A true institution of the Chablais and a major popular event of the department, the Crête Fair dates back to the edicts of the Dukes of Savoy and still stands today as one of the most profitable fairs in France. Established on the Place de Crête in Thonon-les-Bains since 1866, it brings together every first Thursday of September residents, farmers, merchants, and Swiss visitors in a festive and friendly atmosphere, blending agricultural traditions, a giant commercial fair, funfair, and regional specialties.
On the program:
- Agricultural contest & dairy cows: A large dairy cow contest organized in collaboration with the Young Farmers of the cantons of Douvaine, the Gavot plateau, and the Abondance Valley to put agricultural essence at the heart of the celebration.
- Major commercial unpacking: Kilometers of stalls and markets of all kinds invade the city to hunt for bargains, tools, clothing, and handicraft products.
- Big Funfair & marquee: Attractions, rides, and festive evenings (such as the traditional fondue evening under the Portigliati marquee) on the Place de Crête.
- Gourmet customs and local traditions: Improvised restaurants, typical culinary tastings, and unique reunions for a traditional day off (schools closed and half-day off offered by many employers).
Practical information
- Dates:
- The Crête Fair (The Big Thursday): Thursday, September 3, 2026.
- The Funfair: From Saturday, August 29 to Sunday, September 6, 2026.
- Location: Place de Crête, Avenue Léman, and downtown, 74200 Thonon-les-Bains.
- Hours:
- Crête Fair (Thursday 3): From 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM (livestock market starts at 7:30 AM).
- Funfair: Every day from 2:00 PM until late in the evening.
- Prices: Free access to all fair areas (attractions and meals are paid).
- Access and mobility:
- Public transport: Favor the Star’t bus network (reinforced lines on Thursday) and the Léman Express to Thonon station (10 minutes’ walk).
- Free shuttles: Shuttles are arranged on September 3 from major park-and-ride lots on the outskirts (P+R Maison des Sports, Espace Tully).
- Traffic: Several downtown routes are closed to traffic from Wednesday evening; parking downtown is very limited.
- Information: Thonon-les-Bains Tourist Office at 04 50 71 55 55 or Thonon Town Hall.
