Car boot sale of Bompas

The Bompas Car Boot Sale: National Day Celebrated with Bargains

In the commune of Bompas (09500), the Festival Committee upholds a well-established tradition every July 14th: the annual car boot sale under the village marquee. This joyful event, which takes place from 8 am to 6 pm, happily blends the festive spirit of National Day with the popular pleasure of treasure hunting among neighbors and visitors.

Bompas, a Commune in the Pays d'Olmes

Bompas is a commune in the Pays d'Olmes, in eastern Ariège, located between Foix and Lavelanet. This geographical area, named after the Olme valley, a tributary of the Ariège River, is characterized by its green hills, traditional villages, and remarkable Cathar heritage. The commune of Bompas shares an active associative fabric with its neighbors, of which the Festival Committee is the main pillar.

The Pays d'Olmes is also known for its industrial heritage related to the textile industry (wool combing) that marked the local economy in the 19th and 20th centuries, particularly in Lavelanet. Today, the transition towards green tourism and the valorization of Cathar heritage (castles of Montségur, Roquefixade) is an important development axis.

The Marquee: A Festive Setting for Treasure Hunting

The car boot sale is held under the village marquee, a covered space that allows the event to take place regardless of the weather. This setting is particularly appreciated for mid-July events, as summer storms can quickly occur in the Pyrenean foothills. Exhibitors and visitors can thus browse the stalls in optimal comfort, even if the sky looks threatening.

The stalls offer a varied selection of items: clothing for adults and children, decorative trinkets, tableware, books, toys, and household items. The friendly and festive atmosphere of July 14th adds a special dimension to this day of treasure hunting.

Exhibitor Fees and Catering

Pitches are available at an affordable rate: €6 for a 3-meter space, with an additional €2 per meter beyond that. This modest fee encourages participation from individuals wishing to clear out their attics. For information and registration, Aline can be reached at 06 67 23 47 64.

The Festival Committee also offers on-site catering with homemade dishes: mixed salad and toro sausage (bull sausage), a southern specialty, at affordable prices. This catering service helps transform the car boot sale into a truly festive day where friends and neighbors gather.

National Day in Ariège

In Ariège, July 14th is celebrated with the enthusiasm characteristic of southern cultures. Popular dances, fireworks, and local events liven up the communes throughout the department. The Bompas car boot sale is part of this festive program, offering residents a popular and friendly activity during the day, before the traditional evening festivities.