Carnaval de Maisons-Alfort

The Carnaval de Maisons-Alfort: The Popular Festival of the Town of Two Rivers

The Carnaval de Maisons-Alfort is a must-attend festive event in this town in the Val-de-Marne, located at the confluence of the Seine and the Marne. Known for its National Veterinary School and its riverbanks, Maisons-Alfort transforms every spring to host a popular carnival that brings the entire Maisons-Alfort community together.

A Festive Parade Through the Town

The Carnaval de Maisons-Alfort parade generally starts from the vicinity of the town hall or Place du Général de Gaulle and travels through the main streets of the town. The procession includes decorated floats created by local associations and school groups, joyful brass bands, percussion groups, dance troupes, and hundreds of costumed participants.

The carnival themes vary from one edition to the next, encouraging creativity: animal worlds (a nod to the Veterinary School), fairy tales and legends, imaginary worlds, global cultures, or seasons. These themes guide the creation of costumes and float decorations in preparatory workshops organized by community centers and associations.

The Veterinary School in the Carnival

The presence of the National Veterinary School of Alfort, one of the oldest and most reputable in the world, sometimes gives the Carnaval de Maisons-Alfort a special character. Themes related to animals, nature, and veterinary science may inspire some participating groups, and the school's student community sometimes participates in the parade.

Activities for All Ages

True to its family-friendly and popular spirit, the Carnaval de Maisons-Alfort offers activities for all ages. Children can enjoy specific activities (face painting, mask workshops, outdoor games, puppet shows) while adults can enjoy musical entertainment and the conviviality of the association stands. All this takes place in a warm and welcoming atmosphere that characterizes neighborhood carnivals.

Finale and Tradition

The day concludes with a festive gathering featuring music, street entertainment, and the traditional burning of the Carnival King (Bonhomme Carnaval), a symbolic ritual of spring's victory over winter. A moment of strong social cohesion that joyfully closes this day of collective celebration.