The Le Mans Fair is an unmissable event in the autumn of Sarthe. Every year, in September, the Le Mans Exhibition Center opens its doors for five days of shopping, discoveries and activities for all ages. In 2026, the 89th edition will take place from Thursday 10 to Monday 14 September, with a theme that promises to take off the imagination: Space Adventure.
When does the 2026 Le Mans Fair take place?
The 2026 Le Mans Fair takes place from Thursday 10 to Monday 14 September 2026, i.e. five consecutive days. Since 1929, the fair has always been held from the second Thursday in September. It is a tradition that has continued for almost a century, with the notable exception of the Second World War and the Covid crisis in 2020.
Where does the fair take place?
The Le Mans Exhibition Center, located at 1, Avenue du Parc des Expositions (72100 Le Mans), covers more than 40,000 m² of covered area, to which are added outdoor spaces. It is one of the largest exhibition centers in Western France.
The 2026 theme: Space Adventure
Each year, the Foire du Mans adopts a central theme that sets the tone for events and decorations. In 2026, head for the stars with “The Space Adventure — Heading to Infinity and Beyond! ”
On the agenda for this theme:
Two exhibitions at the Cité de l'Espace in Toulouse: From Earth to the Stars and Comets, visible throughout the duration of the fair.
Planetarium and observation sessions led by the University of Maine Astronomy Club, with telescopes and explanations for young and old.
The Western Jedi Association — for fans of Star Wars, costumes, animations and an immersion in the saga.
Program and entertainment
Les Aperos'Zik
Successfully repeated since their launch, the Aperos'Zik are festive concerts organized directly in the aisles of the fair, from September 10 to 14. An eclectic program, designed to accompany the stroll between the stands, in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere.
The Little Train
A classic at the fair: the free little train runs on the site every day, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and then from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Convenient for families with young children, or simply for taking a breath between two stands.
Agricultural Space and breeding competitions
The Le Mans Fair has not forgotten its rural roots. Each year, the Agricultural Space welcomes more than 1,000 animals from the best farms in the region. In 2026, the competitions focused on the Charolaise, Montbeliarde, Prim'Holstein breeds and Maine blue sheep breeds. Sheep shearing demonstrations are also planned — a space popular with children, who are often amazed by their first contact with cows, ewes and show bulls.
The Wine and Gastronomy Area
Regional wines, cheeses, charcuteries, specialties from all over France: the Gastronomy Area is a must. Local producers rub shoulders with artisans from all over France. Ideal for making supplies and preparing a nice tray for the new school year.
Which exhibitors at the Foire du Mans?
Each year, the fair brings together around 470 exhibitors, two-thirds of whom are companies from Sarthe. The sectors represented cover most of the daily needs:
Housing and renovation: carpentry, insulation, verandas, kitchens, bathrooms
Bedding and furniture: mattresses, sofas, custom furniture
Interior decoration: lighting, textiles, decorative objects
Cars and motorcycles: dealerships, accessories, maintenance
Agriculture and construction: agricultural equipment, tractors, professional tools
Well-being and health: optics, hearing aids, natural cosmetics
Gastronomy: wines, delicatessen, regional products
Innovation and high-tech: home automation, solar panels, charging stations
Crafts: jewelry, crafts, live demonstrations
Opening hours
Timetable Thursday September 10 9:30 — 18:00 Friday September 11 9:30 — 18:00 Friday September 11 9:30 — 18:00 Friday Friday September 11 9:30 — 18:00 Friday September 11 9:30 — 20:00 Friday September 11 9:30 — 20:00 Monday September 14 9:30 — 20:00 Monday September 14 9:30 — 18:00
The evenings on Friday and Saturday create a special atmosphere in the alleys: concerts, lighting, catering — the fair turns into a festive evening after 7 pm.
