Carnaval de Cachan

The Carnaval de Cachan: The ENS City Festival

The Carnaval de Cachan is a beloved popular festival that brings the Cachan community together every spring. Known for hosting the Brittany campus of ENS Paris-Saclay and for its educational dynamism, Cachan expresses another facet of its personality in its carnival: festive, creative, and popular.

A Festive Parade in the City Center

The Carnaval de Cachan parade winds through the main streets of the city, from the vicinity of the town hall or Place Louis Georgeon, to the squares and esplanades of the city center where the final gathering takes place. The procession includes decorated floats by associations and schools, brass bands with cheerful horns, batucadas, dance troupes, and costumed participants.

Cachan's proximity to Arcueil sometimes creates festive synergies between the two municipalities, with associations and groups participating in the carnivals of both cities. The border between Cachan and Arcueil is indeed porous in daily life, the main street connecting the two city centers being shared between the two municipalities.

Diversity and Creativity

Cachan is a cosmopolitan city, and its carnival reflects this. Associations from various Cachan communities bring their costumes and music to the parade, creating a festive and colorful mix. The student community and teachers' families also contribute to the carnival's creative richness, bringing original costumes and unexpected entertainment.

Children and Families

The Carnaval de Cachan is above all a festival for families. Nursery and primary schools participate massively in the parade with their costumed groups. Face painting workshops, puppet shows, and outdoor games are organized for the youngest. The city ensures that the event is accessible and enjoyable for all ages.

Friendly Finale

The day concludes with a festive gathering featuring music, entertainment, and the traditional burning of the Winter Man. Refreshment stands run by associations and food stalls allow the enjoyment of the festival to continue in a spirit of shared conviviality.