Foire aux Tourteaux and Flea Market of Mirande

The Foire aux Tourteaux de Mirande: a living Gascon tradition

Every year around Easter, Mirande (32300), sub-prefecture of Gers and historical capital of Astarac, celebrates the tourteau, this emblematic rustic brioche of Gascon gastronomy. The Foire aux Tourteaux unfolds over three days in the streets of the bastide, combining culinary competition, flea market, car boot sale, local producers' market and entertainment for the whole family.

The tourteau, a peasant brioche from Astarac

The tourteau is a traditional brioche from Astarac, made from sourdough-enriched bread dough with eggs, butter, sugar, and flavorings. Its origin dates back to the peasants who, to improve ordinary Sunday bread, added eggs and butter. This specialty reached its peak at the beginning of the 20th century, when people came by train from Auch for the grand Easter market of the sub-prefecture. After decades of neglect, the tourteau made a strong comeback thanks to the Confrérie du Tourteau and the competition established in 1991.

The tourteau competition since 1991

The first tourteau competition took place in 1991, on an idea by Denis Verdier, then a member of the Mirande festival committee. The objective: to save this local culinary tradition from oblivion. The tourteau must adhere to strict rules: round shape, maximum weight of 600 grams, sourdough preparation with traditional ingredients. On Easter Monday, a jury tastes and rewards the best tourteaux, in a festive and gourmet atmosphere.

Flea market and car boot sale in the bastide

The Foire aux Tourteaux is accompanied by a large flea market and car boot sale that take over the streets and squares of the Mirande bastide. Exhibitors offer antique furniture, tableware, trinkets, tools, books, collectibles. The local producers' market complements the offer, with foie gras, magret, cheeses, Côtes-de-Gascogne wines, and Armagnac.

Mirande, bastide and capital of Astarac

Mirande (32300) is a bastide founded in the 13th century, sub-prefecture of Gers and historical seat of the Astarac region. The town retains a typical checkerboard plan of bastides, with its arcaded square, its covered walkways, and its Sainte-Marie church. Mirande is also known for hosting the Country Festival in July, one of the largest country gatherings in Europe.