The markets and country fairs of La Manche

Traditional, organic, summer and night markets and big country fairs: the unmissable events in La Manche!
Photo
Photo, © Aymeric Picot

With local produce, crafts, seasonal delicacies, and much more, the markets and country fairs of La Manche are the place to be. Whether in towns or on farms, organic or traditional, in summer or at night, take time to explore the markets, to sample local specialities and to soak up the atmosphere. If you like big events, head to the centuries-old country fairs that celebrate the local agricultural heritage. Grab your basket and we’ll take you on a tour of the best markets and fairs in La Manche.

The big weekly markets in La Manche

Lots of different markets are held all over la Manche throughout the week, and each market has its own atmosphere.In the heart of a lively town centre, at the foot of an unmissable church, a stone’s throw from the beach, or in a market hall, there’s something for everyone. On the stalls, you’ll find all the best local products. Why not indulge in one of the many takeaway dishes as a treat after filling your basket? In the summer season, most of the markets host events, demonstrations and exhibitions.

The essensial markets

Photo
Photo, © Xavier Lachenaud
  • Photo
    Photo, © Xavier Lachenaud
  • Photo
    Photo, © Aymeric Picot
  • Photo
    Photo, © Aymeric Picot
  • Photo
    Photo, © Aymeric Picot

Organic town or farm markets

Organic town markets

Coutances : le Bio P’tit Marché

Every Tuesday from 4.30 p.m. to 7.00 p.m., the Bio P’tit Marché is held on Place de la Poissonnerie in Coutances. You’ll find a dozen organic producers waiting to show you their produce.

Granville : le marché bio

Every Tuesday afternoon from 4.30pm to 7pm, an organic market takes place over Jonville.

Quibou and the Collectif Bio Quibois

The Collectif Bio Quibois, the idea of Antoine Desvages, a market gardener, includes a number of producers committed to organic farming. Together, they have set up this organic market held on Thursdays in Quibou from 4.00 p.m. to 7.00 p.m.

Photo
Photo, © Xavier Lachenaud

Organic farm markets

La ferme de la Chèvre-Rit in Granville

Every Wednesday from 5.00 p.m. to 7.30 p.m., head to the Chèvre-Rit farm in Granville to sample its delicious goat cheeses, as well as fruit and vegetables and organic bread, and to enjoy its family-friendly atmosphere.

La Cabane penchée in Saint-Lô

In this cabin, an enthusiastic group of organic producers gets together every Tuesday and Friday from 4.00 p.m. to 7.00 p.m., offering a whole range of local produce: meat, bread, eggs, fruit and vegetables. You can also tuck into tasty crêpes and galettes on Tuesdays.

In la Manche, the producers are dynamic and committed, and you’ll find plenty of other organic markets in towns and on farms. For more information, ask at your nearest tourist office or contact the producers’ groups.

Photo
Photo, © Chèvre Rit

Summer and night markets

In summer, you’ll find several seasonal markets throughout la Manche. Fill your basket with colourful and tasty produce for a real summer feeling. Make the most of the long summer evenings with a stroll around a night market as the sun goes down.

Les Virées du terroir in Saint-Lô 

Head to Saint-Lô where the Virées du Terroir market is held every Thursday in summer, bringing together local producers and vendors, and regular live bands. This vibrant market by the river Vire will get your tastebuds tingling. Browse the stalls and pick your favourite street food, washed down with a cold beer or cider made in La Manche!
From June to September, every Thursday from 4.30 p.m. to 9.00 p.m at the Plage Verte.

Le marché du Château in Regnéville-sur-Mer

On Friday evenings in July and August, the superb château in Regnéville is transformed for a few hours into a festive gourmet market. Between the old stone walls, meet the producers and sample their local delicacies while enjoying a concert. As a bonus, enjoy the panoramic view of Regnéville inlet with live music playing in the background.

The summer markets in Barneville-Carteret

In the pretty seaside resort of Barneville-Carteret, several markets are held in summer. Head to Barneville-Plage on Sundays from 8.00 a.m. to 2.00 p.m. for a market right by the sea. As the sun goes down, why not browse the stalls at the Nocturnes de Barneville night market? On Tuesday evenings, you’ll find local produce, crafts, street theatre and live music: a wonderful family-friendly market for you to explore.
There are lots of other night markets in La Manche. Ask at the tourist office near where you’re staying for more information.

  • Photo
    Photo: Barneville-Carteret© Captain Yvon
  • Photo
    Photo: Château de Regnéville-sur-Mer© Xavier Lachenaud

Centuries-old country fairs

An important part of the local heritage here for centuries, the famous country fairs are held in different parts of La Manche every year. With produce from the area, local animal breeds, competitions and demonstrations, for several days the fairs put the spotlight on the agricultural traditions of La Manche.

The Sainte-Croix Fair

Lessay

Every year on the second weekend in September, Lessay is transformed to host its centuries-old country fair. The Sainte-Croix Fair in Lessay is the biggest in Normandy and stretches over 32 hectares. Be sure to visit its famous “rotisserie alley” and grab some tasty food!

The Saint-Luc Fair

Gavray

An event not to be missed in autumn in La Manche, the centuries-old Saint-Luc Fair in Gavray is held in mid-October. The horse fair on Friday is well worth a look, along with the surprising pumpkin fair.

The Saint-Martin Fair

Saint-Hilaire-du-Harcouët

For three days, the town is taken over by this centuries-old country fair that pays tribute to the local traditions. With a cattle and horse fair, breed shows and exhibitions, there are plenty of different events for you to enjoy.

The Saint-Denis Fair

Brix

Every year at the beginning of October, the village of Brix in the north of the Cotentin Peninsula hosts one of the oldest country fairs in Normandy. With horse sales, showjumping and horse driving trials, the fair showcases la Manche as a centre of equestrianism.

You may be interested in