February 16, 2012

Salon de l’Agriculture 2012


The annual Salon de l’Agriculture is one of the world’s largest agricultural events and it takes place right here in Paris.  Mark your calendars - it runs from February 25th until March 4th at Paris's Porte de Versailles.  

Google images
Think of it as part state fair, part trade show, and part blue-ribbon competition.  However, if you’re imagining one of those boring, old-fashioned state farm fairs, think again.  Does your state fair have over 650,000 people attend, over 3,000 animals on display, or offer foie gras sandwiches for sale?  I think not.  That’s because this is one of the world’s largest, and most important, agricultural shows.

 The Salon de l’Agriculture is all about featuring the best of France’s farms, farmers, animals, food and drink products, and the agricultural way of life.  The show occupies seven massive halls and is broken down into four aspects: live animals, crops-plants and gardening, gastronomy in France and abroad, and agriculture-related services and businesses.  

from AFP
It’s true when they say it takes days to see the whole thing.  But don't worry, because no matter how much time you have to visit, you will find something for everyone in the family - kids and adults alike.  There is an incredible variety of activities from animal competitions to gardening workshops, and even live traditional music and dance performances. 
from Small Bites




You will discover halls full of animals where the country’s premiere livestock will be on show including cows, sheep, goats, rabbits and more.  You will find an amazing variety of top quality food and drink products by region (meats, sausages, ham, pates, foie gras, cheeses, wine, beer).  And just in time for spring, discover everything related to plants, flowers, gardening and farming.  Plus, you can meet the fascinating people responsible for all of these amazing things.


Check out the event's website in English here:  http://en.salon-agriculture.com/ 

The 2012 International Salon de l’Agriculture will take place from 25 February until the 4th of March at the Paris Porte de Versailles, daily from 9 am to 7 pm.  On Friday, March 2nd, it will be open until 11 pm.  

Be sure to wear comfortable shoes... and go hungry.  

Inspired to learn some new French dishes?  Then check out WICE's next cooking class on March 14th:   French Sausages & Lentils, plus Tarte au Citron Cooking Class


Submitted by Mary O'Leary, WICE cooking course director