Tous Paysans Fair returns in Alençon

The sixth edition of the Tous Paysans Fair will open on Saturday, October 24, and Sunday, October 25, at the Anova exhibition park in Alençon. This event brings together animal breeders and enthusiasts for a weekend of competitions and displays.

Animal competitions return after a break

Cattle competitions are making a comeback after being canceled in 2025 due to bovine contagious dermatosis, a skin disease affecting cattle. Organizers expect 10,000 visitors to attend the fair, which has seen increased activity with animals being moved into the exhibition park in recent days.

Focus on poultry this year

This year's fair features a rabbit on the poster, highlighting the emphasis on poultry. Organizers plan to showcase 1,800 poultry specimens, up from 500 in previous years. The goal is to celebrate the diversity of poultry breeds and promote their preservation.

Competitions and breeders from across France

More than 130 breeders from 36 departments will compete in four French championships, two French cups, and twelve regional championships. This is a significant event for the Orne Poultry Society, which is celebrating its 100th anniversary with the largest gathering of poultry in its history.

Cattle competitions expand

Over 400 cattle from more than 100 farms will participate in various competitions. This includes the first-ever regional Salers competition, which will take place in a newly set up outdoor ring. Approximately 40 Salers breed animals from 11 Norman farms will compete.

Breeders show enthusiasm despite challenges

Despite a difficult year marked by drought and international tensions, breeders have shown strong interest in participating. This enthusiasm is reflected in the willingness of many breeders, who are not necessarily farmers, to take part in the competitions.

New competition for young presenters

A new feature of this year's fair is the young presenters competition in beef breeds. This aims to demonstrate that beef breeds can be handled by children, similar to previous competitions for dairy breeds. A total of 90 young people will compete in the dairy breed category and 25 in the beef breed category.

Competition schedule for Saturday and Sunday

Saturday’s events include departmental finals for cattle judging, inter-departmental Charolais and Blonde d'Aquitaine competitions, and the Normandy competition. Sunday will feature the young presenters competition, the regional Salers competition, the departmental Prim'Holstein competition, and a children’s parade.