The Audruicq Agricultural show
The first Agricultural Shows date back to the 18th century
In Audruicq, the first agricultural show took place in 1895. It is still organized fifteen days before Easter.
It is part of a Christian tradition marked by the end of Lent, hence its name “Passion Show” (Comice de la Passion). Breeders took pride in fattening their animals for the occasion, as did butchers who offered the prize-winning animals from the competition to their customers.
An unmissable event
Over the years, the Audruicq Show has made a name for itself throughout the region. In 1953, there were no fewer than 10,000 visitors! To this day, it remains the largest agricultural gathering in the region. And just like the Paris Agricultural Show, it is the place to be seen. Politicians of the moment flock to it… For example, in 1951, Paul ANTIER, Secretary of State for Agriculture, honored the event with his presence and inaugurated it. A noted presence, just like that of Philippe VASSEUR in 1995. Then Minister of Agriculture, he went to Audruicq to celebrate the Show’s centenary. He also addressed the difficulties of the agricultural world in the face of the mad cow crisis.
The early 70s were a pivotal period in the rural world. The advent of new technologies and growing mechanization disrupted habits. At the same time, the number of farmers in the territory dropped inexorably. In 1974, these observations became concrete because, for the first time in the history of this event, equipment exhibitions took precedence over animal exhibitions. Never seen before!
Over time, the Audruicq agricultural show has evolved
You will find equipment exhibitions, animal competitions, crafts, local products, and entertainment for children organized by the OTCI (Vercoutre hall). Shopkeepers take part in the event by decorating their windows in “country colors”. For a weekend, Audruicq mobilizes to live to the rhythm of the show. The event is family-friendly and convivial. For sure, it still has many good years ahead of it.