Festival of Rhododendrons

The Festival of Rhododendrons: a century of festivities at the castle

Since 1925, the Festival of Rhododendrons has been the emblematic event of Châteauneuf-sur-Loire, in the Loiret region. Born from the desire to celebrate the exceptional blooming of the castle park's giant rhododendrons, this popular festival has become a true local institution over the decades, bringing together thousands of visitors each year in a remarkable heritage and botanical setting.

An exceptional botanical setting

The departmental park of the Châteauneuf-sur-Loire castle covers 22 hectares on the banks of the Loire. Originally designed by André Le Nôtre in the 17th century in the French formal garden style, it was extensively redesigned in 1821 by landscape architect Huillard d'Hérou, who transformed it into an English-style park and introduced many exotic species. Today, the park is home to about forty species of remarkable trees and over 217 natural plant species.

The centerpiece of the park is its famous 800-meter long rhododendron alley, lined with centenary specimens boasting spectacular blooms. Each spring, between late May and early June, these giant rhododendrons are adorned with vibrant colors — pink, purple, white, red — offering a striking botanical spectacle that serves as the perfect occasion for the festivities.

A thematic and family-friendly festival

Each edition of the Festival of Rhododendrons revolves around an original theme that colors the entire program. Recent themes reflect the organizers' creativity: Under the Tropics in 2023, Rhodos Go to the Movies in 2024, and 1925-2025: Once Upon a Time... at the Castle for the centenary edition in 2025.

For three days, the estate comes alive with a rich and diverse program:

• Funfair: rides and attractions for all ages in the castle courtyard
• Concerts and shows: DJ set on Friday, live concerts, dance performances, and musical entertainment
• Exhibitions and guided tours: discover the castle, the Orangery, and the Loire River Marine Museum
• Creative workshops: activities for children and adults (pottery, floral art, wooden games)
• Artisan and association village: stands of local artisans, craft demonstrations, tastings
• Carriage rides and strolls through the botanical park
• Fireworks display: Sunday evening fireworks on the banks of the Loire to conclude the festivities

A living heritage on the banks of the Loire

Beyond the festival, the site offers remarkable heritage to discover. The Châteauneuf-sur-Loire castle, one wing of which houses the town hall, also hosts the Musée de la Marine de Loire (Loire River Marine Museum), dedicated to the history of river navigation on the Loire. The Orangery, the terraces overlooking the moats, and the gardens complete this exceptional estate. Since 2011, a new 7-hectare area developed by the Loiret Department connects the park to the Loire River, further enriching this natural and cultural site.

The park is also home to remarkable biodiversity with 68 species of birds, 31 species of butterflies, and 12 different natural habitats, making the Festival of Rhododendrons a celebration that is as much botanical as it is naturalistic.

A popular and free event

Organized by the City of Châteauneuf-sur-Loire with the support of numerous volunteers and local associations, the Festival of Rhododendrons is an entirely free event, open to all audiences. It embodies the festive and friendly spirit of a community proud of its horticultural heritage and its special connection with the Loire River and nature.