46th “Mushrooms and Fall Plants” Fair

On October 17 and 18, 2026, the Montpellier School of Pharmacy hosted the 46th edition of the Autumn Mushrooms and Plants Fair, organized in partnership with the Hérault Society of Horticulture and Natural History (SHHNH) and the School’s Laboratory of Botany, Phytochemistry, and Mycology.

More than 200 fresh mushrooms and more than 200 wild plants from the region were displayed to the public. Identification workshops allowed visitors to learn how to recognize different species, while games and quizzes raised their awareness of the similarities between edible mushrooms and toxic—or even deadly—species.

The fair also offered an exploration of the diversity of insects and a rock exhibition focusing on the evolution of the Mediterranean coastline and changes in sea level over time.

Two lectures rounded out the program, covering the relationship between orchids and fungi as well as the legal framework governing mushroom picking. Visitors were also able to enjoy free guided tours of the Albert-Ciurana Pharmacy Museum.

This event once again demonstrated the value of science outreach in helping people discover the richness of the natural world, share knowledge, and raise awareness about biodiversity issues, as well as the precautions needed when foraging for mushrooms.