In brief
- When? Sunday, October 11, 2026, from 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
- Where? In the streets of downtown La Roche-sur-Foron (74800).
- How much? Free admission.
- Don’t miss: the cattle breed competition, draft horses, the mini farm, the producers’ village and more than 100 exhibitors.
Every second weekend in October, La Roche-sur-Foron revives one of its oldest traditions: the Foire de la Saint-Denis. On Sunday, October 11, 2026, the medieval town in the Pays rochois welcomes farmers, producers, merchants and families for a full day combining agriculture, local heritage and popular festivities. Here’s the program and all the practical information you need to enjoy the event.
The Foire de la Saint-Denis, a historic event in the Pays rochois
Saint-Denis is celebrated on October 9, and for generations La Roche-sur-Foron has held its autumn fair around this date. Originally, it was a livestock fair where farmers from Faucigny and Genevois came to sell their animals after the alpine pasture season. Today, the fair has retained its agricultural spirit while becoming a major village celebration that takes over the entire town center.
The event is especially eagerly awaited because it has been canceled in the past: the 2020 edition was called off due to the health crisis. Since then, the fair has welcomed its crowds back, with more than a hundred exhibitors at recent editions.
Read also: Autumn fairs in Haute-Savoie in 2026
The program for the 2026 Foire de la Saint-Denis
The agricultural area, the heart of the fair
True to its roots, the fair gives plenty of space to the agricultural world. The program includes:
- a cattle breed competition, offering the chance to admire the finest cows from farms in the region;
- draft horses;
- an exhibition of vintage tractors and agricultural equipment;
- a mini farm where younger visitors can meet the animals.
The producers’ village
Local farmers come together in a producers’ village dedicated to short supply chains. Cheese, cured meats, honey, farm produce: it’s the perfect time to stock up on local products before winter. Producers also contribute prizes to the fair’s raffle.
Merchants, exhibitors and flea market
Merchants from La Roche-sur-Foron and more than a hundred exhibitors set up their stalls in the town center streets, offering crafts, clothing, home goods, local products and more. According to the local press, the 2026 edition will also feature a flea market for private individuals, a new addition for fans of vintage finds.
Entertainment, music and food
Families can enjoy a children’s area with wooden games and a variety of activities. Refreshments and food are available throughout the day, and musical entertainment with a DJ keeps the festive atmosphere going until late afternoon.
Read also: Abondance breed competition in Megève on October 11, 2026
Make the most of your day in La Roche-sur-Foron
Explore the old town
The fair is also a chance to discover La Roche-sur-Foron, one of the oldest towns in Haute-Savoie. Between stalls, head up to the old town and the Tower of the Counts of Geneva: the views over the historic center and surrounding mountains are well worth the trip. The cobbled lanes, old houses and arcades make for a very pleasant stroll.
Our tips for a great visit
- Arrive in the morning to see the animals and competition before the midday crowds arrive.
- Wear comfortable shoes: the fair covers a large part of the town center.
- Bring a shopping bag for products from the producers’ village.
- Choose the train or carpooling: the town center is closed to traffic during the fair.
Practical information
Dates, times and admission
- Date: Sunday, October 11, 2026
- Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.
- Admission: free
- Location: town center, 74800 La Roche-sur-Foron
Getting there and parking
By car, La Roche-sur-Foron is accessible via the A410 motorway (exit no. 19, La Roche-sur-Foron). As the town center is reserved for the fair, use the parking lots on the outskirts. By train, La Roche-sur-Foron station, served by TER and the Léman Express, is just a few minutes’ walk from the center.
Information
La Roche-sur-Foron Town Hall, 1 place de l’Hôtel de Ville, 74800 La Roche-sur-Foron – website: larochesurforon.fr. Pays rochois Tourist Office.
Read also: What to do in Haute-Savoie on the weekend of October 10 and 11, 2026
FAQ: Foire de la Saint-Denis in La Roche-sur-Foron
When is the 2026 Foire de la Saint-Denis?
The Foire de la Saint-Denis takes place on Sunday, October 11, 2026, from 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. in the town center of La Roche-sur-Foron.
Is the Foire de la Saint-Denis free?
Yes, admission to the fair and its activities is free. Only food, refreshments and purchases from the stalls are charged.
Are there animals at the Foire de la Saint-Denis?
Yes: the fair features a cattle breed competition, draft horses and a mini farm that delights children.
Where can I park for the Foire de la Saint-Denis?
The fair takes over the town center: park in the lots on the outskirts or take the train, as La Roche-sur-Foron station is close to the center.
