The Saint-Ours fair
Two days in January when the craftspeople of the Aosta Valley take over Aosta
On 30 and 31 January, the centre of Aosta fills up with stalls. This is the Saint-Ours fair, the great fair of Aosta Valley crafts. It has existed since the Middle Ages and is said to be more than a thousand years old. Every year, it attracts thousands of visitors.
What you find on the stalls
For two days, craftspeople fill the streets of the old town. They sell what they have made during the year, often with materials from the valley.
- Wood. Carvings, but also useful objects for the home and the farm.
- Wrought iron. The blacksmiths offer everything from a simple hook to an elaborate gate.
- Lace. You can see the valley’s fine lace, such as that of the Cogne lacemakers.
- Clogs. These wooden shoes were once worn every day. Today, people mostly buy them as collectors’ items.
- Basketwork. Wicker baskets of all kinds.
Watching the craftspeople at work
Some craftspeople work on the spot. You can watch them carving wood or forging, and ask them about their technique. It is also a chance to buy a piece directly from the person who made it, and to leave with an object made in the valley.
The fair is also a festival. People eat and taste local produce, such as fontina, a cooked, pressed cheese, or lard d’Arnad. There are street performances, traditional music and games for children.
Dates and access
- Dates: 30 and 31 January
- Place: Aosta old town
- Admission: free
