Manigod Sheep Fair 2026: the cantonal sheep and goat fair on Sunday, October 25

At a glance

When? Sunday, October 25, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Where? In the main village of Manigod (74230), in the Aravis range.
How much? Free admission.
Don’t miss: the sheep and goat contests, sheep-shearing demonstrations, the herding dog contest and the petting farm.

In late October, when the flocks have come down from the mountain pastures, Manigod brings together sheep and goat farmers from the Thônes valley for its canton fair. On Sunday, October 25, 2026, this small village in the Aravis comes alive with bleating, contests and demonstrations. An authentic day that brings the autumn fair season in Haute-Savoie to a wonderful close.

Sommaire

The canton sheep and goat fair, an Aravis tradition

Organized by the Sheep Fair Committee, an association founded in 1981, the canton fair brings together sheep and goat farmers from the Thônes canton every autumn. It is an opportunity for them to present their finest animals, share their passion and introduce visitors to a side of mountain farming that often goes unnoticed.

Although cows take center stage in the Aravis, the birthplace of Reblochon, goats and sheep also have a long history here. Goats produce chevrotin, an AOP-protected cheese made from goat’s milk that is emblematic of the mountain range. Sheep, meanwhile, graze the steepest slopes and provide wool and meat.

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The program for the 2026 Manigod Sheep Fair

Contests and demonstrations

Highlights throughout the day include:

the contest for the finest breeds of sheep and goats, where farmers present their animals to the judges;
sheep-shearing demonstrations, a spectacular skill to watch up close;
a herding dog contest, showcasing the close bond between shepherd and dog.

The producers’ and artisans’ market

Nearly 25 vendors set up a small producers’ and artisans’ market in the heart of the village. You’ll find cheeses, cured meats, crêpes and roasted chestnuts, as well as wool products, livestock bells, jewelry and basket-making demonstrations.

Activities for children

There is plenty for younger visitors too: a petting farm lets them get close to the animals, and free inflatables are set up for the day.

Lunch and refreshments

Lunch is served at the community hall, and the refreshment stand is run by the sheep and goat farmers themselves. It’s a chance to chat with the farmers over a drink.

Enjoy a day in Manigod

An unspoiled village in the Aravis

Nestled between Thônes and the Col de la Croix-Fry and Col de Merdassier mountain passes, Manigod has retained its character as a mountain village, with its old chalets, scattered hamlets and green valley. In October, the forests take on their autumn colors: a stroll after the fair, toward the hamlets or in the direction of the Col de la Croix-Fry, is the perfect way to round off the day.

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On the same day in Haute-Savoie

Sunday, October 25 is a busy day for fairs across the département. If you have time, the Foire Froide de Sallanches is being held the same weekend in the Mont Blanc area.

Practical information

Dates, times and admission

Date: Sunday, October 25, 2026
Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Admission: free (lunch and refreshments are paid)
Location: Manigod village, 74230 Manigod

Getting there and parking

Manigod is about a 15-minute drive from Thônes along the road to the Col de la Croix-Fry. Parking near the fair is limited: the tourist office strongly recommends carpooling. Plan to arrive early to find a parking space.