FÊTE DE L'AIL

While Lectoure celebrates its melon, Saint-Clar pays tribute to its white garlic. The cultivation of this plant, with its inimitable taste and innumerable virtues, remains important to the canton's economy. Every year, on the third Thursday in August, the city takes on a festive atmosphere. The festivities take place in several stages: from 8am to 1pm, it is the traditional market in the city centre where garlic, but not only, is in the spotlight. In the village hall, producers display their garlic braids or real works of art for the most daring. A jury of specialists appreciate the appearance, firmness, perfume, colour... all the senses come into play to elect the best garlic producer of the year. Saint-Clar and its white garlic from Lomagne have a protected geographical indication (PGI) and this honour is no joke. The celebration continues under the hall where a "tuna & mouclade" is served to 1,500 guests. A true local tradition, tickets are quickly filled and reservations must be made in advance. A beautiful convivial celebration that perfectly sums up the spirit of the Southwest.