Fête de Chars

Chars, Vexin village celebrating

Chars is a historic village in the French Vexin, located in the Aubette valley northwest of the Val-d'Oise. This village of about two thousand inhabitants, crossed by the Aubette and its wetlands, has remarkable architectural heritage with its Renaissance-style church, its old limestone houses from the Vexin region, and its watermills. Its municipal festival is one of the most anticipated summer events by the inhabitants of the village and the many hamlets that make up the commune.

The festival in the historic setting of the village

The Chars festival takes advantage of the exceptional historic and natural setting of the village to offer an authentic popular celebration. The entertainment takes place on the central square, around the Renaissance church, and along the streets of the medieval village. The Saint-Sulpice et Saint-Martin church of Chars, a remarkable example of Renaissance architecture in a rural setting, provides an incomparable architectural backdrop for shows and concerts. The banks of the Aubette, with their meadows and willows, invite pastoral walks between events. This unique setting gives the Chars festival a romantic and picturesque atmosphere that distinguishes it from urban festivals.

The festive program

The Chars festival offers a program typical of the rural festivals of the Vexin. A local producers' market allows visitors to discover the flavors of the Vexin region: cheeses, ciders, jams, honey, and fresh vegetables from surrounding farms. Children's entertainment—inflatable games, face painting, puppet shows—keeps the youngest ones busy in their own area. A pétanque tournament brings adults together in a friendly competition. Exhibitions on the history of the village and the landscapes of the Vexin are presented in the village hall or under a tent. An evening concert and a popular ball conclude the festivities in a joyful atmosphere.

The French Vexin in summer

The Chars festival is an opportunity to discover the French Vexin at its best, in summer, when the ripening wheat fields gild the plateau under the July sun. The Vexin French Regional Natural Park, of which Chars is a part, is one of the largest regional natural parks in Île-de-France. Its open landscapes, preserved villages, manors, and fortified farms constitute an invaluable cultural and natural heritage. Marked hiking trails allow festival visitors to explore the surroundings of the village on foot or by bike to discover the hidden treasures of the Vexin.

Practical information

By car: Chars is accessible via the D983 from Pontoise (approx. 30 km) or via the D14 from Magny-en-Vexin. Parking available at the entrance to the village.

No train service: A car is essential. Carpooling recommended.

Free admission for daytime activities. Meals and the ball may require a fee.