Entry prices
Public Adult rate (Friday, Saturday, Sunday) €5.50 Student/job seeker €3.50 Children under 12 Free PMR + Free chaperThursday and Monday Free Thursday and Monday Free Friday-Saturday nights (after 19:00) Free
Good news: three of the five days are completely free, or in the evening. For families, a visit on Thursday or Monday represents an outing without paying a single euro in.
How do I get to the Foire du Mans?
By car
The Exhibition Center is easily accessible from the A11 (Le Mans Ouest) and the A28. Free car parks are available around the site (Parking Rouge, Blanc, Bleu, Actisud, ACO). Free shuttles connect the White, Blue and West car parks to Gate 1 of the Exhibition Center.
By bus
Line 5 of the Setram network serves the fair directly (Oasis stop). It is the ideal option on weekends, when the car parks are saturated. Schedules on setram.fr.
Please note: dogs kept on a leash are allowed. No cash machine on site — bring cash or your card Mobile application available (iOS and Android) to find your way around the aisles.
5 tips to prepare for your visit
1. Come on Thursday or Monday if you avoid the crowds. Admission is free, and attendance is much lower at the weekend. Ideal for taking the time to visit each stand.
2. Enjoy the evenings on Friday and Saturday. After 19:00 admission is free. The atmosphere is changing, the concerts are in full swing, and the aisles keep a reasonable flow. A great option to combine dinner in the city and an evening at the fair.
3. Allow plenty of time. With 470 exhibitors spread over 40,000 m², it easily takes 3 to 4 hours to explore the entire site. Many visitors come back for two days.
4. Come by bus on the weekend. Especially on Saturdays, car parks reach their limits as early as 10:30am. Line 5 Setram drops you off directly in front of the entrance.
5. Don't miss the Agricultural Space. Often forgotten by first-time visitors in favor of commercial halls, it is one of the most impressive in Western France. Breeding competitions generally take place at the beginning of the day.
A bit of history: 190 years of Sarthoise fairs
The Foire du Mans carries nearly two centuries of Sarthe history of Sarthe. It all started in 1836 with the first “Exhibition of Arts and Industry Products”, organized on the premises of the prefecture for an entire month.
The decisive turning point came on September 12, 1929, with the launch of the “4-Day Fair” in a modern format: 65 exhibitors, a sale, Breton artists. It is the direct ancestor of the current fair. In 1969, the fair moved permanently to the Exhibition Center, on a 22-hectare site. In 1983, it reached its historic record with 850 exhibitors. Today, the fair maintains an attendance of 100,000 to 145,000 visitors depending on the edition.
Where to sleep during the Le Mans Fair?
If you are coming from outside the department — or if you plan to enjoy the evenings without worrying about returning — it is best to book your accommodation in advance. Hotels in the city center are often fully booked during major dates in Sarthe.
Chez Béranger, located in the heart of Le Mans, a few minutes' walk away from Vieux-Mans, offers a charming apartment ideal for an extended stay. A comfortable base for exploring the fair at your own pace, without the hassle of parking or a hasty return.
Frequently asked questions about the 2026 Le Mans Fair
When is the 2026 Le Mans Fair?
From Thursday 10 to Monday 14 September 2026, at the Le Mans Exhibition Center.
What is the theme of the 2026 Le Mans Fair?
The Space Adventure, with exhibitions from the Cité de l'Espace in Toulouse, a planetarium and Star Wars animations.
Is the Le Mans Fair free?
Admission is free on Thursday and Monday. It is also free on Fridays and Saturdays after 7pm. The other slots cost €5.50 for adults. Children under 12 always get in for free.
How do I go to the Foire du Mans without a car?
Line 5 of the Setram network serves the site directly (Oasis stop). Free shuttles from some car parks.
Are there animals at the Foire du Mans?
Yes, the Agricultural Space generally hosts more than 1,000 farm animals, with competitions on several cattle and sheep breeds.
Are dogs allowed at the Foire du Mans?
Yes, dogs on a leash are allowed on the site.