm. The festival is free to attend, with events running from 9 am to 6 pm on both days.

Travel and post-festival attractions

Mirepoix is approximately one hour and fifteen minutes by car from Toulouse via the A66 and D119 roads. After the festival, visitors can explore the village’s medieval covered areas, the Gothic Saint-Maurice Cathedral, and its historic paved streets.