Foire de Chatou - National Antiques and Hams Fair (Spring)

A Fair of International Renown

The Foire de Chatou, officially named the National Fair of Antiques and Hams, is without doubt one of the largest and oldest professional gatherings of antique dealers and brocanteurs in France. Held twice a year, in spring (March) and autumn (September-October), by the SNCAO-GA (National Syndicate of Antique, Second-hand, and Art Gallery Trade), it takes place on the iconic Île des Impressionnistes, an exceptional natural setting in the middle of the Seine. The 2026 spring edition, celebrating the fair's 110th edition, is held from March 13 to 22, 2026 and brings together no fewer than 330 professional exhibitors.

Ten Days of High-Level Bargain Hunting

For ten days, the 330 professional antique dealers and brocanteurs display their finest pieces on over 15 hectares: 18th and 19th-century furniture, Art Deco, mid-century modern, master paintings, sculptures, silverware, Sèvres and Limoges porcelain, glassware and crystal, Oriental rugs, designer lighting, antique and collectible jewelry, watchmaking, old books, engravings, curiosities, and collectibles. All exhibitors are members of SNCAO-GA and sponsored by their peers, which ensures a standard of quality and authenticity represented by the Authenticity-Quality label. A free expert appraisal service is also offered on site.

The Île des Impressionnistes, a Mythical Setting

The Foire de Chatou owes part of its charm to the exceptional setting in which it takes place. The Île des Impressionnistes, a mythical place of French painting, is inseparable from the history of Impressionism. It was here that Pierre-Auguste Renoir painted his famous Luncheon of the Boating Party in 1881, at the Maison Fournaise, which still exists and is now a museum. Claude Monet, Alfred Sisley, Gustave Caillebotte, and many other Impressionist painters frequented these banks of the Seine, which inspired so many masterpieces.

A Cultural and Festive Event

Beyond the flea market, the Foire de Chatou is also a popular festival. The event owes its full name to the traditional sale of hams and regional products that historically accompanies it, turning the event into a true gastronomic and cultural celebration. Restaurants, wine bars, regional product stands, and musical entertainment complement the commercial offer and attract a very broad audience. The fair welcomes around 35,000 visitors at each edition.

Practical Information

The Foire de Chatou Spring 2026 takes place from March 13 to 22, 2026 on the Île des Impressionnistes, 78400 Chatou. Professional day on Thursday, March 12, 2026. Hours: 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. daily, last admission at 6 p.m. Paid admission. Free parking under the Pont de Chatou, valet service available. Free shuttle from RER A Rueil-Malmaison station.