The Caïon Festival is ready to enchant the streets of Annecy once again this autumn. This gastronomic event dedicated to pork specialties is a perfect opportunity to gather with family or friends to celebrate together the rich culinary heritage of Savoy.
A flavorful tradition rooted in local history
The term “Caïon,” which designates the pig in the Savoyard patois and in the neighboring Swiss regions, gives its name to this festival that has become essential in the cultural landscape of Annecy. Created in 2015 by Michel Chevallay, a passionate restaurateur, this event is inspired by an ancestral custom where mountain farmers would come down to present their pigs in town. A decade later, this event has established itself as a flagship moment in Annecy’s calendar, combining homage to rural traditions and shared conviviality.
An enticing program for all tastes
Mark the date well: Saturday, November 8, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Notre-Dame Square and Filaterie Street will come alive to the rhythm of this celebration dedicated to the pig, a central element of Savoyard gastronomy.
A festival of authentic flavors
Food lovers will be delighted by the variety of stands offering pork products in all their forms: artisanal blood sausages, cured hams, flavored sausages, tasty diots, traditional pormoniers, spit-roasted pig, smoked andouillettes, and juicy grills. The more adventurous will be able to discover lesser-known specialties such as pig tails, borfate, or atriaux, true treasures of local gastronomy.
The festival also highlights other Savoyard local products: characterful cheeses, sweet and savory rissoles, comforting mulled wine, and freshly pressed bidoyons. Between generous tastings and direct sales by producers and artisans, the event turns the heart of Annecy into a true paradise for epicureans.
Festive activities for young and old
The Caïon Festival is not limited to gustatory pleasures. Throughout the day, the brass band “La Ripaille à Sons” will parade through the streets, creating a joyful and musical atmosphere. One of the highlights will undoubtedly be the famous “Pig’s Cry” contest held at 4 p.m. Participants will compete with imagination to imitate the famous pig grunts, eliciting laughter and applause from the audience. The most talented will leave with generous baskets filled with Savoyard products.
Children are not forgotten: they will be able to approach and pet some pigs placed in specially arranged enclosures, for a moment of tenderness with these animals emblematic of the festival.
A solidarity dimension that gives meaning
Beyond conviviality and gastronomy, the Caïon Festival also carries values of sharing and solidarity. The event actively supports humanitarian projects, notably in Madagascar, through a stand dedicated to the sale of solidarity products and the profits generated by the official poster. A beautiful initiative that enriches the festival with an altruistic dimension, weaving links between local traditions and international aid.
Practical information to fully enjoy the event
The Caïon Festival takes place in the pedestrian zone of Annecy. To get there easily, several options are available to you:
The parking lots at the City Hall, Bonlieu, Saint-Claire, les Romains, or Courier will allow you to park nearby before walking to the festival. In case of heavy attendance, the Marquisats, Petit Port parking lots or the adjacent streets behind the Nouvelles Galeries offer good alternatives.
The Sibra bus network also serves the area from across the Annecy basin. Given the growing popularity of the event, it is recommended to plan your travel in advance to enjoy this festive day peacefully.
With just over a month to go until the event, mark this date in your calendar now so you don’t miss this authentic gathering that passionately celebrates the Savoyard gastronomic heritage!
