Carnaval de Saint-Leu-la-Forêt

Carnival in the forest town

Saint-Leu-la-Forêt, a residential and wooded town in the Val-d'Oise nestled against the Montmorency regional forest, celebrates its Carnival every spring in a festive and friendly atmosphere. The town, known for its listed church and for having hosted the royal family in the 19th century in its summer château, enthusiastically revives the tradition of popular carnival every year. The parade, which crosses the streets of the town center and sometimes runs along the forest edges, offers a both urban and natural setting for this spring festival.

A colorful parade in the village streets

The Carnaval de Saint-Leu-la-Forêt relies on the active participation of residents and local associations. Weeks in advance, groups of friends, entire families, sports clubs, and cultural associations secretly prepare their costumes and floats. On the day of the parade, the village transforms into a giant stage for a multicolored and joyful spectacle. School children parade as classes, dressed in themed costumes prepared with the complicity of their teachers and parents. Traveling bands and music groups accompany the procession with their catchy rhythms.

The forest as a festive backdrop

The immediate proximity of the Montmorency forest gives the Carnaval de Saint-Leu-la-Forêt a special atmosphere. The tall silhouettes of century-old oaks lining the village streets provide an incomparable natural backdrop for photos and videos of the parade. In early spring, the forest begins to turn green again, the first buds appear on the branches, the birds start singing again — all this natural renewal harmonizes perfectly with the spirit of rebirth and renewal that presides over the carnival tradition.

Activities for the whole family

Beyond the parade, the Carnaval de Saint-Leu-la-Forêt offers a program of family activities that extend the festivities in the town's public spaces. A costume contest with prizes in several categories encourages participants to put effort into their outfits. Games and workshops for children — face painting, mask making, treasure hunt — offer younger attendees age-appropriate activities. Food and drink stalls provide refreshments for participants and extend the celebration in a friendly atmosphere.

Practical information

By car: Saint-Leu-la-Forêt is accessible via the D909 from Paris or Montmorency. Parking is available near the town center.

By public transport: Saint-Leu-la-Forêt station on Transilien line H from Paris-Nord. The station is a few minutes' walk from the town center.

Free admission for the entire carnival.