A comprehensive guide to gourmet evening markets accessible from our tranquil holiday cottage in Frayssinet-le-Gélat
WHAT ARE MARCHÉS GOURMANDS?
Marchés gourmands are quintessential summer evening events in the Lot region where town centers become places of gastronomy and social gathering. These markets feature not only traditional market stalls but also the opportunity to dine on-site, with large communal tables providing a guaranteed festive atmosphere.
For times and locations of regular markets in our region, please check out our local markets of Frayssinet-le-Gélat page.
Key Features:
- Evening markets (typically 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM)
- Seasonal operation (mainly July-August)
- Local food vendors and producers
- On-site dining with communal tables
- Live music and entertainment
- Social atmosphere combining shopping and dining
LOT REGION MARCHÉS GOURMANDS
MONDAY EVENING MARKETS
Cassagnes (5 km, 10 min drive)
- Season: August
- Time: Typically 18:00-22:00
- Special: Marché gourmand (gourmet market)
TUESDAY EVENING MARKETS
Castelfranc (13 km, 15 min drive)
- Season: Summer months (June-September)
- Time: Typically 18:00-22:00
- Special: Marché gourmand & de créateurs (gourmet and artisan market)
WEDNESDAY EVENING MARKETS
Puy l’Évêque (10 km, 15 min drive)
- Season: July-August
- Time: Typically 18:00-22:00
- Special: Local producers and regional specialties
THURSDAY EVENING MARKETS
Loubejac (8 km, 10 min drive)
- Season: July-AugustSummer months
- Time: Typically 18:00-22:00
- Special: Small village atmosphere with local producers
FRIDAY EVENING MARKETS
Montcabrier (12 km, 15 min drive)
- Season: July-August
- Time: Typically 18:00-22:00
- Special: “Les Vendredis Gourmets de Montcabrier” (Gourmet Fridays)
Besse, Dordogne (15 km, 15 min drive)
- Season: July-August
- Time: Typically 18:00-22:00
- Special: Small village atmosphere with local producers
DORDOGNE REGION MARCHÉS GOURMANDS
Sarlat-la-Canéda Area (50 km, 60 min drive)
- Season: July-August
- Various dates: Multiple summer evening markets
- Time: Typically 18:00-22:00
- Special: Tourist-focused with international atmosphere
LOT-ET-GARONNE REGION MARCHÉS GOURMANDS
Villeneuve-de-Duras (60 km, 65 min drive)
- Season: Summer months
- Example Date: July 17, 2025 confirmed
- Time: Typically 18:00-22:00
- Special: Bastide town setting
Pujols (65 km, 70 min drive)
- Season: Summer months
- Time: Typically 18:00-22:00
- Special: One of France’s most beautiful villages
Seasonal Calendar Overview
JUNE
- Markets start opening in early June
- Smaller village markets start first
- Limited selection initially
JULY
- Peak season begins
- All markets typically operational
- Busiest period for tourists
- Confirmed dates include Gramat (July 21)
AUGUST
- Peak season continues
- Highest attendance
- All markets fully operational
- Some markets may have additional dates
SEPTEMBER
- Markets begin closing
- Smaller villages close first
- Weather-dependent continuation
OCTOBER-MAY
- Most gourmet marches closed
- Occasional special events only
- Regular weekly markets continue
Typical Market Schedule
Opening Times: 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM Peak Hours: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM Closing: 10:00 PM – 11:00 PM Music/Entertainment: Usually starts around 8:00 PM
WHAT TO EXPECT
Food Vendors Typically Include:
- Local farmers with seasonal produce
- Artisan cheese makers
- Wine producers offering tastings
- Prepared food stalls (grilled meats, regional dishes)
- Dessert and pastry vendors
- Local honey and preserves
- Artisan bread bakers
Dining Experience:
- Large communal tables (bring your own plates/cutlery or rent on-site)
- BYOB wine policy (buy from market vendors)
- Mix of locals and tourists
- Family-friendly atmosphere
- Live music or entertainment
Typical Costs:
- Food portions: €5-15
- Wine: €3-8 per glass
- Complete meal: €15-25 per person
- Most vendors accept CASH and sometimes cards
PLANNING TIPS
Best Strategy:
- Arrive early (5:00 PM – 6:00 PM) to secure seating
- Browse all vendors before purchasing
- Bring cash for smaller vendors
- Consider bringing your own plates/cutlery/glasses
- Check weather forecasts (outdoor events)
What to Bring:
- Cash and cards
- Light jacket (evenings can be cool)
- Camera for the atmosphere
- Appetite for local specialties
Language:
- Basic French helpful but not essential
- Vendors often patient with tourists
- Food is a universal language
IMPORTANT NOTES
⚠️ Schedule Variations:
- Dates can change due to weather or local events
- Some markets may be canceled during poor weather
- It’s recommended to confirm with local tourist offices
- Private events may occasionally replace public markets
⚠️ Seasonal Nature:
- Marchés gourmands are primarily summer events
- Most operate July-August only
- Peak season is July-August
- Weather-dependent operations
⚠️ Parking:
- Popular markets fill up quickly
- Arrive early for best parking
- Some villages have limited parking
- Consider carpooling for distant markets
CONTACT INFORMATION
Local Tourist Offices:
- Office de Tourisme Cahors: +33 5 65 53 20 65
- Office de Tourisme du Lot: +33 5 65 35 07 09
- Dordogne Tourism: +33 5 53 35 50 24
Websites for Updates:
Note: This guide provides general information. Specific dates, times, and participating vendors may vary annually. Always confirm current information with local tourist offices before making special trips.
