World's Best Ham by PataNegra.dk

Every spring, the small Basque city of Bayonne turns into a paradise for food lovers. The smell of cured ham mixes with the sea breeze, music fills the narrow cobbled streets, and locals welcome visitors with a smile and a slice of jambon. Next year, from April 23 to 26, 2026, the city will once again host the legendary Foire au Jambon de Bayonne, one of France’s oldest and most beloved food festivals. A Tradition Older Than Time The Bayonne Ham Fair first started in 1462, when local farmers and charcutiers would gather to sell their hams and celebrate the end of winter. Over five centuries later, the event still keeps its soul — it’s not just about eating, but about honoring the craft, the people, and the Basque spirit behind every slice. Now in its 563rd edition, the fair has grown into a four-day feast that brings thousands of visitors from France and beyond. While the heart of it remains the same — celebrating the Jambon de Bayonne, a ham protected by Indication Géographique Protég...

Bayonne Ham The 562nd edition of the Bayonne Ham Fair is quickly approaching, bringing excitement, tradition, and culinary artistry that has been celebrated for centuries. From Thursday, April 10 to Sunday, April 13, 2025, the historic city of Bayonne in the French Basque Country will transform into a lively hub of festivities centered around its iconic Bayonne ham. A key highlight of the fair is the highly anticipated competition for the best farmhouse ham, reserved for passionate individuals who craft their hams with care and dedication. On Thursday morning, April 10, amateur producers will gather at the market square between 7:30 and 8:30 a.m. to impress the esteemed jury. The judges will evaluate each ham based on three crucial criteria: cut, aroma, and drying time. The announcement of the winners at noon is a moment of great anticipation, rewarding months — often years — of meticulous craftsmanship. Last year’s competition saw 26 impressive farmhouse hams presented. Among them, Xi...