Medieval Festival of Montlhéry

The Medieval Festival of Montlhéry: the magic of the Middle Ages at the foot of the tower

The town of Montlhéry, in Essonne, possesses an exceptional heritage jewel: its medieval tower, an imposing vestige of a castle built in the 11th century by the lords of Montlhéry. This monument, visible from afar in the plain, has crossed centuries and wars, and continues today to impose its silhouette on the Essonne plateau. It is in this incomparable historical setting that the Medieval Festival of Montlhéry takes place every autumn, a true journey through time.

A whole weekend in the Middle Ages

The festival takes place over two full days, Saturday from 10 am to 11 pm and Sunday from 10 am to 7 pm, offering a dense and varied program that delights young and old alike. Admission is completely free, allowing all families to enjoy the activities freely.

The medieval market is the vibrant heart of the festival: dozens of artisans in period costumes present their crafts and creations — potters, blacksmiths, weavers, illuminators, weapon and armor makers — in a carefully recreated atmosphere of medieval markets. Visitors can buy authentic artisanal products or simply admire the skills of these living history enthusiasts.

Shows and demonstrations all day long

Throughout the weekend, medieval artists perform on stages and in the park's alleys: jugglers, acrobats, entertainers, storytellers, and medieval musicians recreate the ambiance of ancient fairs and lordly courts. Sword fighting demonstrations, with sabers, swords, and axes, are the pride of the historical reenactment groups participating in the event, offering the public the thrill of medieval combat.

Equestrian vaulting — acrobatics on horseback — is one of the program's highlights, demonstrating the unique relationship between humans and horses that characterized medieval society. The medieval circus and fire-eaters delight children, while the reconstruction of a medieval house being built is an educational activity appreciated by all history and ancient techniques enthusiasts.

The medieval fireworks on Saturday evening

The highlight of the show is reserved for Saturday evening at 10 pm: a magnificent pyrotechnic show is launched at nightfall from the medieval tower, illuminating the ramparts and moats in a historical and poetic staging. This unique fire show, which combines the colorful lights of the fireworks with the dark silhouette of the medieval tower, is a magical moment that no one can forget. Thousands of spectators flock to the Parc de la Souche and the castle surroundings to witness this exceptional performance.

Easy access by little train

To facilitate access to the site, the town provides a free tourist train service connecting the Champ de Foire parking lot to the Parc de la Souche. This service allows families and people with reduced mobility to easily access the festival site effortlessly, in a festive and bucolic atmosphere.

The Medieval Festival of Montlhéry is organized by the town's Heritage department, with the valuable help of historical reenactment associations and artists specializing in medieval entertainment. In 2025, it was in its 8th edition, confirming its status as a major cultural event in Essonne.