Apple & Sweet Cévennes Onion Fair 2025: A Crunchy Weekend To Bite Into At Le Vigan
Need a big breath of fresh air... and flavors? Head to Le Vigan on October 18th and 19th for the 31st Apple and Sweet Onion Fair: two days to bite into the Cévennes autumn with gusto!
When the Cévennes hold their autumn market
"31 years of history, that counts. Every October, the alleys of Le Vigan are alive with lilting accents, children's laughter, and the sweet smells of caramelizing onions. The Cévennes Apple & Sweet Onion Fair has become, over time, THE vibrant showcase of a terroir that is both demanding and generous. The 2024 edition has already attracted 15,000 visitors, equivalent to six times the population of Le Vigan! That sets the stage for 2025."
A harsh terroir, gentle flavors: the Cévennes paradox.
Here, crops are grown on steep terraces of shale and granite. No state-of-the-art machinery, but rather calloused hands that plant, hoe, and harvest. The result: a PDO Sweet Onion whose sugar content can reach 8% (while ordinary onions often top out at 5). As for the Reinette du Vigan, its crunchy and slightly tart flesh reminds us that altitude – flirting with 300 meters – is the best ally of apples with character.
Product Focus: The Sweet Onion of the Cévennes PDO
Recognized as a PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) since 2008, the local star appeals to both housewives and Michelin-starred chefs. Its thin skin, its ability to melt without burning, and its almost fruity taste make it a must-have for savory tarte Tatins, creamy soups, or ceviches. Fun fact: 100% of the production is sold out each year, despite an average increase in demand of +6% over the past five years (data from ADOC Syndicate).
The Vigan Reinette: an exclusive apple, XXL pleasure
You hardly know her? That's normal. There are barely 25 hectares of orchards dedicated to this historic variety. Eaten "with a knife" or roasted in the oven with a drizzle of chestnut honey, it reveals a unique aromatic profile – some taste buds even detect a hint of hazelnut. Not to be missed: the 100% Reinette juice, cold-pressed on site, preserving all the vitamins (with vitamin C leading the way).
Saturday, October 18: Gourmet immersion and farm visits
Morning: Guided tours of AOP Pélardon goat farms and discovery of a century-old chestnut grove.
Lunch break: cooking workshops & lacto-fermentation (yes, you get to take home your own jar of pickled onions).
Afternoon: lecture by the National Centre of Pomology, followed by a detour to BG Distillery to smell a gin infused with sweet onion.
Advice: book quickly, as farm visits sell out every year.
Sunday, October 19: the big market & the folk festival
Over 120 exhibitors, a wild brass band ("La Bada Jeff"), culinary demonstrations, and an XXL children's area. The highlight: large communal tables where we share warm Pélardon cheeses, chestnut Pélousses, and caramelized apple-onion tarts. Guaranteed family-friendly atmosphere!
New for 2025: The Living Museum of the Sweet Onion
Forget the dusty shop windows! Here, you touch, smell, and taste. From seed to plate, the sensory journey designed with the Cévenol Museum focuses on interactivity: 'Sowing in Action' at 10 am, 'Onion Delight' at aperitif time, 'Secrets of Sorting' in the middle of the afternoon... Ideal for capturing the attention of children and foodies alike.
Figures that Speak
In 2024, 78% of the visitors came from the Cévennes and 24% from neighboring departments: evidence of a strong regional influence. As for exhibitors, 66% are directly from the agricultural sector – a rare ratio at French fairs (the national average is around 40%). The estimated economic impact is nearly €1 million in direct revenue for hotels, restaurants, and product sales.
Five good reasons not to miss the 2025 edition
- Authenticity: everything is local, from the producer to the plate.
- Non-stop entertainment: concerts, strolling performances, workshops.
- Gentle prices: free entry and complimentary shuttle service from Tessan.
- Kids' area: mini-farm, little adventurer's course, wooden games.
- Selfie spot: panoramic view of the blazing Cévennes terraces.
Practical Information & Last-Minute Tips
Where? Le Vigan (Gard). When? October 18-19, 2025, 9 am-6 pm.
Access: enhanced PRM (Persons with Reduced Mobility) parking on Emmanuel d’Alzon street, free shuttles, motorhome area.
Good to know: bring a canvas bag and some change, as some producers do not yet accept cards.
Note: The AOP (Protected Designation of Origin) label guarantees that the Sweet Onion of the Cévennes is planted, grown, harvested, and packaged within its defined geographical area. True traceability – and preserved flavor.
